Ryan Leone, CEA CAPA in Florence, Fall 2025
Studying abroad in Florence had a slight impact on my goals and plans. Before going abroad, I was interested in finance and international business but had limited exposure to how it works in an international setting. My internship at Global Blue gave me hands-on experience in a global business environment and helped me better understand how finance and consumer behavior connect across countries. This internship strengthened my desire to stay in finance and continue to pursue a career or background that involves international business. I found it fascinating to compare and contrast the differences and similarities of an American business vs an Italian one. Working at an international company showed me the importance of communication, adaptability, and understanding different perspectives. I saw how financial decisions affect both businesses and customers, which made my work feel more meaningful. This experience confirmed my interest in pursuing a career in finance with a strong focus on people and long-term relationships. My favorite part of the internship abroad was how I had the opportunity to connect and communicate with clients from all parts of the world. I communicated with clients from every continent on the globe, and it was a truly amazing experience to be able to see how different parts of the world have different communication styles and other preferences within Global Blue. Living abroad also helped me grow personally. Being away from home pushed me to become more independent and confident in my decision-making. I learned how to navigate unfamiliar situations, manage responsibilities, and stay flexible when things didn’t go as planned. Studying abroad also changed how I think about success. I now value learning, growth, and balance just as much as results. Experiencing a different culture taught me that there are many ways to approach work and life. Overall, studying abroad helped clarify my goals and gave me skills that will stay with me long after graduation. It strengthened my confidence and confirmed my interest in a globally connected career.
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