I loved my study abroad experience and I think I learned better because of it. When traveling, I approach things with a more opened mind, I want to experience everything. That same mindset translates to my learning. I also really valued the opportunity to stay with a host family. I feel as though I got a much better perspective on the culture of the country.

I learned a lot about business during my trip, which is very exciting, since I also was accepted into the business minor during the trip! We studied sustainability, supply chain, logistics, and in my specific project area, design and launch of products.

In terms of supply chain, I now know a lot more in relation to my project topic, design and launch. On this trip we analyzed the supply chain in four steps for agriculture. The first was farming and physically producing the product. In terms of design, several producers have turned their plantations into educational tours. They have designed their space to be conducive to this educational and entertaining experience, while still allowing for optimal production. For example, Hacienda Doka has designed their large plantations to produce their high quality coffee, while also operating as a tour grounds for groups. The next step we examined in the agricultural supply chain is processing. This includes packaging, which is a main design component. Packaging may be the first thing a consumer sees when buying a product. For a company such as Café Britt, packaging is very important to portray an image of luxury. It uses vibrant colors and local imagery to make the product more appealing to tourists. It is also designed to keep water and light out to preserve freshness. After processing, the next step in our examined supply chain is in retail. We learned that frequently, gift shops are designed strategically. Café Britt designs its gift shops with local elements. For example, its shops in Costa Rica use vines and other “rain foresty” elements. Additionally, they stock local, handmade souvenirs that can only be purchased in their shops. They also utilize samples, to compel customers to buy their products. The final step in the supply chain is with the consumer. Consumers interact with the design and are responsible for the success of a product. All design should be done with the consumer in mind to eliminate as many pain points as possible.

I also learned a lot about sustainability. In country we studied several businesses that run on solely what they produce, like the Riverside restaurant. This restaurant grows its food and generates its electricity, in addition to making all of its furniture. Overall, Costa Rica had a more optimistic outlook towards sustainability. They believe that change can still take place, and that even small improvements can make a significant difference.

I really valued my abroad experience, and I hope to get the opportunity to study abroad again in the future.