Bridging Code and Culture: A Global Perspective
When I began my journey at the University of Alaska Anchorage, my path seemed clearly defined by logic and algorithms. As a Computer Science major, I was prepared to dive deep into the world of code. However, I knew that technology does not exist in a vacuum; it is a tool used by people across the globe. This realization led me to the Global & Multicultural Studies track of the Honors College, a decision that has massively shaped my undergraduate experience by bridging the gap between technical expertise and cultural fluency.
My passion for German language and culture became the cornerstone of this journey. Earning the Seal of Biliteracy and being named German Student of the Year in high school were just the beginning. At UAA, I didn't just study the language; I lived it. Serving as the President and Treasurer of the UAA German Culture Club, I had the privilege of organizing university-wide events that brought students together to celebrate cultural diversity. These leadership roles taught me that effective communication transcends language barriers, a skill that is invaluable in the collaborative world of software engineering.
One of my most impactful experiences was volunteering as a counselor at the ASD Nordlichtlager, a German immersion camp for high school students. Helping young students navigate a new language and culture mirrored my own challenges in learning complex systems. It reinforced the idea that patience, empathy, and clear guidance are universal tools for teaching and leadership. This service, combined with my academic pursuit of a German minor, allowed me to view my technical work through a human-centric lens.
The Honors College challenged me to integrate these two worlds. Whether I was building "Pls Give," a global multiplayer game on the Solana blockchain, or discussing cultural nuances in a German seminar, I was constantly applying the critical thinking and adaptability fostered by the Global & Multicultural Studies track. My time as the AK Chapter President for Stand With Crypto further exemplified this, as I worked to engage local communities in a global digital conversation.
As I look forward to a career in building distributed applications, I carry with me more than just technical skills. I carry the perspective of a global citizen, honed by my time in the Honors College. I am deeply grateful to the faculty, my peers in the German program, and the Honors community for supporting me. My journey has proven that the most powerful innovations happen at the intersection of disciplines, and I am excited to continue building bridges between people and technology.
Best regards,
Hunter Fleischhacker