My time in Barcelona has been transformative in the sense that I was not expecting. I expected to be awestruck by the beauty of the culture and the lifestyle I was able to experience, which of course, I was, but at the same time, I found myself even more surprised by all I have learned within the walls of the classroom. Our two professors shared their stories as they taught their courses, ultimately making the trip what it was. While I could have learned about the European Union and what all makes up international business in Texas, I believe I received a richer understanding by being in Barcelona and hearing firsthand from people who are a part of it and conducting business internationally. Our professors both brought in guest speakers as well to hear multiple sides and experiences?my favorite was when our professor brought in someone to talk about the Euro that had an opposing stance to her. For our international business class, we had the opportunity to work hand in hand with a nonprofit and give them insight into what we thought their business could improve upon.
Outside of class, our group went on multiple guided tours where we learned how each business operated and how many steps went into each moving piece. Altogether, my time inside the classroom learning about business helped my time outside the classroom when I had the chance to engage with individuals in Spain. It gave me a broader perspective and more of an understanding than what I had before of the people here. I no longer see in the 2D dimension I saw in before. My perspective has been broadened and I see so much value in the differences between my culture and the culture here. I am thankful that this experience has not been what I expected for it surpassed that idea in every which way.
