Today we are on our way to Ireland! As I reflect on the Pittsburgh portion of the program, I can see my personal and professional growth from the start of the program to the current halfway point. I have accomplished tasks and assignments that are beyond the typical workload of an underclassman in college, let alone the workload of an incoming freshman to college. I learned valuable information on managing complex environments from all of the Experts in Residents at Pitt as well as our professors! As we explored the neighborhoods surrounding the University of Pittsburgh, I was not only able to gain important take aways that I can apply in Carrigart, but I also learned more about Southwestern Pennsylvania that I hadn’t known before. I’ve also gained incredible friendships in the program that will last throughout our coming years at Pitt and beyond. This weekend we were able to bond over many activities, for example, we went to a Pirates game- and a few of us went to a movie to bond further. My entire experience thus far has been incredible, and I feel more prepared for my college career, as well as my future career as I am gaining valuable consulting experience.
As we look to the future, and the remainder of our program, I am really looking forward to working with small businesses in Ireland and gaining real world experiences. I also have an interest in international business, so this trip is a very important steppingstone for my future career. I look forward to seeing the beautiful countryside and the various environments, and I am also looking forward to experiencing the culture in Ireland!