Moondil engaged in purposeful exploration—traveling the world for 365 days—after graduating in May.

Her project, “Journey through Rhythmaculture: Grieving and Rejoicing through Indigenous Drumming and Dancing,” took her through Germany, Morocco, Spain, Peru, Ghana, Suriname and The Netherlands.

This journey, for Moondil, is not just one of exploring countries and cultures.  She explained, “My Watson project entails a journey both inwards and outwards, concurrently towards myself and others. I am humbled and thrilled to receive such an honor.”

Moondil has experienced sorrow and joy and felt them “through the indigenous music and dance of [her] motherland, Bangladesh.” “I have chosen to explore these art forms across linguistic, cultural, and geographic borders,” she noted, “A region is considered to have a rhythmaculture, when its culture fully embraces its traditional music and dance in every aspect of life. Delving into the rich and ancient tradition of drumming and dancing I will gain firsthand exposure to the world’s most remarkable performers while learning the cathartic powers of rhythmaculture at a global level.”

Interested in applying for the Watson Fellowship? Visit https://legacy.berea.edu/cie/thomas-j-watson-fellowship/ to learn about deadlines, eligibility, and how to apply!