Lea Walker’s study abroad trip though Lamar University

A handful of Lamar University are enjoying their summer after a informative trip through France. One student, Lea Walker, describe the two-week study abroad experience as a chance to visit one of her dream destinations

Walker is a human resiness in Paris & La Rochelle study abroad program this past May. The program started on May 15 and ended on the 28th and combined classroom instruction with company visits and cultural experiences, allowing students to explore international business practices firsthand

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“It was an experience of a lifetime where I got to see beautiful sights, meet new people, learn more about a new culture and deepen my understanding of international business,” Walker said. “Throughout the entire process, I learned more about myself and the world around me.”

Walker first thought about studying abroad when she began her college journey. When she learned Lamar University was offering the Business in Paris program, she said she knew she wanted to participate

“Paris was one of my dream cities that I wanted to visit and I am a business major, so it was perfect,” she said

The three-credit program included coursework focused on global business practices, sustainability, tourism and international markets. Students then connected those classroom concepts to real-world experiences through site visits across France

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Walker said her experience at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and the Paris Mint headquarters as her two favorite memories

“I love learning about the art of diplomacy and history in general,” she said. “Both of our tour guides were deeply knowledgeable and interactive. I left understanding the history, processes and impact that these organizations have in France and on the rest of the world.”

Students also visited Hennessy headquarters, where Walker gained insight into how a family-owned business grew into a globally recognized brand

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“I was inspired by how a small family business was able to become a global leader in the wine industry,” she said. “I also learned the detailed process that goes into making their products and how each part of the process requires specialized knowledge.”

Outside of formal learning opportunities, Walker said the experience challenged her to step outside her comfort zone. While she initially worried about navigating public transportation and adapting to an unfamiliar environment, those concerns quickly faded

“I expected to be nervous, especially regarding public transportation, but after our first couple of days I got used to everything,” she said. “I was also not expecting the people to be so friendly. We met many people who were very kind and taught us some French and about French culture.”

Walker said classroom discussions about European business practices, laws and cultural norms took on new meaning when paired with visits to the palace of Palace of Versailles and La Rochelle

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By the end of the program, Walker said she had gained a deeper appreciation for the interconnected nature of the global economy

“I learned how interconnected global business is and despite each country’s unique business practices, we are all connected,” she said

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The experience has also influenced her future academic goals. Walker now hopes to pursue another international opportunity while completing a graduate degree. 

“It has made me realize that I would like to study abroad again,” she said. “Learning about global business in a textbook is one thing – actually seeing it firsthand is something completely different.”

Source: www.beaumontenterprise.com