It is hard to believe that my time abroad has already come to an end. Looking back at the goals I set for myself before arriving in Sydney, I am proud of how much I have grown both professionally and personally. This experience challenged me in ways I did not expect, introduced me to incredible people, and gave me a new perspective on working in a global environment. I leave Australia with much more than internship experience—I leave with new friendships, lasting memories, and greater confidence in myself.
One of my main goals was to strengthen my professional communication skills by working with colleagues from different backgrounds. Throughout my internship at SoCreative, I collaborated with a small, supportive team on projects ranging from researching U.S. market trends to creating onboarding materials and client presentations. Because the company was small, I had the opportunity to communicate directly with my supervisor and coworkers every day. This helped me become more confident sharing ideas, asking questions, and adapting my communication style depending on the situation. I know these skills will continue to benefit me throughout the rest of my time at Pitt and in future internships.
Building meaningful connections was another highlight of my experience. I formed strong relationships with my coworkers, who were incredibly welcoming and supportive throughout my internship. I also had the opportunity to attend a networking event where Senator Dave Sharma spoke about Australia’s economic future. Experiences like these allowed me to connect with professionals while gaining insight into international business. My professors, classmates, and internship supervisors also played a huge role in making this experience so memorable through their encouragement and support.
Looking back, the greatest takeaway from this experience has been my personal growth. Living independently in a new country has made me more adaptable, open-minded, and confident in my ability to navigate unfamiliar situations. It has also reinforced my interest in pursuing a career in business while showing me the importance of understanding different cultures and perspectives.
If I could offer one piece of advice to a future Frederick Honors College student considering this program, it would be to embrace every opportunity. Attend networking events, explore the city, and step outside your comfort zone whenever possible. Some of my favorite memories came from experiences I never planned, whether it was exploring Sydney with friends or learning from the amazing people I met along the way. Looking back, I only wish I had known how quickly the experience would go by. Make the most of every moment!
