This global business program has been an incredibly meaningful experience. One that I know will stay with me for a long time. Over the past two weeks, I’ve had the opportunity not only to explore beautiful cities across Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, and Italy, but also to gain valuable insight into how businesses operate within different cultural and economic environments. From large global corporations like Education First and Swarovski to small, local businesses like a gondola maker and a violin craftsman, I saw firsthand how passion, tradition, and innovation come together to shape global markets. While the big companies emphasized branding, efficiency, and global strategy, the smaller businesses emphasized artistry and culture. It made me realize that no matter the size, a business reflects the people and environment around it.
I came into this program without many expectations. I didn’t have a checklist of landmarks I needed to see or a clear picture of what the business visits would involve. I was simply excited to travel and experience new places. I thought I would enjoy the sights, try new foods, and learn more about business along the way.
One of the most surprising parts of the trip was how much I enjoyed learning from our tour guide and exploring without a plan. Juliet’s House in Verona was the only place I specifically hoped to visit, and although it was unfortunately closed, that small disappointment didn’t take away from the overall experiences of the trip. Instead, I found myself becoming more curious, more flexible, and more open than I ever expected.
This experience has truly expanded the way I view business, travel, and my own future. I now see myself pursuing a career that allows me to work across cultures and possibly even live abroad one day. What began as simple excitement for travel has grown into an experience that reshaped the way I think about the world.
