Admiring the Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy.
Author: Keathley Snider | Major: Marketing | Semester: Summer 2023
I am Keathley Snider a student at the University of Arkansas Sam M. Walton Honors College majoring in business Marketing with a minor in Business Analytics. Over the past summer I had the privilege of studying abroad through the CIMBA program in Paderno Del Grappa, Italy.
There are so many amazing study abroad programs to choose from, so when choosing a program there were lots of factors to consider. I knew I wanted to choose a program I would be gaining an experience which would allow me to be pushed out of my comfort zone academically and personally which led me to selecting the CIMBA program. At CIMBA, the academic courses I took offered me fresh perspectives on various subjects. Dr. Molly Rapert‘s Global Consumer course dived into critical issues occurring worldwide. Exploring the dynamics of the global marketplace in China, Africa, and Italy shed light on the distinctive characteristics of different regions. Dr. Rapert’s guidance not only deepened my academic knowledge but also ignited a new excitement for learning and taught me so much about myself as a person. She has guided me as a student throughout this whole process and I am beyond blessed to have gotten to experience such an amazing course with an even more amazing professor. Similarly, in Professor Heather Nelson’s storytelling in marketing course, I discovered the significance of storytelling within marketing today. Witnessing a tour of the Italian outdoor company called Garmont allowed me to see firsthand the application of storytelling within marketing which deepened my understanding of a story’s power in the marketing environment all around the world. Getting to learn from Professor Nelson, an incredible entrepreneur and mentor broadened my perspective, inspiring me in countless ways and allowing me to gain excitement towards my future career. I am so grateful for the courses I got to partake in and the professors who have opened my eyes to the world around me allowing me to see things in a different and deeper way. These two courses surpassed my expectations far more than I could have even imagined. I was able to learn about real world issues occurring around me along with information I know will be valuable within my future career in marketing.
Being submerged in a small town filled with Italian culture allowed me to develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of others. Overcoming language barriers while engaging in conversations taught me how important the role of communication is in our daily lives. Although it was challenging at times, the countless interactions I had with locals and business owners enriched my experience and broadened my horizons. During the travel weekends, I not only learned more about myself but also observed the different approaches to handling stress and planning. This invaluable insight improved my communication skills and enhanced my ability to collaborate effectively with others. Navigating and organizing travel itineraries expanded my planning skills, providing me with a valuable asset for the future.
Looking back on my time at the I am amazed by the personal and professional growth I have experienced. From embracing Italian culture and communication skills to expanding my knowledge through exceptional academic courses, this experience has equipped me with the multiple tools necessary for success. I am deeply grateful for the exceptional professors, mentors, and the CIMBA community, who have played a role in shaping my journey. I will forever cherish the memories of my time in the small town of Paderno Del Grappa, carrying the knowledge gained here as a guide throughout the rest of my life. I would highly recommend this program to all students as I could not say enough positive things about my experience. My time abroad has been the most incredible experience and I can for sure say the first thing I will be doing upon my return to the United States is eating Chick-Fil-A.