Looking back on my time in the Europe Marketing Study Abroad program, I can honestly say it was even more impactful than I imagined. I came in with high expectations, especially after that amazing first week in London, but the full trip ended up being way more than I ever expected. Getting to visit cities like Paris, Nice, Monaco, Verona, Innsbruck, Munich, Fussen, and Lucerne gave me such a wide range of experiences. Each city taught me something new about business, culture, and myself.
One of the biggest takeaways for me was realizing just how much culture shapes the way business is done. I used to think that business practices were mostly the same everywhere, but being in different countries showed me how important it is to understand local values and norms. In Germany and Switzerland, for example, things were very structured and efficient. Everything started on time, people got straight to the point, and everything was super organized. On the other hand, in France and Italy, the focus was more on building relationships first, and there was a more relaxed, people-first approach. These experiences showed me that international marketing is about more than just translating a message. It is about truly understanding the people you’re trying to reach.
On a personal level, this trip helped me grow a lot. I got more comfortable navigating public transportation, adjusting to new customs (like how tipping works differently), and stepping out of my comfort zone. It also made me a lot more confident in unfamiliar environments and open to new perspectives.
Overall, this study abroad experience opened my eyes to how big and diverse the world really is. It made me more curious, adaptable, and excited to keep exploring. I now see global business not just as a career path, but as a way to connect with people and ideas across cultures, which is something I’ll carry with me moving forward.
