How did your study abroad experience influence your career path?
My time abroad solidified my desire to work in the international space and to potentially work abroad. Although I work in D.C., my work is focused on foreign markets and helping promote U.S. exports abroad, in a best-of-both-worlds scenario.
What’s the most important thing you learned from studying abroad?
Adapting. Learning a new culture, meeting new people, becoming comfortable with speaking a foreign language showed me how high my capacity was for adapting to new environments and made me feel comfortable with the prospect of doing it again.
What are you doing now and how does it relate to your study abroad experience?
I am now an International Trade Specialist at the International Trade Administration in the U.S. Department of Commerce and my study abroad experience helped solidify my interest in international work.
What advice would you give to prospective study abroad students?
Study abroad! Do it, even if you're afraid. It will be an invaluable experience and one you will never forget; it will shape you into the person you want to become and will teach you skills no classroom could ever give you.
