Coming from an exclusively U.S.-centered mindset, it was challenging at first to understand the cultural differences between how Americans and Europeans conduct business. In fact, before arriving, I had no idea there were any substantial differences or cultural barriers to overcome in order to better understand this new environment.
One of the first major things I noticed was how much friendlier people were than I had expected. I had always believed the French to be somewhat reserved and not particularly warm toward strangers. Contrary to that belief, I rarely encountered anyone who was unkind or unwilling to help when I appeared to need assistance. Of course, not everyone I met in France was friendly, but I realized that I had based my assumptions on the actions of a few, rather than on the country as a whole. This was something I had to overcome throughout my trip: not everyone fits a stereotype, and each person has unique experiences and attitudes that aren’t necessarily representative of a broader culture.
Another challenge I faced was understanding how business is conducted across different European nation-states. I initially assumed that because of the EU’s framework of free trade, there must be a uniform set of standards for doing business across member countries. This turned out to be far from the truth. We learned about real-world examples of companies refusing to do business in certain countries due to incompatible regulations or cultural differences, revealing just how complex cross-border business in Europe can be.
My time abroad has really changed the way I view international business and cultural differences. I feel like I have a pretty solid understanding that doing business across borders involves far more than just economic agreements. International business requires cultural awareness, adaptability, and humility. My initial impressions, shaped by stereotypes and a limited worldview, were challenged and reshaped through real experiences with real people. I’ve learned that no culture is homogenous and that effective communication and mutual respect are essential in any global context. I’m coming home with not just academic knowledge, but a personal transformation in how I perceive and interact with the world.