I have never been out of the country before, so this study abroad experience has already been life-changing for me. I was really curious to see and experience different cultures firsthand, since I’ve grown up entirely within the U.S. So far, we’ve visited London and Paris, and both cities have shown me just how diverse and rich the world is. I am excited to continue my journey here and learn more about different cultures. In London, I was immediately struck by the beautiful architecture and how well the city blends historical sites with modern elements. We went on bike tours, visited the London Eye, and toured The Parliament. Learning about the British government was especially eye-opening. Their parliamentary system is so different from the U.S. political structure, and it made me realize how many ways a country can function effectively. People also seemed more reserved and formal compared to typical American friendliness, but still polite and welcoming. Paris, on the other hand, gave me more of a culture shock. The language barrier is real, most people speak French, and it made me realize how much I take easy communication for granted in the U.S. Still, I’ve loved the beauty of the city. We did a boat tour on our first night, and seeing the Eiffel Tower in person was surreal. The pace here also feels slower and more relaxed, especially when it comes to meals and daily life. From this experience, I hope to gain a better understanding of global business, but also of how culture shapes people’s everyday lives and decisions. I want to become more adaptable, open-minded, and confident in international settings. This first week has already stretched me in the best ways, and I’m excited to see how much more I grow during the rest of the program.
Center for International Business Studies Blog