“It was important for me to go abroad because I love learning about new cultures and ways of living. I've done stints of living in other countries and never left unchanged. It's such a valuable experience to get outside of yourself and adjust to new ways of living. We all do things differently around the world, especially outside of the United States. I knew I wanted to challenge myself and improve my language skills and broaden my way of thinking,” reflected Sami Roman, an accounting major who is currently participating in the Fisher College of Business Undergraduate Exchange - Universidad Pontificia Comillas program this semester in Madrid, Spain.
Roman is building her accounting knowledge by studying in an international setting, while also learning some valuable information about herself.
“This experience has helped me realize I would like to work in international fields with my accounting degree. I love the environment where everyone is using their cultural strengths to work together toward a common goal. It's made me much more interested in how large companies work from country to country, especially in how they communicate. I've gotten to watch Spaniards work for American companies and learn how they do communication through the European Union to the U.S. This experience has taught me a lot on how to be flexible in the workplace and learn towards curiosity when it comes to others,” she said.
Outside of her studies, Roman reflects on how this experience is changing her as a person, taking advantage of the opportunities to meet new people and be fully immersed in a new culture.
“I've learned a lot about how I relate to people. This experience has taught me how to adjust to different ways of thinking. I've learned I enjoy being part of an international community where each person brings something different to the table. I've learned how to be more compassionate towards myself and others as I navigate a world I don't understand, it's humbling and bonding for the people you do it with,” she stated.
In Madrid, Roman notes that while she has made several memories so far, the one that sticks out the most is her experiences with her host family.
“I've seen some beautiful churches, castles and plazas all containing rich history. I love learning and participating in the way the Spanish celebrate their history with holidays, parades and food - so much good food. I've had the opportunity to travel to so many cool places in this country with many more to come in the next couple months. But, by far, the most memorable moments have been connecting with my host family and the friends I've made here. Exploring, eating and laughing with them has made this experience so sweet.”