The trip of a lifetime! – Mollee Cheek

As I come back from being abroad, I can’t help but have the utmost gratitude for having the chance to attend this program. Not only was this trip life-changing, but it opened the doors to so many more opportunities and relationships. Coming into this program I wasn’t too sure what to expect, but as it came to an end and I began to reflect I have just learned so much more than I could’ve imagined. I left with a stronger love for America but also with a greater sense of respect and understanding for the amazing cultures of all the countries we visited. Visiting various businesses in each country opened my eyes to the many differences in work culture. Here in America, we have much more of an uptight and fast-paced work environment, whereas many countries are more laid back and value a slower life. It was clear when visiting businesses like the Swiss Paraplegic Center and Design Bridge and Partners, that they’re very team-oriented and work together to accomplish a set goal. These are two completely different businesses yet you can see how each person values one another. In America I often feel like others go to work, get their work done, and leave.  It’s also very much a competition of trying to outwork one another for the purpose of maybe getting a promotion, but a majority of the businesses we visited while abroad seem to encourage collaboration. This was also seen in how the offices we saw were designed. We rarely saw any cubicles as many companies had big tables with lots of space so others could work together. In my opinion, this fosters a more positive environment and could in turn lead to more success. While abroad I also experienced some warm welcomes, but also some stronger personalities. It really is true when people say those in Germany or France are straightforward, and saying “please” and “thank you” wasn’t very common. I’m forever grateful to have gotten to experience a variety of cultures while also learning about many of the differences within the workforce. There’s no doubt that this trip changed my life, and that’s all thanks to Mays Business School and the wonderful staff who led us through it all.