International Experiences (ISP)
What is the International Scholars Program? The International Scholars Program (ISP) is a graduation medallion program at the University of Florida that helps students develop intercultural competence on a personal and professional level. Throughout the past four years at UF, I have gained many diverse cultural experiences abroad as well as explored new perspectives domestically
As a member of the International Scholars Program, I have immersed myself in studying the Spanish language and culture, which has significantly enriched my academic and personal growth. This program has provided me with a unique opportunity to explore and engage with diverse cultural experiences within and beyond the classroom.
Throughout my time in the program, I have dedicated myself to studying the Spanish language through formal coursework and actively participating in Hispanic and Spanish heritage events on and off campus.
In the summer of 2023, I took my learning further by studying abroad in Seville, Spain. This experience was transformative, as it allowed me to immerse myself fully in the Spanish language and culture. Living and studying in Seville, I had the chance to explore the city's vibrant history, architecture, and traditions while honing my language skills through daily interactions with locals. The study abroad program also provided me with a deeper appreciation for the nuances of Spanish culture, which has greatly informed my perspectives as a global citizen.
Even after returning from Spain, I have continued to engage in Spanish cultural events and activities on campus to maintain and further improve my language proficiency. My ongoing participation in these events is driven by my commitment to graduating as a designated International Scholar. This distinction recognizes my dedication to global learning and cross-cultural competence.
In the Fall of 2023, I completed my Spanish minor, a milestone reflecting my academic achievements and passion for the Spanish language. This accomplishment has not only strengthened my linguistic abilities but has also prepared me to engage with Spanish-speaking communities more meaningfully.
Looking ahead, I am excited to continue building on these experiences and applying the skills and knowledge I have gained as I pursue future opportunities in international settings.
Global Immersion Experience MIB (Perú)
Through my experience in the GIE 2024 Fall consulting project in Lima, Peru, I had the unique opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture and collaborate directly with a Peruvian business firm and local artisans. Working with Sissai, a prominent Peruvian jewelry company known for its handcrafted pieces, offered an invaluable glimpse into the intricacies of international markets and the ways cultural values influence business practices.
My class and I conducted extensive market research to support Sissai’s potential expansion into the U.S. market, analyzing consumer trends and cultural differences in buying behavior. We spent time in Sissai’s workshop and studio, observing the intricate craftsmanship involved in creating each piece and learning about the significance of each design in Peruvian culture. Meeting and engaging with the artisans gave us a deeper understanding of the passion and artistry behind their work and the value placed on authenticity in Peruvian business culture.
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Additionally, collaborating with local business owners helped us understand Lima’s unique economic and historical landscape. We learned firsthand how Peru’s high-context culture shapes consumer preferences and business interactions, highlighting the importance of relationship-building and trust in Latin American markets. At the end of the week, my group presented a comprehensive market research analysis, offering Sissai recommendations on consumer engagement and marketing tailored to the U.S. market. This experience enhanced my knowledge of international business strategies and enriched my appreciation for cultural nuances and the ways they impact business on a global scale.
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I am abundantly grateful to Sissai for this incredible immersion opportunity, which deepened my understanding of the dynamic Latin American market and helped me develop practical skills for future cross-cultural business engagements.
Countries Visited
My travels across countries such as the USA, Spain, Mexico, Canada, Portugal, Morocco, the United Kingdom, and Peru have been transformative, each contributing uniquely to my understanding of cultural diversity and adaptability. These experiences have allowed me to move beyond the role of an observer to become an active participant, engaging with local traditions, languages, and customs, which has broadened my perspectives and strengthened my ability to adapt to various cultural environments.
In Spain, for example, I immersed myself in the language and everyday life, engaging with the local community in Seville. This experience taught me how language opens doors to deeper cultural insights and allowed me to navigate social situations more comfortably and respectfully.
In Morocco, I was introduced to entirely new customs, where I learned the significance of communal values, respect, and tradition in daily life. The importance of hospitality stood out as locals welcomed me and experienced firsthand how essential generosity and openness are within Moroccan culture. This experience required me to quickly adapt to different social expectations, further refining my cultural sensitivity and adaptability.
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Similarly, in Mexico, Perú, and Spain, I found that each community has a profound connection to its heritage and history, celebrated through vibrant festivals, cuisine, and local art. Engaging with local artisans and community leaders, I developed an appreciation for their traditions and the values that shape their identities. Each conversation and encounter taught me the importance of honoring different ways of life and recognizing that each culture offers unique ways of seeing the world. These experiences enriched my capacity for empathy and deepened my understanding of cultural nuances as I observed, witnessed, and engaged with the people around me in each new country.
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I am looking forward to my upcoming trip to Iceland in December 2024, I am excited to continue this journey of cultural exploration. I anticipate learning more about Nordic traditions, landscapes, and the Icelandic way of life. Through each experience, I have grown personally, gaining resilience, curiosity, and open-mindedness, which I carry into my academic and professional life. My travels have given me the tools to engage meaningfully in diverse environments. I am eager to apply these skills to foster inclusive and culturally sensitive interactions wherever I go.
Reflection
The International Scholars Program (ISP) at the University of Florida has been one of the most transformative experiences of my academic journey, shaping my worldview, cultural understanding, and ability to engage with global issues thoughtfully and effectively. This program offered me the chance to broaden my global awareness, engage with intercultural issues, and develop skills in communication, adaptability, and critical thinking. From academic coursework to international experiences, ISP has influenced my personal and professional life, expanding my understanding of our world's interconnectedness.
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A core aspect of my experience was the opportunity to study abroad in Seville, Spain, which immersed me fully in the Spanish language and culture. Living in Seville was more than just a language-learning experience; it was a deep dive into another culture's history, customs, and daily life. This immersion required me to adapt, navigate language barriers, and develop an understanding of cultural subtleties. For instance, one of my early experiences involved explaining American holidays to my host family. This seemingly simple conversation made me realize how important it is to bridge cultural perspectives to foster understanding. My time in Seville helped me realize that effective communication goes beyond language proficiency; it requires an awareness of cultural norms and a willingness to approach conversations with empathy and curiosity.
In addition to the personal growth I experienced, my study abroad experience allowed me to learn about Spain's role within the broader European Union, its complex history, and how these factors shape modern Spanish identity. This understanding of how historical and cultural influences impact a country's perspective has proven valuable in my academic studies and my professional aspirations in international business. The experience helped me to recognize that cultural values shape business practices, an insight that has become increasingly relevant as I consider my career goals.
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The GIE 2024 Fall business consulting project in Lima, Peru, was a particularly significant component of my ISP journey. This experience was an immersive look into Latin American markets and their unique cultural dynamics, allowing me to gain hands-on experience in international marketing and consulting. Working with Sissai, a Peruvian jewelry company that values cultural heritage and artisanal craftsmanship, my team and I conducted an in-depth market research project to help inform Sissai's potential expansion into the U.S. market. This market research required understanding Peru's high-context culture, where business relies heavily on relationships, trust, and an appreciation of heritage.
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Throughout the project, I had the opportunity to meet and work closely with local artisans, learning firsthand how deeply Sissai's jewelry production is rooted in Peruvian culture. Observing the artisans at work and understanding their commitment to preserving Peruvian traditions gave me insight into cultural identity's value in business. This experience was transformative, demonstrating that successful business strategies must respect cultural values while adapting to new markets. The insights I gained on this project strengthened my ability to conduct research and collaborate with diverse teams, skills that will be essential in my future career.
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On campus, I have actively engaged with Hispanic and Spanish heritage events, which deepened my understanding of cultural diversity and provided additional context to my Spanish and international business studies. One memorable event included a panel discussion on cultural identity and assimilation, resonating with my experiences abroad. Hearing different perspectives from students of Hispanic heritage challenged me to think critically about cultural preservation, adaptation, and the ways in which cultures influence each other. This engagement helped me understand the experiences of others and highlighted the importance of building a culturally inclusive community.
A recurring theme throughout my ISP experience has been resilience and adaptability, especially in the face of unfamiliar challenges. While studying in Seville, I encountered language barriers that forced me to rely on non-verbal communication and quickly adapt to new social norms. Similarly, I had to navigate the complexities of a high-context culture in Peru, where interactions are less direct, and understanding social cues is essential. These experiences taught me the importance of patience, openness, and flexibility, which have strengthened my confidence and ability to thrive in diverse environments.
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The impact of the ISP program on my career aspirations cannot be understated. Pursuing a degree in Business Administration and a Master's in International Business, I am excited to apply the intercultural competencies I have gained to a career that requires global awareness and cultural sensitivity. Understanding the importance of cultural nuances, relationship-building, and effective communication will be invaluable as I navigate international markets and work with diverse teams. This program has prepared me to contribute to projects that require an understanding of cultural context, an appreciation for diversity, and the ability to think critically about global issues.
Reflecting on my ISP experience, I am grateful for how it has shaped me as a student and a global citizen. Each experience, from language learning, international coursework, study abroad, and campus events, has enriched my understanding of international and intercultural issues. I have gained communication, resilience, and adaptability skills, which will serve me well in my future endeavors. Most importantly, this program has inspired me to continue engaging with the world thoughtfully and commit to making meaningful contributions in whatever global context I find myself in. I plan to engage in international business consulting work upon graduation, where I can continue interacting and learning about global cultures.