It is hard to believe that just last week I was interning at a non-profit in Paris. Spending over two months abroad has profoundly shaped my global perspective, and I have gained far more insight and growth than I ever could have imagined before arriving in France. This has been one of the most transformative and meaningful experiences of my life, and I am beyond grateful that I was able to contribute to an organization that creates vital change while being fully immersed in the French culture. This experience truly pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged me in all the right ways. Not only did I have the opportunity to live with a host family in Paris, but I was able to work an internship conducted completely in French, ultimately allowing me to become fluent in the language and adapt to a whole new lifestyle.
Throughout this journey, I have grown a tremendous amount on both a professional and personal level. As I mentioned in previous blog posts, my leadership skills and communication style have evolved as I have encountered new situations and perspectives. By navigating a professional environment in a different language, I have built my confidence and my ability to adapt to different environments. I have achieved a lot since my time here, and I am so fulfilled with what I have accomplished. This experience has shown me what I am capable of, and has shaped my mindset and taught me to embrace challenges that are throw in my direction.
Before coming to Paris, I had set goals of wanting to gain new perspectives, improve my fluency in French, and build meaningful connections. Looking back, I am proud to say that I have succeeded in achieving these goals. Through my internship and the relationships I have built along the way, I have developed a deeper cultural understanding and have learned to appreciate the workplace culture here. Each day in France, I was presented with an opportunity to strengthen my intercultural knowledge, and by approaching these situations with an open mind I was able to fully embrace these new experiences.
This internship has sparked my passion for working in organizations that contribute to meaningful change, and through my role at Fondation Scelles, I know that the work I contributed is supporting efforts that are truly making a difference in the world. Working in an environment that works to combat a critical global issue has shown me the positive impact that can be made when dedicated people come together to help solve complex problems and help vulnerable populations. I have a greater appreciation for non-profits and have strengthened my commitment to educating the population and motivating others to help us create meaningful change in the world.
I would like to thank the Pitt School of Business, as well as the Frederick Honors College for supporting me throughout my journey. This opportunity has been revolutionary in both my professional and personal development, and I am so grateful for the opportunity that the University has provided me. With the John R. Martinson Elevate Award and the support from the Honors College, I was awarded a grant that further assisted me in my study abroad experience. Given the generosity of Mr. Martinson and the faculty at the University of Pittsburgh, I was able to get the most out of my experience.
Most importantly, I would like to thank my parents for their infinite encouragement and support. You have always believed in me since the beginning, and I appreciate everything that you have done for me. None of this would have been possible without your guidance, and I am incredibly grateful for you both.
When I return to Pittsburgh, I will carry with me the lessons, values, and everything that I have learned along the way during my time in Paris. This program has taught me the importance of being culturally informed, as well as collaborative approaches to addressing social issues in order to create change. This experience has motivated me to work in a field that promotes equity and creates positive social impact, and I hope to encourage others to pursue international opportunities that do the same. I have developed a commitment to service and have become more culturally competent throughout this internship. The perspective and insight I have gained from my experience abroad has provided me with valuable tools and connections that have contributed greatly to my professional growth and career goals. I am excited to apply what I have learned to my future pursuits, and I cannot wait to see where these experiences will lead me.
