Learning how to cook pasta noodles
Author: Kennedy Fitzpatrick | Majors: Marketing and Management
Before my study abroad experience, I had never been to Europe and didn’t know much about it. When picking between the numerous study abroad options that the University of Arkansas offers, what drew me towards my selected program was that it was focused on my major, Marketing. The typical response that I got when telling friends about the program I chose was confusion because Rome is known for its history and art, not their business. All of the beautiful buildings and museums were built with money and business is a big part of the culture in Italy. Walking around the city with a business mindset opened up my perspective on business. While abroad I was introduced to a new culture and new ways of business that I can bring back
to my classes and my future career. During class I can bring this new perspective to projects and discussions. For future careers, I will be able to explain how I am very adaptable based on my ability to adapt to a new culture for a month.
While studying abroad and taking classes that were very hands-on. After spending time in the classroom discussing the differences in marketing to an American community versus an Italian community, we were able to go out into the city and experience it. We walked around the local markets as well as went out to the outer areas to see the difference in marketing when tourists are not as present. My instructors were the most helpful and encouraging throughout the process. They helped us adapt to the new culture and lifestyle. They also were there to push us out into the business scene and allow us to expand our knowledge with their guidance on how to. While being back on campus, we get to work on projects and learn, but we do not get the hands-on experience from being out in the markets every day with our instructors and seeing the marketing tactics.
In Italy, the biggest shock I endured was using public transportation. Figuring out my way around town using the trains and buses was one of the hardest challenges while abroad. However, by the end of the 4 weeks, I felt like a professional and I was even able to help other tourists find their destinations.
The food was one of the best parts about the culture. After one month of trying all of the different pasta options, I can truly say there is no bad pasta in Italy. I even got to attend a cooking class and learn how to prepare noodles like an Italian chef! I did have to toss in a couple of Mcdonald’s burgers into the meal plan though. The taste of salty french fries made me feel at home again. Tasting the McDonald’s Italian exclusives was so interesting. They had what seemed to be a fancy pizza roll on the menu and I ate them once a week. I think looking back, I miss the pasta and the McDonald’s from Italy!
For any students getting a business degree or not, I would 1000% recommend the “Marketing in Rome” trip. You have the perfect amount of time to immerse yourself into a new culture and learn a new lifestyle while not missing out on too much back in Arkansas. Professors Molly and Heather, are the best people to travel with. They give you tips and tricks to help give you the best trip possible and give you all the tools you need to go out into the Italian
culture and learn more about possible. The whole time I was abroad, I looked at the world through a new lens and have continued to be able to do so back home.
If there was one thing I wish I would have known before, it would have been pack light! You don’t wear all the clothes you think you will wear and it’s so easy to wash and rewear outfits in order to travel around easier. Also, if you go in the summer don’t pack anything tight or thick. IT IS HOT! Plus you will want plenty of room in your suitcase to bring back souvenirs. Studying abroad was one of the top experiences of college and everyone should try to go!