“Through this experience, I’ve been able to build and strengthen my communication portfolio immensely, while also gaining new skills and tools that will help me succeed in the workforce. Working with a new company in a country that I wasn’t familiar with pushed me outside of my comfort zone—but in doing so, it gave me the confidence to walk into any business environment and trust in my ability to communicate effectively. I’ve not only improved my professional communication, but I’ve also developed strong interpersonal skills, learning how to connect with people from different backgrounds, adapt to different workplace cultures and remain flexible in unfamiliar situations,” reflected senior communications major Sydney Friedt on the Arcadia Abroad - Dublin Internship Program Summer experience.
“I always knew that I wanted to go abroad while in school, but it became clear that it was important for me to go and be independent. I wanted the chance to experience a whole new culture on my own and grow as an individual in a different environment. I wanted to figure out a lot of what I wanted to experience in life while meeting new people and having experiences that I wouldn't be able to have gotten at home. I knew that stepping outside of my comfort zone would help me grow in ways that a traditional classroom or local work experience couldn’t. Being abroad also helped me become more independent, adaptable, and confident.”
Friedt worked at Marketing Network Group just outside of downtown Dublin, which specializes in advertising, social media, website development and PR services.
“I've learned a lot about myself this summer. I learned to trust my skill set and to speak up in order to learn more. I've learned how adaptable and resilient I can be when faced with unfamiliar environments and challenges. Living in a different culture pushed me outside of my comfort zone, and I discovered that I'm more open-minded and curious than I realized. I learned to navigate everyday life in a new country, manage my time independently and build meaningful relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. Most importantly, I gained confidence in my ability to handle uncertainty and to grow through discomfort,” she said.
“I think the people have truly made the experience for me. I have been very lucky to be surrounded by amazing peers who are in the same position as me and who have been willing to experience much of this summer with me. I'm also lucky with the people I am working with. I was able to walk into the company and feel instantly accepted and I feel as if they just simply want to know me and help me grow. I think also being able to see myself grow and change as a person has been insanely rewarding and something I'm going to keep with me even when I have to leave.”