“Japan has a rich culture with ancient traditions, matched with modern innovation, and as a marketing student, growth from this experience is inevitable. Marketing requires creativity and connection with diverse audiences. My time in Japan has been extremely fruitful because I have interacted with various groups and engaged in unique cultural activities that will prepare me for the marketing world,” reflected Eva Myatt on the Fisher College of Business Freshman Global Lab.
The group visits leaders of manufacturing, experts in logistics and an internationally renowned port in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, observing international business practices and examining the rich cultural and economic history.
“Studying abroad is especially important for stepping outside of my comfort zone and growing as a person. Growing up in a large, culturally-rich family has taught me the importance of tradition, identity, belonging and representation, and I plan to take these values with me wherever I go. By experiencing other parts of the world and learning about new traditions, I can use my knowledge to further my career and influence others to adopt different perspectives,” said Myatt.
Although the course directly highlights the BUSML 3380: Logistics Management curriculum in an applied setting, students also gain several important personal and life skills that come from learning and living in another country with a language barrier.
“I have learned that, although it takes time for me to adapt to novel situations, my curiosity empowers me to use respect, authenticity and resilience to navigate cultures and customs,” Myatt shared.
For Myatt, some of her fondest memories are related to forging new friendships with classmates on the program, along with getting to participate in the rich cultural traditions and history of Japan.
“Every history lesson, temple and shopping spree has been a blast, and the most memorable moments have been made with the friends I have made throughout this study abroad experience. I truly enjoyed the tea ceremony we attended because we learned specific things about Japanese culture, like bowing, while laughing along with Japanese citizens, despite the language barrier.”