One of the biggest lessons I learned while on my study abroad trip is that I can overcome my fears. Before my trip to Italy, I was scared of the unknown, so the thought of going to another country alone and encountering a completely different atmosphere sounded more like a nightmare than fun. However, looking back, this journey has shown me just how resilient and adaptable I can be.
After reflecting on my experiences in Italy, I hope to use the valuable lessons I learned throughout my college career. Knowing that I can conquer the fears that stop me from reaching my full potential gives me the courage to continue taking on new challenges and opportunities. For the remainder of my time at Texas A&M, I look forward to getting comfortable with being uncomfortable by pushing myself to get involved in activities that I wouldn’t normally do. I can use the student organization I am a part of as a community to grow personally, for example, by taking on leadership roles or participating in more service trips with the group.
In addition to growing professionally, I want to use my experience studying abroad to help me in my professional career. No matter which area of business you decide to pursue, it will always require adaptability, for example, when working through high-stress situations or doing something for the first time. My study abroad experience has helped boost my confidence, which I will transfer to my professional career when tackling new projects, working with a diverse range of peers, and staying composed during stressful situations. These new habits will allow me to grow as an individual, open new professional opportunities, and help make advancements in the world.
Overall, I am thankful for my experiences during my study abroad because I believe they will be transformative for my future. They have given me the assurance that I am capable of thriving in environments that I never thought would be possible and have made me excited to try new challenges within my academic and professional career.