My name is Elise Ripley and I am currently studying human resources at Louisiana State University. I recently chose to attend the IBS Summer Europe 2018 Seminar in order to gain a new experience and grow more than I could in a classroom. I had never been out of the country or on a trip with strangers before and this was something I wanted to do before graduation. The trip was a very eye-opening experience. I was able to learn more about myself, my likes and dislikes, as well as the different European cultures that are quite similar yet different from ours. My favorite city we visited was Verona, Italy. I enjoyed being in the smaller city and experiencing what it would be like to actually live there! The food, people, environment, and culture is very welcoming and family focused. Italy felt very relaxed and somewhere I could see myself living in the future if I had the opportunity. I enjoy reading, practicing yoga, finding new coffee shops, and spending time with good friends and Verona felt like a place where I could do that!
Hear more directly from Elise:
If you had 60 seconds to convince a friend to attend an IBS program, what would you say?
If I had 60 seconds to convince a friend to attend an IBS program, I would tell them that it will be an experience that will benefit you while you are there, but also when you are back home. You will learn many things about yourself as well as the rest of the world. It is an experience you will keep with you for the rest of your life.
What did you learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
From my experience abroad I learned to be confident in myself. I think this simple fact made the trip worthwhile. I was able to face new challenges and adventures every day which gave me more confidence in my own abilities. I was able to use what I have learned in the past to help me in each situation.
Do you intend on interning/working abroad in the future – if so, what did you learn from your seminar that will help you work/live abroad?
I do intend on interning or working abroad in the future. I think the seminar has prepared me by giving me more confidence in myself. I have also learned the importance of preparation as well as communication. I have always wanted to learn another language and the trip made me want to learn even more. The seminar also taught me the impact culture has on businesses; therefore, understanding the culture will help to understand business decisions.
If you have any questions email me at: eriple1@lsu.edu