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.