As I prepare to study abroad in Strasbourg, France, I find myself reflecting on how much this opportunity means to me—not just academically, but personally and culturally as well. This will be my first time leaving the United States, and as I continue studying business, I know this experience will open my eyes in ways that go far beyond the classroom. I’ll be taking two courses: business law and international business. I’m excited to see how these subjects are taught in a European context, especially in a city like Strasbourg, which sits right on the border of France and Germany and plays a key role in European politics and international institutions. I’ve read that the classroom dynamic in France can be more formal and theory-driven compared to the U.S., where we often focus on participation, quick thinking, and hands-on application. I know adjusting to that difference will be a challenge, but I see it as a chance to grow academically and push myself to think differently.
More importantly, I hope this study abroad experience will help me build cultural intelligence—the ability to understand, respect, and communicate across cultures. In today’s global business world, I believe this skill is just as important as anything I’ll learn from a textbook. I want to understand how French people approach work, leadership, communication, and even identity. I’m especially curious about how race, gender, and nationality are experienced differently in France. I know I might face uncomfortable or eye-opening moments, but I welcome those experiences if they help me grow into a more aware, confident, and compassionate person.
This program isn’t just about getting academic credit—it’s about learning how to navigate the world. I want to come back with a broader perspective, stronger communication skills, and a deeper understanding of how business connects people across borders. I’m also looking forward to building friendships, exploring new cities, and experiencing cultures I’ve only read about. By the end of this journey, I hope to not only be more globally minded, but also more grounded in who I am and what kind of leader I want to become.
