Take the Plunge!

I stood teetering over the waterfall’s edge, petrified by the enormous distance between me and the water below. After a long time confronting my fear of heights, I suddenly had an urge of bravery and took the plunge into the freezing water. As the current rushed over my face, I realized this was where I was supposed to be.

I almost didn’t go abroad; the U.S. provided a sense of familiarity that I was anxious to give up.  I clung to this fear for the first few days in Italy, struggling to adjust to the new normal. It wasn’t until this moment of achievement that I recognized how much I had already grown.

Flash forward, and it’s been about a week since the conclusion of the CIMBA summer program. Although it felt like only days, my time in Italy has proven to be one of the most profound experiences of my life. It has reshaped my outlook on life and led to significant academic, cultural, and personal growth.

Academically

At CIMBA, I took two business courses: Global Economics and Introduction to Marketing. Admittedly, I fully expected to breeze through these classes and focus on the fun aspects of being abroad, such as long dinners and extensive traveling.

However, I quickly realized this wouldn’t exactly be the case. Mondays to Wednesdays, classes would run for about 6 hours a day. Thursday was an early dismissal, with classes finishing around noon. This was substantially more class time than I had anticipated. However, it proved beneficial in fully understanding and applying the content of my classes.

I also found that my global economics class was pivotal in challenging my financial preconceptions and broadening my knowledge of international trade and its complexities. I enjoyed the class so much that I decided to add a minor in economics at my home university. You may similarly find a new passion amidst your academic journey abroad.

Another surprising element of academics was the on-site company tours. This provided an incredibly unique opportunity to utilize our class knowledge and ask questions to fully understand the global business landscape. I gained such a passion for international business from these experiences, and I encourage you to take them seriously to advance your academic path.

Culturally

While classes were important, the long weekends meant lots of travel. During my time at CIMBA, I was able to travel to Croatia, Rome, Florence, and Milan. Although it's simple to just be a tourist in these areas, I challenged myself to connect with the area’s culture more deeply.

At each location, I talked to locals, toured a place of significance, and found authentic dishes to enjoy. I even got to make my own pizza at a traditional shop! In doing so, I learned so much about different traditions, cuisines, and general ways of life.

Among the most formative interactions was my conversation with a local student in the Paderno area. I learned about his misconceptions about America and confronted my own about Europe and Italy. Most importantly, I gained an insider perspective into the customs of Italy.

I was informed about the role of food and leisure in Italy. Specifically, they view dinner as a social event to enjoy and relax with others. It’s not unusual for these dinners to last upwards of 3 hours!

In America, I often rush through meals, so I took this as a chance to slow down and experience Italy’s cuisine in the way locals do. Savoring my limited dinners in Italy sparked conversations that allowed me to connect more deeply with my classmates and enjoy the beauty of Italy and its breathtaking landscapes.

Overall, this interactive exposure to new cultures helped me embrace differences more easily and even incorporate new customs into my life.

Personally

One of my major personal goals for studying abroad was to grow my self-confidence and independence. I wanted to gain experience in being self-reliant and learn how to organize and plan logistics effectively. By navigating international travel solo and self-planning trips to new countries while sticking to a budget, I more than accomplished this goal!

I also found various other opportunities for personal growth at CIMBA. Primarily, through the close-knit community, I was able to form so many new connections with people I now consider lifelong friends.

Unexpectedly, the lack of reception also allowed me to disconnect from technology. By being unplugged, I grew to appreciate and value the views of Italy and, consequently, experienced the country more fully. Now back in America, I try to incorporate less screen time and focus on valuing the little moments.

Takeaway

CIMBA is not just a fun summer experience but a catalyst for growth. From developing academically, immersing in diverse cultures, and gaining personal independence, this journey has been lifechanging. To anyone doubting if they should embark on this journey—take the plunge! You won’t regret it.