Skills
Throughout my time abroad and global experiences, I developed and practiced important skills such as leadership, effective communication, organization, and independence while adapting to new environments and engaging with different perspectives.
Leadership
Throughout my study abroad experience in Greece, I developed and strengthened my leadership skills. Leadership for the Ages was the official name of the program, and it provided me the opportunity to learn leadership through the lens of history and democracy. This experience pushed me to take initiative in discussions, think critically about leadership principles, and collaborate with peers., I was able to apply and refine my leadership skills in a dynamic and culturally rich environment.
Earning my Leadership Minor through this program and additional coursework further enhanced my ability to communicate effectively, adapt to new situations, and think strategically. Whether leading group discussions, analyzing leadership case studies, or navigating unfamiliar cultural and academic settings, I learned to apply leadership principles in real time. This experience reinforced my confidence in making decisions, working with others, and understanding leadership from a global perspective.
Communication
Effective communication was essential during my time abroad, as I frequently encountered unfamiliar situations and interactions with strangers. Whether navigating local transit systems or finding my way in an unfamiliar city, I often had to ask for directions or assistance. Because I didn’t know the language, I learned to adapt by using creative methods such as gestures, visual cues, and translation tools to bridge the language barrier and effectively convey my needs. This experience reinforced the importance of clear and adaptable communication in unfamiliar environments.
Organization
During my study abroad experience, strong organizational skills were essential in managing both academic and travel responsibilities. Balancing coursework while following logistics such as transportation, lodging, and daily itineraries required careful planning and attention to detail. I had to ensure that I met academic deadlines while also navigating unfamiliar environments, which meant staying on top of schedules, budgeting expenses, and preparing for unexpected challenges. This experience reinforced my ability to stay organized, adapt to new situations, and manage multiple responsibilities efficiently, all of which continue to serve me in both academic and professional settings.
Independence
Studying abroad in Greece was a defining experience that strengthened my independence. Being in a foreign country required me to navigate unfamiliar environments, make decisions on my own, and adapt to new challenges without relying on familiar support systems. From managing my daily schedule and coursework to figuring out transportation and cultural differences, I quickly learned how to problem-solve and trust my own judgment. Whether it was exploring new cities, communicating despite language barriers, or making important travel decisions, I gained confidence in my ability to handle situations independently. This experience strengthened my self-reliance and adaptability, skills that continue to shape the way I approach new challenges.
