Final Reflection

Before joining the International Scholars Program, I had various international experiences but did not realize how connected they were. ISP helped me piece each experience together which led me to discover new interests and passions. I have always had a passion for travel and learning about different cultures. My most rewarding experiences from undergrad happened when I stepped out of my comfort zone and immersed myself in a new culture.

I studied Arabic for a year and a half. I decided to take Arabic to connect to the Lebanese side of my heritage. Although my grandmother is Lebanese and makes Lebanese food occasionally, my Arab side was unfamiliar and distant to me. I really wanted to dive into that side of my heritage and the Arabic classes at UF gave me the perfect opportunity to do so. Even though I did not know a single word of Arabic before the class, I knew it was an opportunity I could not pass up; when else would I have the opportunity to learn Arabic? My decision to study Arabic was a life-changing one, I grew as a student and person, made some of my best friends, and was exposed to a beautiful culture that I will admire and respect forever. I am also proud of myself for going from 0 Arabic knowledge to an intermediate level! Overall, studying Arabic shaped me into a more well-rounded student and person and truly helped me connect to my Lebanese heritage. I gained cultural competencies, became a curious learner, and now view the world from a broader perspective.

Another rewarding International experience I had while at UF was studying Italian. Growing up Italian-American, the Italian language and culture played a large role in my life. During my first semester at UF I took an Italian Grammar and Composition course, just to keep up with my Italian skills. Little did I know that course would launch me into the world of Italian Studies. I quickly began taking more Italian courses, minored in the language, and ultimately ended up changing my minor to a major. I never thought I would major in Italian Studies but looking back on my college experience, there was no better major for me. My grandparents immigrated to the United States from Italy when they were both teenagers. They moved to the US with no knowledge of English but worked hard and made a life for themselves and are now educators and Italian professors. Majoring in Italian is a full circle moment for me as it drew me closer to my grandparents. My diploma in Italian Studies will always be a reminder of the hard work and sacrifices of my grandparents.

My passion for Italian language and culture also led me to study abroad in Italy twice. From studying the production processes behind various Italian commodities like wine, cheese, pasta, and olive oil, to interning at a 5-star hotel on the Amalfi Coast, my study abroad programs helped me realize that I want to embark on a career that bridges the US and Italian markets.

With my passion for international experiences, I enrolled in a combined Master's program in International Business at UF. My International Business coursework is helping me apply practical and analytical perspectives to my love for culture. Through my Master's program I embarked on another study abroad to Buenos Aires, Argentina where I visited different Argentinian companies from various sectors.

Participating in three study abroad programs at UF is definitely a privilege that I do not take for granted. Because of my love for travel and my experiences through ISP I am excited to participate in another study abroad this upcoming fall. I will be continuing my Master's program at Bocconi University in Milan, Italy for 4 months. I am nervous and excited for this life-changing opportunity but I am confident that I am prepared for this life change thanks to the lessons I've learned through ISP. ISP gave me the tools to be a well-rounded global citizen. I am grateful for all of the opportunities and resources ISP provided me on a local and international level. I also served as an ISP Student Assistant where I assisted in ISP recruitment efforts, outreach, and advising. Being a student and advisor in ISP truly helped me get the most out of the program. The values and lessons I gained from ISP will stay with me forever. I hope to continue immersing myself in new cultures and international opportunities for years to come!