• What is the most important thing you have learned about yourself on this study Abroad? Share the pictures, people, and stories who helped you learn that lesson.
The most important thing I have learned about myself is how long it takes me to adapt. It took me a couple weeks this trip to really get used to my environment, from the stores to even something simple like the bathroom. Once I got used to it, I was able to move around France just fine, and much better than I thought I was able to. I have learned over this trip that it takes me a while to get used to a new environment.
• What is the most important thing you have learned about (1) the EU, (2) Global Leadership, and (3) CQ while you were studying abroad? Share the pictures, people, stories, and insights you gained.
The most important thing I have learned about the EU is the significance of its creation. The continent of Europe has suffered a long history of war between almost every country that has ever existed within it. The EU after a long time finally united most of these countries which was a monumental task in its entire history. Regarding Global Leadership the most important lesson I learned was to be adaptable. If you are headed somewhere else in the world you are almost guaranteed to be faced with new situations that you did not plan for. It is imperative that you are able to change how you conduct your business or leadership in order to fit the new issue at hand. Finally, I learned the most important part of CQ is being open minded. All four main pillars of having CQ involve some sort of openness to change and different perspectives. I have found that is most important when dealing with Cultural Intelligence.
• What would you like to tell (and show) an Aggie who is considering taking a CIBS study abroad in Europe. What would they hear, what would they see, what would they experience?
Doing a study abroad trip is a one of a kind experience. You would get to hear all about the country you visit and learn more about Europe than you ever have. The continent has a rich history that goes unnoticed by many Americans, and study abroad teaches you all about it. You will see so many beautiful views and buildings while on this trip. I saw plenty of wonders that I would never even think about seeing before this trip, like a castle in Strasbourg and the Swiss Alps during a weekend trip. Taking a study abroad trip will help you experience another part of the world in many different ways. Day to day activities, the food, even your class will be different from what you remember at A&M. Having all these new experiences gives you a new perspective that helps you grow monumentally in just a month or a few weeks.
