So far, the global business program has been an incredibly engaging, enriching, and educational experience that I am so incredibly thankful to have had the opportunity to participate in. I came on the Southeast Asia business trip with 32 other students, many of whom are in a similar position to me. We want to seek out adventure and take every opportunity we can afford to learn more about ourselves, grow in our understanding of different business areas, and have a good time along the way.
Prior to the trip, we deep-dived into different subjects as research groups to inform ourselves and one another about information pertinent to the cultures, businesses, and places we’d be traveling to, but also to get to know one another. It was a great way to prepare for the trip and made it all much less daunting. While in Singapore we’ve gotten to learn about their position in global trade and their importance in supply chain operations, what makes Singapore an attractive place for business headquarters, issues involving manufacturing and employment, the importance of sustainability in their practices, and how regions in Southeast Asia are impacted by global politics. My understanding of business in the region has been expanded on this trip, and I can only imagine what more we’ll come to know during our week in Thailand.
Arriving in Singapore and learning about and exploring the city has in many ways been the coolest thing I’ve ever gotten to experience. It is a city and country so unlike the US in its heritage and way of life. We have been able to go out on tours of museums, the bay, and the city, learn how to make local food, and shop in the many diverse food, clothing, and souvenir areas across the island. The mixing of cultures from China, Malaysia, India, the Middle East, and Europe has created something unique here that cannot be replicated elsewhere. It is a combination of traditional and modern that balances to allow their culture and economy to thrive. The city is clean, vibrant, safe, and full of life everywhere we go. They protect this with laws and the people place a lot of value and pride in their country. Truly the mix of group excursions and personal exploration that has been made available on this trip has been such a fun way to allow us to seek out parts of the culture we want to know better and take greater responsibility for what we want to take away from this trip.
In conclusion, the experience of exploring Singapore has already opened my eyes to new ways of thinking about business, sustainability, and cultural integration. I’m excited to continue my journey, especially with the lessons I hope to carry forward into my future career.
