My name is Heather George and I am a rising senior in the Pitt Business School. I am majoring in Marketing with a certificate in Digital Media. I am so excited to be starting my summer studying abroad through Pitt GBI in London. My first experience studying abroad was the Plus3 Program in Costa Rica where we learned about coffee and banana production and exportation. I love to travel, be immersed in foreign cultures, and explore new places. On the weekends, you could find me reading at a park, dining at a Middle Eastern restaurant, or walking around cute neighborhoods! Over the next six weeks, I plan to frequent all the local cafes and street markets with my friends. During my junior year at Pitt, I maintained a year-long internship at a Marketing and Communications firm. I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to further my industry experience in London, at a luxury travel magazine company! I will be interning there over the next six weeks and contribute to their tourism newsletter, PR write-ups, social events, and more. Back on campus, I am involved in the Middle Eastern Student Association (Menasa), Sailing Club, and Arts club. In Menasa, we plan cultural events ranging from international expos to chai & chat hangouts.

I am doing the Pitt GBI internship program over the next six weeks in London. I felt this program was the best fit for me because I wanted to have another working experience. It helps me understand what career and industry I would want post-graduation. It also is a nice balance of class work and internship hours, so I can get the proper credits I need. London always seemed like a dazzling city with endless opportunities, cultures, and influences. I knew I could feel at home in this multicultural city and never run out of activities to do and sights to see!

I hope to immerse myself in the London business culture and experience life as a local in Kensington. For me, this means contributing creative and effective ideas at work, cultivating professional relationships, and being diligent in my CEA CAPA studies. I will also strive to be immersed: supporting local businesses, taking advantage of public transportation/parks, and taking part in British customs (even if it’s outside of my comfort zone!).

I will use adaptability and communication to fit into my work place, while staying true to strengths. My attention to detail and strong point of focus will guarantee efficient contributions throughout the next six weeks of work and classes. Ultimately, my sense of positivity will allow me to make the most of London, alongside my peers, in six weeks!