Hello! My name is Morgan Kaniecki. I recently completed my second year at Pittsburgh’s College of Business Administration as a double major in finance and accounting, as well as a minor in economics. This school year, I was a member of the Resident Student Association where I served as treasurer of three of the university’s dormitory buildings. I am also a member of the Chi Omega sorority with a position as the Continuous Open Bidding Chair, where I work with the executive board to plan recruitment events. I am from a small town in rural central Pennsylvania, called Lewistown. I spend my time working as a supervisor at Dairy Queen, hiking, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.
I am beyond grateful for this opportunity because it is my first time leaving the United States! Therefore, there is so much I am hoping to gain from this experience. I desire to learn of a new culture that, without this program, I would not be exposed to. As a hands-on learner I will benefit greatly from being fully immersed in the city of Florence. Learning Florence’s culture will hold great value to me and provide a new perspective of the world separate from home. I am excited to capitalize on every resource available to me, such as the cooking classes and scheduled trips. I also hope to learn about the business influence on a culture not specifically known for business.
Studying abroad is exciting to me, especially in the way that I will be able to undergo personal growth. I will be surrounded by classmates with different walks of life, so I will gain new perspectives and build relationships with new people. The independence gained from being immersed in a new location where I have to take personal initiative and the adaptability developed from having to solve problems in an unfamiliar setting are skills that would not be developed otherwise. I am certain that this program will greatly improve these skills within myself, and am eager to watch and experience the personal progression.
I will be able to use my Clifton relationship building strengths such as adaptability, positivity, and empathy to enhance my time abroad. Immersion in a new country can be intimidating, and I believe it is important to possess a positive mindset. These skills will undoubtedly allow me to better navigate any obstacle that I may encounter.
At the end of week one, I am optimistic about the rest of my time abroad. I cannot wait to see what the next five weeks have in store. Thank you for this opportunity!
