A broadened perspective on global and self-awareness These past four weeks at CIMBA have been eye-opening and presented me with many lifelong opportunities and memories. I can’t believe how fast these four weeks have gone, from first stepping on campus and not knowing what this study-abroad experience would hold. In Molly Rapert's Global Consumer course, I learned about many events occurring in China, a topic I knew little about beforehand. I have broadened my global awareness of issues and business practices outside the U.S. Studying abroad has allowed me to gain a perspective on Italy’s culture and, in the classroom, learn about China’s growing influence on the world. Travel weekends have allowed me to immerse myself in Italian culture and see the differences and similarities first-hand compared to my daily life in the U.S. In America, it is common for people to have a “live to work” mindset, compared to Italy’s “work to live” perspective. I quickly learned about the relaxed atmosphere of businesses in Italy. It is common for companies to take breaks, typically from 12-3 pm each afternoon, for rest. Many manufacturing companies we visited on class field trips had a significant focus on the quality of products to satisfy all customers’ needs and wants. Studying the difference in business practices has been notable to my knowledge of consumer markets and business practices, which I will carry into my professional career. Specifically, the Uyghur population and Belt Road Initiative topics opened my eyes to the events happening in China. From a world I thought I knew more about, Molly’s Global Consumer course has encouraged me to look deeper into topics outside the United States. It’s easy to stay focused on topics directly affecting you, but bringing awareness to the things affecting others has been a notable takeaway I’ve gained. The opportunity to study abroad has enabled me to widen my outlook on current issues and bring home knowledge that I didn’t know existed before. On Monday of week four, I sat in one of the most impactful college lectures by far. Molly shared a quote that will stick with me forever: "Think of this time as just one of many dominoes that might be pushing you in a new direction… or reinforcing the direction you are in.” Students in our global consumer course were given a domino reflecting the direction we are working towards and the growth each day brings. Studying abroad has been the experience I’ve been looking for that has allowed me to further define my goals and purpose in my personal and professional life. I will forever be grateful for the experience of being a student of Molly’s and an alumni of the CIMBA program.
Jadyn Koehler’s Post
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This weekend, while browsing LinkedIn and catching up on the latest news and updates in the international education industry, I came across a powerful graphic that really struck me. It symbolized the relationship between purpose and goals, reminding us that goals should never take precedence over our purpose. Why did this resonate with me so deeply? Because it perfectly aligns with where I am today. Back in 2011, I discovered my mission and purpose within the study abroad industry: to help people transform their lives, just as studying abroad changed mine. When you choose to study abroad, you're not just learning a new language—although that's valuable, of course. You're gaining so much more. You're learning how to cook, manage your bills, and handle your time. You're developing new skills, breaking through personal barriers, and working hard to finance your education. You discover more about yourself, meet people from all over the world, and dive into new cultures, histories, and cuisines. You build lifelong friendships, maybe even find the love of your life, travel the globe, and experience growth you never imagined. This is exactly what happened to me. In almost 13 years in this industry, I feel like I’ve lived a lifetime—packed with rich experiences and invaluable lessons. Never lose sight of your purpose. It's what will guide you. For me, being a facilitator of life-changing experiences for others is part of my mission. What’s yours? I’d love to hear about it in the comments.
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Every spring semester, groups of students embark on the Business Fundamentals in Europe study abroad to Paris, Rome, and London, where they combine cultural exploration with academic growth. Students gain firsthand insights into international business as they complete required BYU Marriott courses and tour companies in the area. “Seasoned BYU Marriott faculty teaching core classes overseas—it can put students on a pathway that leads to their future career,” says Jonathon Wood, the Whitmore Global Business Center’s managing director. “It can change their whole trajectory.” The study abroad gives many students the unique opportunity to prepare them for their major, or in some cases, the guidance and experience they need to choose a major. If you have ever participated in a study abroad, where did you go and what were your key takeaways? https://lnkd.in/grHQ6r23
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#StudyingAbroad is more than just earning a degree, it's a transformative experience that broadens perspectives, fosters #PersonalGrowth, and opens doors to career and cultural opportunities. Discover how #GlobalExposure, #Independence, and #LifelongConnections can shape your journey and prepare you for a world without borders. Read more about the true value of studying abroad in my latest post!
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Let's talk about How To Set Your Study Goals for Study Abroad: A Blueprint for Success 🎯 There's no doubt that Studying abroad is an exciting journey that not only broadens your academic knowledge but also opens doors to new cultures, perspectives, and personal growth. But to make the most out of this incredible opportunity, setting clear and actionable study goals is essential. Here’s how you can set yourself up for success: 1) Define Your Academic Objectives 📚 What do you want to achieve in your courses? Is there a specific subject area or skill you’re eager to master? -Set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to guide your studies. 2) Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture 🌏 Study abroad is as much about cultural exchange as it is about academics. Set goals for language learning, exploring local traditions, or participating in extracurricular activities. -Aim for personal growth through new experiences—whether it’s traveling, networking, or volunteering. 3) Build a Global Network 🌐 Use your time abroad to connect with professors, fellow students, and industry professionals. Set goals for networking both within and outside of your field to expand your career horizons. 4) Maintain a Balance ⚖️ Studying abroad can be overwhelming—don’t forget to prioritize your well-being. Set goals for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and staying organized. Remember, time management is key to avoiding burnout and making the most of your academic and personal life abroad. 5) Reflect and Adjust 🔄 Periodically assess your progress and make adjustments as needed. Are your goals still relevant? Are you on track to meet them? Flexibility and reflection will ensure you stay motivated and engaged. In summary, Sudying abroad is a transformative experience, but achieving your goals will require focus, determination, and a little bit of planning. Start setting your study goals now and make this journey one that not only enhances your academic journey but shapes your future. I hope you find this helpful! #StudyAbroad #GoalSetting #AcademicSuccess #CulturalExchange #PersonalGrowth #GlobalEducation #InternationalExperience
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Choosing the right study abroad program is a big decision, and it got me thinking about what really matters in this process. I remember a friend who was eager to immerse himself in a new culture, and after careful consideration, he chose a program in Spain. His thought process revolved around key factors: language immersion, cultural experiences, and academic reputation. Initially, everything seemed perfect. He quickly made friends and enjoyed every moment. However, as time went by, he struggled with the academic workload that was more intense than he anticipated. He felt overwhelmed—missing late study nights back home where professors were more approachable. Looking back, he realized that he hadn't fully explored the balance between the cultural experience and academic rigor before committing. To improve his situation, he sought advice from fellow students and used resources offered by his school more effectively, which led to better study habits and connections with professors. The takeaway here is clear: Do your homework not just on the location but also on the academic dynamics and support systems in place. Engage with past participants and ask hard questions—these insights are invaluable. It’s all about making informed choices that align with what you truly seek. And remember, studying abroad can be a life-changing experience if you approach it with careful planning and an open heart. 🌍✈️
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Holder, Walmart Lectureship in Retail ..... ReThink Retail's 2024 Top Retail Expert (Academic) ..... Associate Professor at University of Arkansas ..... Director, Walton Center for Teaching Effectiveness
9moI am delighted you chose Cimba and chose my Global Consumer course. You were instrumental in making this an outstanding experience for me in the classroom! Thank you for your work, diligence, and insight ... and I love reading this narrative that so clearly articulates the best learnings: the ones that come outside of the classroom. I've been blessed to have this experience here for 24 summers and I love my CIMBA family of students! I'm counting on you to keep in touch with me, share your experience with future students, and know that you always have me as a resource in whatever comes your way. I hope YOUR dominoes fall in a way that brings you more adventures, great health, and a joyful life! Grateful for you and the rest of room 17!