Howdy!
I have just embarked on my first-ever trip beyond the borders of the United States, immersing myself in an exciting study abroad program in Spain. Over the next month, I will be immersing myself in an entirely different culture and lifestyle as I explore the incredible city of Barcelona. It is only the beginning, but I am already loving the experience of seeing the city through the program’s planned activities and my own student adventures. In just a short time, I have gotten to see how beautiful this city truly is from its historic architecture and bustling plazas to its colorful streets and stunning waterfront views. The classes I have started also seem to be very insightful and are already expanding my knowledge of how business is done outside the US. One of the first cultural differences I have noticed is how people in Spain approach their daily routines compared to those in the U.S. The pace of life here is noticeably slower, with people taking the time to enjoy their meals and prioritize social interactions, rather than focusing intensely on constant productivity. This creates a very relaxed and welcoming environment, making it easy to feel at ease in the city. On top of that, the architecture here feels older and more charming compared to the modern, angular, and sharp designs commonly seen in the U.S. With a full month of experiences still ahead, I am excited about the many sights, cultural moments, and business visits I will get to encounter. Coming into this experience, I was eager to see what life was like outside the United States. Having never left the country before, I knew this program would be the perfect opportunity. I look forward to continuing to expand my understanding of international business and gaining firsthand insight into how different cultures approach work, relationships, and everyday life.
