Reflecting on my time in Croatia, I realize just how much I have learned about conducting business and engaging with individuals in a different cultural context. While I regret not learning much Croatian, this experience has still profoundly impacted my perspective on global business and personal interactions.
To begin, this was the best month of my life. I have very few notes on what could be better but I will try and say both the positive and negative.
One, I had hoped for more unique culinary experiences. The food, while good, didn’t offer the distinct flavors I had anticipated. I did not have one “Croatian” dish. However, my favorite routine was the morning ritual with my roommate Becca. We’d get the MOST amazing sandwiches from the bakery across the street and enjoy them with cappuccinos at a nearby bar. I looked forward to it everyday.
One of the highlights of my trip was a weekend in Split, which was vibrant and full of life. It was something my group of friends and I booked ourselves and was not included in the cost of the trip. We also spent a couple of days in Bosnia (which was included in our trip), which turned out to be an incredible experience. The food in Bosnia was unique and delicious, and the culture was fascinating.
I haven’t spoken about the studying part of my study abroad just yet. I loved the way our professors structured it. There were no tests (so no studying) and instead, we consulted with representatives of the municipality of Neum, Bosnia. This was so nice as I feel like I truly got to experience Croatia instead of studying inside and I learned a lot from the people of Neum.
In conclusion, the month I spent in Croatia was undoubtedly the best month of my life. I made some of my best friends, and we shared experiences that will stay with me forever. This experience has made me more adaptable, open-minded, and appreciative of the diverse world we live in.