Throughout my academic journey, the value of a global perspective has been made clear, particularly through my study abroad experiences and internships. As a first-generation student, I’ve learned the importance of stepping outside of my own assumptions and biases when engaging with different cultures and people. In my travels to India, France, the UAE, and Thailand, I’ve encountered various perspectives that challenged my preconceived notions, especially regarding business practices, communication styles, and values. Each experience pushed me to critically examine my own beliefs and adapt my approach to problem-solving, enabling me to consider other people's viewpoints in order to find effective, culturally sensitive solutions to complex global challenges. This ability to acknowledge and engage with diverse perspectives will be crucial as I pursue a career in international business and marketing, where understanding and respecting differing beliefs and assumptions will help me build stronger relationships and make more informed decisions.

​

Global awareness is at the core of my global learning experiences. Whether it was visiting Bandhwari Village in India or attending class with students from all over the world, I gained a deep understanding of how local and global issues are intricately connected. For example, during my time in India, I saw firsthand how access to education, sustainable livelihoods, and community development are interwoven with broader global issues like poverty, inequality, and environmental challenges. Similarly, my coursework in International Finance Management and Strategic Management provided me with the tools to understand how businesses must navigate global risks and opportunities. My exposure to these interconnected issues has given me a broader view of the world, enabling me to assess situations from a global standpoint and recognize how seemingly local challenges have far-reaching consequences. Moving forward, I will continue to apply this global awareness to my future roles in marketing and business, using it to understand market trends, consumer behavior, and the broader socio-economic environment.

​

Global engagement has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my education. I’ve actively sought opportunities to engage in local, global, and intercultural problem-solving through initiatives like the Bandhwari Project and my work with Roaring Concepts. These experiences have demonstrated to me the power of collaboration across cultural boundaries and the importance of working together to address complex challenges. As I continue to search for global roles in business and marketing, I know that my willingness to engage with diverse teams, communicate effectively across cultures, and take on global challenges will play a pivotal role in my success. I am committed to applying the skills I’ve gained in these areas to solve problems on an international scale, whether through corporate strategy, marketing campaigns, or community-based projects.

​

Looking ahead, these experiences will significantly shape my personal, academic, and professional plans post-graduation. Personally, I am committed to continuing my global learning journey, seeking out roles where I can further explore different cultures and their impact on business. Academically, I will continue to build on the foundation I’ve developed in international business, and professionally, I am actively searching for global roles in marketing that will allow me to apply my knowledge and skills in real-world settings. This reflection serves as a call to action for myself: to continue broadening my perspective, stay aware of global issues, and engage with diverse cultures in my professional journey. The world is increasingly interconnected, and I am ready to take on the challenges and opportunities that come with it.