Author: Khushi Modi | Major: Business Economics and Political Science | Semester: Summer 2024
An evening in Bassano del Grappa
This summer, I studied abroad in Paderno del Grappa, Italy, through the CIMBA program. I chose this program due to the recommendations from upperclassmen, no one ever had anything negative to say and they raved about the teachers they were able to learn from. Additionally, I was drawn to its location. Instead of being in a touristy city in Italy, I was able to stay in a small town and experience true Italian culture. CIMBA was academically rigorous, but this challenge made me enjoy it even more. I learned so much real-world knowledge, and the classes weren’t just about memorizing facts; they focused on shifting perspectives and creating your own opinions. My choice was further solidified when I realized its business course offerings aligned with my degree requirements. This experience greatly enhanced both my personal and academic growth, providing me with invaluable insights and a deeper understanding of global business dynamics.
At CIMBA, I took Molly Rapert’s Global Consumer course and Eric Olson’s Global Economics
and Business course. In the Global Consumer class, we delved into the complexities of global
markets, consumer behavior, and business strategies, particularly focusing on emerging markets
like China and Africa. One of the most impactful moments in this class was our in-depth
discussions on China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the ethical considerations surrounding global
trade practices. These discussions broadened my understanding of international economics and
highlighted the importance of ethical considerations in business. Additionally, our class took
field trips to local businesses, including a visit to La Ceramica, a renowned pottery manufacturer.
Witnessing the intricate pottery-making process and the dedication of artisans to their craft was
inspiring. It emphasized the importance of quality and tradition in Italian business practices.
In the Global Economics and Business course taught by Eric Olson, we delved into how tariffs
affect big versus small countries and the repercussions for them. We also explored the 2008
financial crisis and the European debt crisis, examining their ongoing impact on the world today.
Eric Olson was an amazing teacher who presented difficult content in an easily digestible way,
and it was an honor learning from him.
Risk, Resilience, and Reward
I have never been a particularly risky person. I usually stick to anything and everything within
my comfort zone. However, the four weeks I spent in Paderno del Grappa, studying at CIMBA,
have been life-changing. Deciding to study in a small town in Italy was a risk in itself. I’ve never
spent significant time away from my family, nor have I traveled internationally alone before.
Coming to CIMBA University without close companions was a challenge.
During these four weeks in Paderno del Grappa, I have taken more risks and faced unforeseen
challenges head-on. Navigating weekend travels in unfamiliar European cities was tough, and I
often found myself outside my comfort zone. Each journey taught me resilience as I adapted to
new environments and learned to manage on my own.
Academically and personally, I encountered and had to navigate different leadership styles and
pushed past conflicts with people who handled disputes differently than I did. I have learned to
approach each situation with a positive and graceful attitude and to recognize when stepping
back is the best option for the group.
Before coming to CIMBA, I lived in a bubble where everyone around me shared the same
opinions and backgrounds. This journey has shown me the importance of differing opinions and
open discussions, especially with those who hold different beliefs. It puts events into a better
perspective and underscores that growth often comes from conflict, challenge, and resilience. I
firmly believe now that you cannot grow without conflict, you cannot grow without challenge,
and you cannot grow without resilience.
I have also learned to seek discomfort because it is within moments of discomfort that you
choose either to rise or sink. Before this experience, I found it was easier to sink and let the
pressures take the best of me. Now, I find that you can rise without having to be the one in the
lead. You can make the discomfort your own and embrace it, and that is how you change.
Understanding that change and discomfort are inevitable is key to navigating challenging
circumstances.
Taking risks by studying abroad and embracing discomfort have allowed me to reap incredible
rewards. I have gained a changed perspective, formed lasting friendships, and developed a
deeper understanding of myself. Physically and mentally, I fell numerous times, but each fall was
a lesson in resilience. Through determination and support from new friends, I navigated these
situations and emerged stronger. This journey has taught me the invaluable lesson of stepping
outside my comfort zone and embracing the unknown.
Looking back, I can confidently say this experience has changed me despite the bumps in the
road. I have gained a new perspective on the world, formed lasting friendships, and developed a
deeper understanding of myself. This journey has underscored the importance of taking risks.
You never know what opportunities and growth await you just beyond the boundaries of your
comfort zone. As I continue my journey at the University of Arkansas, I plan to carry forward
these experiences by seeking out diverse perspectives, engaging in open discussions, and
approaching challenges with grace and resilience. I now understand that true growth often
emerges from stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing the unknown.
If you’re considering studying abroad or taking on a new challenge, my advice is: to take risks
and embrace the uncertainty. You might find that the resilience you build and the rewards you
reap are beyond anything you could have imagined.