Blackburn Institute

Blackburn Fellow Published

August 11, 2006

The book Don’t Call Me Gringa!: Living and Learning as an American in Venezuela is about to hit the shelves and when it does it will the first full book published by a Blackburn Institute fellow. Emily Smith Llinas, a 2000-2001 Blackburn Fellow and UA journalism graduate, documents her unique experience as a young American studying to become the first foreign student at La Universidad Central de Venezuela to earn a Master’s degree in International Relations and learning to adapt in a dramatically different culture.

In an interview, Emily stated that her ability to be successful in both the academic work and cultural adoption can be directly attributable to the skills she gained while studying at the Capstone. She has written news columns for the Birmingham News, Dateline Alabama, and the Crimson White. As a Student Fellow, she embraced Dr. Blackburn’s passion for people from diverse backgrounds, specifically citing his successful efforts in the peaceful racial integration of the University. Dr. Blackburn’s vision has inspired her to be innovative, think outside the box, and question “why we as Americans think the way we do.” It is because of her ability to accept and adapt to adverse, foreign circumstances, that she has been able to gain this meaningful experience.

Emily now lives in Houston, Texas with her husband, a native Columbian. She works for the University of Texas Medical Branch as a special programs director in helping prepare logistically for future disasters in the area. Emily has no set future plans other than more international travel. Her book is now available for purchase at http://www.dontcallmegringa.com and will also be available in bookstore nationwide within weeks.

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