I hadn’t fully grasped how much of the world was out there waiting to be explored—how different cultures, perspectives, and lifestyles could shape my understanding of life beyond the boundaries I had always known. This experience abroad has been eye-opening in ways I couldn’t have anticipated in my earlier life in America. Being in a new country, where the language, customs and daily life differ from everything I’ve ever known, has forced me to rethink what it means to be adaptable. I’ve learned that growth doesn’t always come in moments of comfort or familiarity but in those times when you push yourself into the unknown.
Outside of school, some of my biggest interests include fashion, finance and exploring how business intersects with everyday life. I’ve always been fascinated by how global trends influence local economies and vice versa, which is part of what drew me to study in Europe: I wanted to see firsthand how business and finance operate in an international context and how different cultures approach work, life and community. I also enjoy playing volleyball and running, so you can often catch me watching or doing a sport in my free time! These sports have always been a fun way for me to stay active and connect with others, whether that is at home or abroad.
Overall, studying abroad has opened doors I never thought possible and has profoundly reshaped my perspective. This experience has allowed me to dive into a world of unfamiliar customs, environments, and learning opportunities, and these experiences have pushed me to grow in unexpected ways. Being abroad has also offered me a sense of independence and adaptability that I couldn’t have gained otherwise.
