Author: John Verkamp | Major: Finance and Accounting | Semester: Summer 2024

Vienna: The City of Palaces

As a rising sophomore studying finance and accounting at the University of Arkansas, I found myself drawn to the CIMBA program in Paderno del Grappa, Italy for the summer of 2024. The opportunity to immerse myself in Italian culture while continuing my academic pursuits was irresistible. I had always been fascinated by Italy’s rich history and stunning landscapes, making it the perfect destination for my study abroad experience.

From the moment I arrived in Paderno del Grappa, I was struck by the quaint charm of this small Italian town nestled in the foothills of the Alps. The CIMBA campus, with its blend of modern facilities and historic architecture, became my home for the next two months. The program’s focus on business education in a global context aligned perfectly with my academic goals and desire for international exposure.

My coursework at CIMBA was both challenging and enlightening. I took Intro to Marketing and Italian Language and Culture. These courses provided valuable insights into the European business landscape. Specifically, during my marketing course, I was able to interact with Italian based entrepreneurs and visit Italian businesses. These experiences gave me a firsthand look at how cultural differences impact business operations and decision-making processes.

One of the most memorable academic components of my trip was a group project where we developed a market entry strategy for a Italian style Pizza restaurant looking to expand into Italy. Working with students from different countries and backgrounds taught me the importance of diverse perspectives in problem-solving and decision-making. Our presentation to our classmates and teacher was nerve-wracking but incredibly rewarding, as we received valuable feedback and insights from experienced professionals.

Outside of the classroom, CIMBA offered numerous opportunities for personal growth and exploration. The program’s emphasis on leadership development included off-campus field trips to other historical locations, company visits, and activities that I would’ve never had the courage to try. CIMBA works in this way: starting on Thursday after students’ last class, they are released to pursue a trip of their choice anywhere in Europe. This is why I feel that I developed so much on a personal level as a part of the CIMBA program. Because of the freedom that came with the setup of the program, I was doing my own research on where to stay and what to do and navigating travel and accommodation. I was able to see exactly what I had desired my entire life.

The weekends and travel breaks provided by the program allowed me to explore more of Europe than I ever thought possible. I visited Pula, Croatia, where I marveled at the smaller Roman Colosseum and got to explore the rocky beaches and teal waters. In Cinque Terre, I hiked along the picturesque coastal trails, taking in breathtaking views of colorful villages perched on cliffside.

Vienna, Austria, captivated me with its imperial grandeur and rich musical heritage. I attended a classical concert at a historical palace, an experience that left me in awe of the city’s cultural legacy. Athens, Greece, was a journey back in time as I explored the ancient Acropolis and contemplated the birthplace of Western civilization.

Rome and the Vatican were a whirlwind of history, art, and spirituality. Standing in the Colosseum, I could almost hear the roar of the ancient crowds. The Sistine Chapel left me speechless, its beauty surpassing anything I had imagined. Lake Como provided a tranquil retreat, its serene waters and stunning villas offering a glimpse into the luxurious side of Italian life. Milan’s fashion-forward atmosphere and impressive Duomo rounded out my Italian adventures.

Perhaps the most surprising destination was Budapest, Hungary. The city’s unique blend of Eastern and Western European influences, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife along the Danube River made for an unforgettable experience.

Throughout my travels, I found myself constantly amazed by the ease with which I could navigate different cultures and languages. The confidence I gained from these experiences is something I will carry with me throughout my academic and professional career.

Studying abroad differed significantly from my time on campus at the U of A. The intensity of the program, combined with the constant exposure to new experiences and cultures, presented both challenges and opportunities. I had to quickly adapt to different teaching styles, manage my time effectively to balance academics and travel, and overcome language barriers in everyday situations. These challenges taught me resilience, flexibility, and the importance of embracing uncertainty.

My advice to other students interested in studying abroad would be to approach the experience with an open mind and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Prepare yourself by learning some basic phrases in the local language and researching the cultures and especially the history of the areas that you’ll be encountering. Be ready for moments of confusion and frustration but know that these are often the precursors to your most significant personal growth.

As I reflect on my time with CIMBA in Italy, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to expand my horizons, both academically and personally. The experience has not only enhanced my understanding of international business but has also ignited a passion for global exploration that I’m sure will shape my future career path. The memories, friendships, and lessons learned during this summer will undoubtedly remain with me for years to come, serving as a constant reminder of the value of international education and cultural exchange.