Hi, my name is Emma Schneider! I grew up in Hanover, Pennsylvania, but have been living in Pittsburgh the past 4 years while attending the University of Pittsburgh. I am set to graduate in this coming fall and I am majoring in human resources, minoring in economics and pursuing a certificate in sports management. In my free time I like to paint, read, thrift clothing, go on walks, work out, and spend time with my friends. During the school year, I also work as a part-time line cook at a taco shop where I have learned a lot about time management and created bonds with coworkers I never expected to meet in college. 

Traveling to Sydney will only be my second time out of the country so I am very excited to explore. I will be participating in the GBI Sydney Sports program studying sports management while also interning for Pumas Hills FC, which is a kids soccer club. Ironically, I will be working as an intern in the marketing department for the club. Although I am not majoring in marketing at my university, the job interested me as I hope to be working with their merchandise, websites, etc. to increase awareness. A few goals that I have for the duration of this program are to say yes to as many (safe) things as possible, create lasting friendships with the other students abroad, explore as much of the city as possible, improve my communication skills both professionally and socially, and experience living in a different culture. I am also excited to take classes in Sydney and see how they differ from class in America, so I can use those skills throughout the rest of my education and later in my future career after returning home. I overall chose this program because of the positive feedback I have heard from previous participants and my academic advisor and because it helps me accomplish the certificate that I am striving for. I also think it is such a neat opportunity to not only take classes, but participate in an internship as well. Australia has been a dream destination of mine so it worked out perfectly. I feel the culture has a lot to offer and there’s so much I want to learn! 

My top five Clifton Strengths include 1. restorative, 2. discipline, 3. harmony 4. responsibility and 5. consistency. Using my restorative qualities, I can use problem-solving and coping skills to adapt to the new environment I will be in for six weeks. My discipline and responsibility will hold me accountable to do my work and do it well, while also finding the right balance to having fun and enjoying my time there outside of work and school. Harmony will assist me in making friends and creating bonds in addition to using this strength to produce successful teamwork during projects, presentations, etc. Lastly, my consistency will help me create new healthy habits as I navigate this adventure on my own (with the help of new friends) and portray me as a reliable teammate, classmate, friend, or colleague. 

I am beyond excited to begin this journey and update you along the way!