It is crazy to think that I wrote the first reflection 4 weeks ago. Our time in Barcelona has flown by, which is remarkable considering how many things have happened since my last blog entry. It will be difficult to even begin to summarize everything that I have learned so instead I will focus on the three main realizations I have had in relation to international business: It is very difficult to communicate with people from such different contexts of life, ignoring the endless possibilities abroad is both unprofitable and reductive, and investing in the future of education is a worth-while cause.
In my first reflection, I noted that I would love to improve my ability to converse with locals by learning the language. As my time has progressed, I have realized that communication is much more complicated and multifaceted than just knowing foreign vocabulary and grammar. The smallest differences in customary personality and humor can be completely lost in translation. Body language, figures of speech, pop culture references, irony, and so many other subtleties influence conversation. Whether it has been asking questions to tour guides, conversing with local business owners, or even striking up conversations with a barista, every interaction I have had in Barcelona has taught me that international business brings extreme and unique challenges.
The second thing I am walking away with is an understanding that ignoring the possibility of international options is unprofitable practice for a business, and reductive for your personal life. Visiting the Port at the beginning of this trip and discussing the different theories of international trade throughout Dr. Panina?s class has made it blatantly obvious (?claro?) that a global-minded approach to trade is paramount. Also, the incredible memories and perspectives I am walking away with have shown me that a life well lived includes traveling the world.
The last takeaway I have had is how important education is for people individually, but also for our nation collectively. Having been blessed with the gift of education thus far in my life made this experience infinitely more enjoyable. Being able to tie in lessons I have learned from high school history courses, and college economics classes have made all of my experiences more meaningful and engaging. In addition to this realization, our class discussions on the importance of labor productivity for GDP have made me realize that an educated society is a society better equipped to sustain itself and prosper.
