Berkley Svingen, the University of Montana’s Sustainability in New Zealand and Australia student blogger, writes:
University of Montana in New Zealand
No combination of words seem to adequately encompass the personal and professional growth that my time abroad catalyzed. However unexplainable some aspects of my experiences may be, they will always bring forth a reminder of how frequently I laughed each-and-every day, the rate at which my walls (so intricately built) collapsed around 20 people I had just met, or the intimate insight I gained about myself. When I look back on the past month I see 30 days of constant laughter, vulnerability, and confirmation. From these three dynamics came amazing lessons in flexibility and a reaffirmation of the powers of networking:
Flexibility
Being able to respond effectively and almost immediately to a changing external environment is a skill sought after by employers more now than ever before. Our world is rapidly becoming more diversified, globalized, and technologically advanced, thus harnessing flexibility and adaptability gives an individual a competitive advantage that in turn makes them more employable. Equally as important as being tactically flexible and adaptive is the ability to express the same level of malleability when managing one’s emotions. Living in close proximity with 20 people can result in individuals reacting in ways they may have never predicted, and unveils each person’s little quirks. Coping with these possible differences in an emotionally intelligent way can be difficult, but with a positive mindset such a challenge can be seen as an opportunity for self-growth and expansion.
Networking
“I have walked away with friendships I know I will nurture for a lifetime, with people who make me a better person through their influence.”
The business school I attend really drives home the necessity of building one’s network. However, it wasn’t until I went abroad that I entirely understood the extent of this advice, and as a result I’ve developed a much more profound appreciation for networking. In the past my perception of the term network meant a solely professional relationship. However, I’ve realized developing a network is not exclusively about forming a connection with people who can help you create and access professional opportunities. The relationships I developed on this trip provided emotional support, self-reflection, and companionship. I have walked away with friendships I know I will nurture for a lifetime, with people who make me a better person through their influence.
An example from our trip which embodies the importance of flexibility and networking is the cancelled flights that left many of us displaced for multiple days. This uncertainty was anxiety provoking, however it proved to strengthen the cohesion of our group. Those who had made it home reached out to their inner circle and generated resources for those stranded. For example, I ended up staying with the family of one of the students on the trip overnight, another student rode home with a member of our programs uncle, and our advisor and another student ended up renting a car and driving home. The power of our connection withstood the test of distance and spanned across the nation.
Above all, If you’re hesitant at all about studying abroad I encourage you to boldly dive in. It is a beautifully, personal experience that is unique to each participant. One thing is for certain, I have gained authentic insight I could not have found anywhere else.
Ramble on,
Berkley
