Tag Archives: Business Admin/International Business

Gabriel Koomson

Posted with friends in front of the Tokyo tower!

NAME: Gabriel Koomson

MAJOR: Business Admin/International Business

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Sophia University/Yokohama National University Calendar Year 2024 – 2025

EMAIL: gabriel.koomson@sjsu.edu

BIO: My passion for Japanese started during Covid. I started watching a lot of Japanese shows and took interest in not only how the language sounded but also how it looked. This was back in high school. By the time I graduated, I had no idea what I wanted to study, however I was still interested in Japanese. Then I found out about international business. It was then that I decided I eventually wanted to visit Japan. I took three semesters of Japanese in order to build a strong foundation of the language so I would be better prepared and gain respect from Japanese people by showing them I took the time to study the language. For example, using honorific tense when talking to someone older than me, and using the short form of a word when talking casually. There are many reasons as to why I wanted to study abroad. One of them being a change of scenery. Throughout my freshman and sophomore years in college every day felt the same. Wake up, go to school, hang out with the same group from high school, it all felt so repetitive. However, since I was blessed with the opportunity to go abroad, I knew I couldn’t pass it up. And if I did, it would’ve been one of the biggest regrets of my life. Before going to Japan, I had never been out of the country. But now I can happily say that I have four other countries under my belt. I was able to visit Japan, Thailand, South Korea and Indonesia. Travel is very important because it shows you how the other parts of the word live and expand your understanding.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

Before studying abroad, I had many goals in mind. One of my biggest goals was to continue my interest in the Japanese language. One reason for this goal is, I find the language very fascinating, and another reason being, in the future, I want to be able to manage cars and car parts that travel to and from Japan and America. The Japanese car culture has been around for many years. That being said, because I have a strong passion for Japanese as well as cars, nothing is better than combining things that you love. And as they say, “once you find something that you love and are passionate about, it doesn’t feel like a job.” Another goal of mine was to meet/make new connections with people from all over the world. Doing a study abroad exposes you to so many people with so many different and amazing backgrounds. For example, I met people from Japan, Australia, Canada, France, Indonesia and Vietnam. In meeting all of these wonderful people, I was able to create memories that will last a lifetime and that I will be able to tell my children about in the future.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you

The biggest impact that my study abroad experience has had on me, is allowing me to completely understand the importance of travel. Although people live perfectly normal lives, staying in the same country all their life, they miss out on all of the amazing experiences that the rest of the globe has to offer. At first, I was the same way. For a while I was content with the way I lived and saw no point in traveling when I could just watch videos of different places. But once you really experience different countries, cultures, and sceneries, you really get to understand how important it is.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

I mainly took Japanese courses. During these courses, it was less strategy and more so fully focusing on the task at hand. Something that can be considered a strategy while learning the language was using a whiteboard. Using a whiteboard, not only saves paper, but also allows repeated processes to be written. Although one might think that courses in Japan might be harder, for me that was not the case. But of course everyone is different especially in the classes they take. My schedule at Yokohama was nowhere close to the schedule I have currently at SJSU, mainly due to the fact that I took no business courses for my major, ultimately putting me a semester behind. However, I do not regret my decision. In my opinion, in this situation, you have to think of the bigger picture. I will never be at this age again, I will never be able to enjoy Japan in a school setting again, and with all those factors coming into it, for me was a no-brainer to do the semester. I could always just do an extra semester. Courses at SJSU will never go away, but time when you’re young does. 

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? From my Japanese skills to my people skills to my networking skills, I have been able to enhance and expand into all of these categories. Bringing all of my knowledge from Japan back to SJSU I would say has prepared me more for after I graduate and enter the real world. By understanding how to cooperate and work with others on a bigger scale. One way that this is possible is because you are meeting people from all around the world, you meet people from different cultures and backgrounds, therefore they could possibly have a different viewpoint than you. And at that point you have to learn how to understand one another.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

Having been to all of these different countries has really impacted my perspective on the world. Seeing how different parts of the world live, seeing how people interact with each other, makes me realize the beauty of individuals all around the globe. Being immersed in Japan for a whole year allowed me to compare and contrast my life in America. From the safety in Japan, to the overall respect in Japan, I would’ve never been able to experience it, had I not studied abroad. For me immersion is everything. Although it might be scary, in the long run you will be very glad as well as proud of yourself that you made the big leap into something two years ago, you would’ve never thought possible. This experience has allowed me to fully understand that the world is beautiful.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

Now that I have a better understanding of people’s viewpoints from different cultures, I feel like I am able to more easily collaborate with people of all backgrounds. I have gained the ability to respect people’s beliefs, as well as ideals. I’ve also gained the skill of compromise when dealing with heavy topics.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?  

It’s very simple but true. Do not be afraid to get out of your comfort zone. Put yourself in a future perspective. Would you have rather gone through the struggle of getting out of your comfort zone or forever know that you will never be able to find out? Go through any obstacle head-on and don’t stop.

Jennifer Garcia

In Rome – Monti

NAME:  Jennifer Garcia

MAJOR: Business Admin/International Business

PROGRAM: Global Internships – Academic Program International – Institute Lorenzo de Medici – Summer 2025

EMAIL: jennifer.p.garcia@sjsu.edu

BIO: My name is Jennifer Garcia, and I am a senior at San José State University, majoring in International Business with a concentration in Marketing. I was born in Mexico City and moved to the United States when I was seven, an experience that sparked my curiosity about different cultures and how people connect across borders. Growing up between two worlds taught me the importance of cultural exchange, adaptability, and open mindedness. all of which influenced my decision to study and intern abroad.

This past summer, I had the opportunity to intern in Florence, Italy, where I worked on a sustainable tourism project called Walk Florence With Respect. The experience allowed me to explore new approaches to responsible travel while also applying what I’ve learned in business and marketing to real world challenges. Living abroad not only strengthened my professional skills but also helped me grow personally by stepping out of my comfort zone, engaging with local communities, and adapting to a new environment.

I chose to go abroad because I wanted to immerse myself in another culture, expand my global perspective, and challenge myself academically and professionally. I believe that studying and interning abroad offers a unique chance to learn beyond the classroom while building meaningful connections that shape both career goals and personal growth. My time in Italy confirmed my passion for cross-cultural learning and inspired me to encourage other students to pursue international opportunities.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

Before going abroad, I set several goals for my study and internship experience in Florence. Personally, I wanted to challenge myself to adapt to a new culture, build independence, and gain a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. I aimed to step out of my comfort zone by navigating a new city, engaging with locals, and fully immersing myself in Italian life.

Academically, my goal was to connect my coursework in International Business and Marketing with real world experiences. I wanted to apply classroom concepts to a practical project, gain hands on skills, and understand how business practices function in a global context.

Professionally, I aimed to develop skills that would enhance my career readiness, such as project management, teamwork, communication, and cross cultural problem solving. Through my internship on the project, I was able to research sustainable tourism practices, create practical solutions, and collaborate with a diverse team.

Overall, my goals were to grow as a student, professional, and individual. By the end of my experience, I achieved these goals and returned with stronger skills, greater confidence, and a broadened perspective that continues to influence my academic and career path.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact my study and internship abroad had on me was gaining confidence in myself and my ability to adapt to new environments. Living in Florence pushed me far outside of my comfort zone, from navigating a new city on my own to collaborating with people from different cultural and academic backgrounds. At first, the challenges felt overwhelming, but with time I realized that I was capable of adjusting, problem solving, and thriving in situations that were unfamiliar.

This experience also deepened my sense of independence. Being away from home taught me how to rely on myself, make thoughtful decisions, and embrace the unknown with a positive mindset. I discovered that growth often happens in moments of discomfort, and this lesson has shaped the way I now approach challenges in both my academics and personal life.

Most importantly, my immersion in another culture gave me a stronger appreciation for diversity and human connection. I returned home with a broader perspective on the world and a renewed commitment to engaging with people respectfully and authentically, no matter where I am.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

During my time abroad in Florence, my academic experience was both rigorous and rewarding. I chose courses that complemented my major in International Business and Marketing while also giving me a deeper understanding of Italian culture and global perspectives. In addition to my classes, I completed a project based internship focused on sustainable tourism, where I researched and developed a guidebook. Balancing coursework with the internship allowed me to apply what I learned in class directly to real world challenges, strengthening both my academic and professional growth.

To ensure my success, I stayed organized by creating a consistent study routine, setting weekly goals, and actively engaging with professors and peers. I also took advantage of my surroundings by connecting classroom concepts with daily experiences in Florence whether through conversations with locals, exploring historical sites, or observing cultural differences in business practices.

Returning to San José State University, I have noticed a stronger sense of confidence in my academic work. The experience taught me how to manage multiple responsibilities, think critically in cross cultural contexts, and contribute original ideas in group projects. My time abroad reinforced my interest in international business and has motivated me to pursue opportunities that continue to bridge cultural understanding with professional development.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience?

During my study and internship abroad in Florence, I strengthened several skills that continue to shape both my academic and professional growth. One of the most important was adaptability. Living and working in a new cultural environment required me to adjust quickly, whether it was learning different workplace expectations, navigating language barriers, or managing unfamiliar situations. This flexibility has carried over into how I approach challenges back at San José State and in my personal life.

I also sharpened my communication and collaboration skills. My internship project required me to work closely with a diverse team, share ideas clearly, and present solutions that connected with both local stakeholders and international audiences. These experiences helped me become more confident in group settings, presentations, and cross-cultural dialogue.

Finally, I gained valuable skills in research, problem-solving, and professional networking. Learning to connect academic concepts with real world issues taught me how to think critically and propose practical solutions. Since returning home, I have applied these skills to my coursework, student projects, and future career planning. My time abroad gave me not only technical knowledge but also the confidence and perspective to succeed in global and multicultural environments.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

My immersion abroad in Florence significantly broadened the way I view the world. Living in another country challenged me to step outside of my own routines and see life through a new cultural perspective. I realized that communities thrive on shared values like respect, adaptability, and connection, regardless of where you come from. By engaging with locals and learning about their traditions, I became more aware of how cultural differences can be strengths rather than barriers.

Working on a sustainable tourism project also changed how I think about global responsibility. I saw how international visitors impact local communities and how conscious decisions such as supporting small businesses or exploring less crowded areas can make a positive difference. This experience reminded me that even individual choices contribute to a larger collective impact.

Overall, my immersion taught me to approach the world with empathy and curiosity. It gave me a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and reinforced my commitment to building bridges across communities. I returned to San José State with a stronger sense of responsibility as a global citizen, motivated to promote respect, sustainability, and understanding wherever I go.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

Studying and interning abroad in Florence has prepared me for my future by giving me the skills, perspective, and confidence needed to succeed in an increasingly globalized world. Through my internship on sustainable tourism, I learned how to apply business and marketing concepts in real world, cross cultural settings. Collaborating with international peers and engaging with local communities strengthened my communication, adaptability, and problem solving skills, qualities that are essential in any professional environment.

Living abroad also enhanced my cultural awareness and global mindset. I learned to navigate unfamiliar situations, respect diverse perspectives, and approach challenges with empathy and creativity. These lessons are directly applicable to my future career in international business, where understanding different markets, cultures, and consumer behaviors is critical.

Finally, the experience inspired me to continue seeking opportunities that connect academic knowledge with real   world impact. I returned home motivated to engage with global issues, contribute positively to communities, and approach my personal and professional goals with confidence, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?

My advice to a future Global Spartan is to fully embrace the experience and step outside your comfort zone. Take every opportunity to explore the local culture, connect with people, and try new things. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes its some of the best lessons come from challenges. Stay curious, be adaptable, and reflect on your experiences along the way. This mindset will help you grow personally, academically, and professionally while making the most of your time abroad.

Paulina Lopez

Solo traveled Italy for 2 weeks, so this is me at the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa!

NAME: Paulina Lopez

MAJOR:  Business Admin/International Business

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Universidad Autonoma de Barcelona, Spain – Fall 2024

EMAIL: paulina.lopez@sjsu.edu

BIO:

I am Paulina, a Bay Area native. Ever since high school, I have had the goal of traveling abroad, whether for leisure or for school. When applying to colleges, I made sure the study abroad programs these schools provided were places I saw myself living in. I settled on San Jose State not only for its fantastic business program, but also for the options available to study abroad in cities I have always dreamed of. 

Therefore, since my first year at San Jose, the goal was to study abroad for a semester, and I found out this would help me tremendously, as I am majoring in International Business. The experience of studying abroad in Spain, a country where I knew so much of until I didn’t, getting to learn a new culture and immerse myself in a region such as Catalonia where the language was not Spanish, the tradtions and customs were varying. Everything all seemed so excited and I found myself advocating for others to study abroad. 

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

My main goal was to prepare myself for the real world. As an international business major, I see myself traveling for work, and my worst fear was leaving the nest. I wanted to grow, but I constantly had the fear of missing out on important events back home. Being able to move abroad for 6 months in the Fall of 2024 taught me that, regardless of distance, I am capable of maintaining relationships and can continue to push myself forward to do things out of my comfort zone, especially as a female solo traveller and a first-generation student who worked for years for this study abroad experience. 

Nevertheless, once admitted for study abroad I made a list of goals that I wanted to achieve, these were examples like making friends with people in my classes that I would take, push myself to take a class in Spanish because regardless of my Mexican background because I always feared taking a class in Spanish and especially in a place where I wasn’t accustomed to the slang, and the use of formalities. Lastly was to travel to countries my family never even knew existed. I wanted to make my presence known in parts of the world where even I had to Google information about.

All of these goals were achieved because I insisted on and pushed for these goals, I am proud of myself and proud of the new future goals I have created and will achieve later on in life. 

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

From the get-go, I was nervous about assimilating into a culture I had heard so much about for years, with many family members chiming in, letting me know their opinions about a country they had never visited but knew so much of because of social media. I was the first in my family to ever do anything like this. I covered all my expenses, handled all the paperwork, and most importantly, experienced what I have been wanting to experience for the longest time. 

The impacts I had throughout my study abroad were meaningful and sincere. I met locals, learned through them. Informed myself on the situations going on in Catalonia, and came back informed, ready to spread the word. I am glad to say I came back more knowledgeable not only about myself but about certain topics that aren’t covered on the news or even dared to be talked about. This was my growth as a student and as a person, I wish other can experience full immersion and enjoy the true beauty their study abroad country has to offer.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

Once I knew I wanted to study abroad, I made it a point to keep my upper-division GEs as a slot for me to take abroad. I did this with the intention to be able to having many options on which classes I could take and then be able to choose which ones interested me. As I took 4 classes abroad, I took 3 for my major requirements and for my minor in Spanish. 

Being able to take European Economic Integration, Environmental Economics, Project Management, and lastly a journalism class for Spanish writers was not easy, as the school had different grading systems and the professors were not as flexible as they are back in San Jose. As I did not live on campus and would commute an hour 4 days a week, I made sure that the rest of my time was dedicated to visiting new places around the city that involved some way I could get work done. This would be trying multiple new cafes in a day while getting work done, sitting in a new park while basking in the sun, but getting work done.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience?

Before leaving for my study abroad experience, I realized how important LinkedIn was and the real meaning of connections beyond a conversation. I was able to create connections with my professors during my study abroad, and I am still in touch with them. During my travels, I would meet many people working for companies back home in the US, but they were able to pick up their stuff and be able to travel while working. These were the connections I was looking for; therefore, it ultimately sharpened my goals, and I learned how to network with individuals I could see myself potentially messaging in the future for a reference. 

Every conversation was a gateway to meeting other people and potentially even finding jobs post-graduation, or if not, I was inspired by everyone. Regardless of age, gender, or race, every single conversation mattered to me and helped me realize we are all on our own pace and our own paths. I am on my own path and journey and that is what makes us all unique. 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

As I was able to solo-travel for a month in August and a month in December, I was able to meet new people with whom I am still in contact today. This immersion impacted my perspective because, in the beginning, I was timid to go and almost chickened out of this great experience. But the more I looked into the program, things to do, and places to travel, I only excited myself more. 

When I took solo trips, I made sure to involve myself in as many activities as I could to meet new people, this would be staying in hostels and joining the free tours they would do of the city to learn about a place through a local’s perspective. Or I would play cards with groups in the lobby; this was the raw and real experiences that changed the way I saw traveling. 

Everyone who wanted to travel just did it, scared or not; they still wanted to see the world. I learned how to spend a lot of time with myself and become my own best friend. It inspired me to realize what I wanted to do post-graduation and where I see myself in the future. This immersion was not only life-changing, but it also helped me answer questions I wanted answers to for a very long time.  

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? As an international business major this studying abroad prepared me for my future and not only excited me but has led me to look into master’s programs abroad. I am excited for the endless options and opportunities this major can grant me and by taking the chance of going abroad again in the future will be a breeze for me, and hopefully I can explain to others on how to do so as well.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?

There are many ways to study abroad on a budget. I would give the advice of doing your research and learning which program is right for you. From there, the planning begins.

I would give advice, especially to those going to Barcelona, on which areas to go to, how to get to school, ways to travel, and the ins and outs of Barcelona and traveling around Europe.

Kai Lim

Kai Lim

MAJOR: Business Admin/International Business

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Sophia University, Japan

EMAIL: kai.lim@sjsu.edu

BIO: As someone who was born in Tokyo and has family over there, I share a strong connection with the city and Japan overall. I want to pursue a career in international business, which may involve long-term travel and interaction with diverse groups of people. Thus, I felt Tokyo to be a more than suitable location for my study abroad.

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: I have had two internships and two jobs, one in Tokyo! I was also the Service chair for my fraternity right before I left for exchange. Now I am the Alumni Relations chair for the same fraternity.

GOALS: I was hoping to be more immersed in Tokyo, to experience the life of being a student in Japan. I wanted to explore as many facets of Japan as I could. I was immersed in the fashion, the trendy areas, the local areas, food, nightlife, and general lifestyle. I wanted to make friends from all over, so that when I do further traveling in my own time, I can have points of contact during my travels. The goal was to make lifelong friends, and experience new experiences in Tokyo with them.

Yukata day at Sophia University. We boarded the booze cruise soon after

ACADEMICS: I would say the academics in Japan are easier, as their system has it so that middle and high school are intense, while university is more relaxed (much to the opposite of the United States).I did not want to take a heavy course load so that I can enjoy my time in Japan as much as I could, which I achieved. I even took another Japanese class, which met 5 days a week. I could have taken 2 business classes but I chose Japanese due to myself wanting further immersion.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: It makes me understand more that while every culture has different behaviors and mindsets, people are people at the end of the day. A German likes to party as much as a Brazilian, and a Japanese student likes to hang out and go to cafes like any other American, The world seems so different and vast, but we really are similar.

CAREER: I understood what mannerisms + behaviors are applicable to most people globally. I can just about converse with anyone from many different backgrounds. I figured out how to maintain global friendships.

PERSONAL GROWTH: So much of myself changed due to the study abroad program. I became more social than ever, and living on your own in a different country makes you a more independent individual. Creating friendships from scratch.

IDENTITIES: Being Asian American, especially half Japanese is an interesting dynamic in Japan. In Japan, to be truly Japanese, you need to be a part of the culture, to have grown inside it and understand the niche jokes of the generations.

FUTURE: It helped me a lot with independence and connecting.

TIPS: Talk to as much people as possible. DO Live in a share house with MANY other people. CONGREGATE in the lounge to make friends, and SAY YES to spontaneous adventures.

 

Mikhail Benitez

Mikhail Benitez

MAJOR: Business Admin/International Business

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Sophia University, Japan

EMAIL: mikhailhumphrey.benitez@sjsu.edu

BIO: Hi, I’m Mikhail Benitez, and I spent a year studying abroad at Sophia University in Japan. I decided to take on this challenge to immerse myself in a culture that had always intrigued me. Although I had always been fascinated by Japan, living there never seemed like a real possibility – especially since I had never even visited the country before. When I discovered SJSU’s study abroad program, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to experience life in Japan firsthand. It would push me out of my comfort zone, help me grow personally, and allow me to form connections with people from around the world. That’s why I chose to study abroad.

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: I’ve never been in any leadership roles but I’ve done a bit of community service before. The only job experience I’ve had is a part-time barista job.

GOALS: My goals for studying abroad were to grow personally and to immerse myself in a new culture. Looking back, I feel accomplished both. I became more confident and greatly improved my self-efficacy. I also learned to be more social, forming friendships with people I never expected. Studying abroad also pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and helped me become more independent. I learned to explore Tokyo alone, to handle paying my bills on time, and solving problems that arise.

A photo I took while surfing in Chiba with friends. The waves were bigger than I expected.

ACADEMICS: I was enrolled in a Japanese language class and business classes, and while the experience was rewarding overall, the first few days were challenging. One of the key challenges of studying abroad is managing your time effectively. I had to find a balance between studying for my courses and making time to explore Tokyo with friends. I didn’t want to spend all my time studying, but I also didn’t want to neglect my academic responsibilities. To stay on track, I wrote down everything I needed to do and carefully managed my time. This approach had a significant positive impact on my academics, allowing me to succeed in my classes while still enjoying my time in Tokyo.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: My study abroad experience significantly broadened my perspective of the world. Immersing myself in the culture of my host country gave me a deeper appreciation for its traditions, values, and way of life. By participating in cultural events and taking language classes at my host university, I connected with the local community and gained insight into everyday life that I wouldn’t have learned as a tourist. Meeting other international students was also a great experience. Learning about their home countries, their customs, and their unique experiences opened my eyes to the diversity of the world. The interaction I had with them motivated me to travel more and explore other cultures firsthand. It was through these conversations that I realized just how small my perspective of the world has been. Studying abroad helped me understand that there is so much more to learn and experience beyond my own familiar surroundings, and it fuels my curiosity to continue broadening my worldview.

CAREER: My study abroad experience significantly broadened my perspective of the world. Immersing myself in the culture of my host country gave me a deeper appreciation for its traditions, values, and way of life. By participating in cultural events and taking language classes at my host university, I connected with the local community and gained insight into everyday life that I wouldn’t have learned as a tourist.

Meeting other international students was also a great experience. Learning about their home countries, their customs, and their unique experiences opened my eyes to the diversity of the world. The interaction I had with them motivated me to travel more and explore other cultures firsthand. It was through these conversations that I realized just how small my perspective of the world has been. Studying abroad helped me understand that there is so much more to learn and experience beyond my own familiar surroundings, and it fuels my curiosity to continue broadening my worldview.

PERSONAL GROWTH: Studying in Japan had a big impact on me, especially in building my confidence. Naturally, I’m a shy and quiet person, and approaching others to introduce myself was something I rarely did. I struggled with low self-confidence and self-efficacy, though I wasn’t sure why. Before leaving for Japan, I made it a goal to work on that. While there, I faced situations that were challenging and uncomfortable. In the past, I would have avoided them, but those experiences ultimately helped me grow. Reflecting on it now, I feel that I made all the right choices, and I returned more confident than when I left.

FUTURE: My experience abroad has equipped me to handle challenging situations more effectively. Moving to a foreign country can feel overwhelming, with so much new information coming at you all at once. During my first few days in Tokyo, I faced several struggles – figuring out how to get an IC card, learning how to navigate buses and trains, and adjusting to living alone in a foreign country. It was intimidating, but it forced me to adapt and grow.

TIPS: My advice to future Global Spartans is to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the challenges that may seem intimidating. Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity for personal growth, as well as for creating lifelong memories with new friends. Don’t hesitate to put yourself out there and fully enjoy the experience. Many of the students I met were initially shy, but by the end of their time abroad, they had gained confidence and were thriving in Japan. So, be bold. Approach your study abroad journey with the goal of having no regrets when its over and you won’t be disappointed.

Jessica Tran

NAME: Jessica Tran
MAJOR: ‘Business Admin/International Business
PROGRAM: South Korea, SJSU Exchange – Kyungpook National University
EMAIL: jessica.t.tran01@sjsu.edu

 

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?
Reflect on the personal, academic, and professional goals that you had set out to achieve on your study abroad experience?

My goals when studying abroad was learning and experiencing how life is like in another country, as it would be much different than the US. I also wanted to become independent and learn how to care for myself.

PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

I think the biggest impact that my study abroad experience had on me was the independence of taking care of myself. As I was born and raised here, I never was away from my family, and I would have never been able to experience it until most likely after graduation. Going to South Korea all by myself, with no friends or family members with me, was the best thing I decided to do. Being able to navigate my way around a country I have never been to, and the fact that I hardly know the language I find is amazing. Also I believe that since I was there alone, I was able to find myself and take the time to care for myself, which I do not always have the time and opportunity for myself here.

ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?
Share what courses you chose to take abroad and the strategies you used to ensure your academic success. How has the experience impacted your academics now that you have returned to SJSU?
I took 2 business courses and 2 GE courses, in order to pass you need to do assignments and study for exams. However, you must not be absent over 8 classes or you will fail the course.
CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study abroad experience?
Reflect on how your study abroad experience and the skills, knowledge, or networking has enhanced or contributed to your life back on campus or home.

Since every country is different, figuring out how to have the ability to adapt and adjust accordingly would be a great skill to learn. Also since most other countries do not have their main language as English, learning and going through the obstacles of interacting and communicating with the people there in their native language. Also since I knew no one and had no friends, I had to get out of my shell and befriend natives and other foreigners. I never really made friends in my classes in SJSU, but after coming back, I have seen myself interacting and networking with more people. It also made me realize how lucky we are to be attending a university in the US. Foreign students have to take English exams to see if they qualify to study abroad in the US. While for us, we can apply much easier as the schools abroad offer courses taught in English and there is no need to be proficient at their main language.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?
Reflect on the opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and/or at your host university. How did your immersion in a new culture change your perspective on the world or your future?
I think it really gets you out there, since I basically threw myself into a country where English is not the main language. It allows you to learn how adapt and take care of yourself.
FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

Studying abroad allowed me to become more prepared for my future. I am now confident in being able to live by myself, putting myself out there and ask people for help, my communicating and networking skills have strengthened, and most importantly taking care of my wellbeing. Also learned how to budgeting my spendings, which I would say was the hardest one handle while abroad.

TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan?

Advice I would give a future Global Spartan is to not bring as much luggage. It was mentioned multiple times in the orientation and the meeting, but when packing I felt like I needed to bring a lot of things. In reality, I brought many things I did not need. Knowing a little of the language before hand would come in handy, although a good amount of people would probably be able to help you even if you do not know the language. Also know which apps to download before arriving to your study abroad location, as you will be using those apps on a daily basis.