Throughout my time in Europe, I learned so many great things that not only professionally but also personally enlightened me. The most efficient experience of the tour was the business tours that we organized. We had the opportunity to visit various European businesses, ranging from the large industries to the small family businesses. Each company offered a unique insight into how companies operate differently depending on their location, culture, and history. It was fascinating to see how success is achieved differently internationally.
One of the highlights of these trips was watching gondola and violin makers craft their masterpieces. To see it with their own eyes was an eye-opener as it revealed the great talent, dedication, and expertise involved in making such delicate and beautiful pieces of art. They still make it in traditional manners and with virtually no power equipment, a far cry from United States’ power-tool-driven assembly lines. This experience instilled in me the appreciation of the value of manually crafted goods and age-old customs that continue to exist in Europe.
Living overseas also gave a better understanding of just how much difference the world really had to offer. Each nation had a different language, a different culture, and a different lifestyle, but people were generally friendly and open to Americans. Hanging out in not-so-touristy areas especially allowed us to be more authentic in our interaction with local people and customs. My misconceptions about these countries gradually shifted as I gained a better appreciation for their cultures.
Overall, this trip gave me the chance to fully immerse myself in environments far more varied than those I knew before. It was an experience I will never forget and that I learned far more about international business but also the importance of being sensitive and adaptive to culture. I will always value the opportunity to learn and grow through such a fulfilling experience.