Getting the chance to study abroad on the Europe Marketing Trip was an experience that I will never forget. Traveling to seven countries, and multiple business and cultural visits in between, I learned more about the world in 28 days than I had in my entire life. While a country such as London was practically the “European United States,” places like France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Monaco, and Germany were wildly different from home. While the sights were breathtaking in every corner we visited, the way of life was even more astounding.
Being introduced to the many different businesses while abroad helped me to gain a better understanding that it’s not much different from what we have here in the States. One difference worth mentioning is their level of specialization. Each company we visited specialized in one particular area, whether it be marketing/branding or perfumes. While one could argue that we have that here, over there it felt more prestigious. I remember discussing with one of the sales representatives at Fragonard, a perfumery, how they sell their products. For the most part, they were very selective of who can sell their products. They didn’t let just any retail outlet or mall sell their fragrances, something most brands cannot say the same.
Beyond company visits, experiencing a culture other than our own was eye-opening to say the least. I remember stepping off of the coach in France and being thrown off by everything. From a foreign dialect, to not being able to read any of the signs, I was holding on dearly to my language card and google translate as I tried to navigate my way through the city. While some shopkeepers were very kind and welcoming, others were less so, hinting at their distaste for tourists. I found this to be a common theme throughout my trip, but understood why after experiencing other obnoxious tourists in a quiet French coffee shop. I now understand that learning to respect one’s culture is almost more important than fully understanding it. Even though I did not know French, being respectful and understanding that there’s a language barrier will allow you to immerse yourself without offending anyone.
My time abroad will feel like a dream for the rest of my life. All of the memories, friends, and experiences have changed my perspective on not only business and culture, but life itself. I’ve learned to appreciate every moment for what it is, whether it’s a rainy day in Austria or a sunny day in London, because our time is too precious to waste any of it away.
Thank you, CIBS, for the greatest adventure of my life. If there’s any advice I can give the next fellow Aggie, it will be to STUDY ABROAD!
