GRIP, Internships Abroad Why everyone should go abroad at least once

Global experiences like my summer in Buenos Aires, Argentina, are essential because they challenge us to step outside of our comfort zones, adapt to unfamiliar environments, and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures. Living and working in a foreign country provides a unique opportunity to develop skills that are increasingly important in today’s interconnected world, such as cultural awareness, adaptability, and the ability to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds.

Working at an NGO in Buenos Aires exposed me to the complex social and economic challenges faced by the local community. This experience highlighted the importance of understanding different cultural perspectives when addressing social issues. By engaging directly with community members and colleagues, I learned to adapt my communication and problem-solving skills to fit a multicultural environment, a skill that’s crucial in today’s globalized workforce.

Living with a local family enriched my experience even further. It allowed me to truly immerse myself in the daily life of Buenos Aires, beyond what I would have experienced as a tourist. This firsthand experience of Argentine traditions, language, and values helped me build empathy and cultural sensitivity, which are important qualities for anyone aspiring to work in a global setting. It also reinforced the idea that understanding a culture goes beyond just learning a language or knowing about its history; it requires experiencing everyday life and forming genuine connections.

Traveling to Uruguay and Paraguay expanded my awareness of regional differences within Latin America and taught me to be more adaptable when navigating new environments. Each country offered a unique perspective, and this broadened my understanding of LatAm as a whole. These experiences emphasized the importance of flexibility and open-mindedness when interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds, skills that are invaluable in an increasingly diverse world. Hearing different Spanish Accents was enriching as well.

The friendships I made during my summer in Buenos Aires also highlighted the importance of global experiences and gave me a support system throughout the summer. Building relationships with diverse people from different backgrounds showed me how we can learn from each other's perspectives, break down cultural barriers, and create a sense of community. These connections are not only enriching on a personal level but also provide a network of diverse insights and a sense of family.

Overall, global experiences like this are important because they cultivate adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and a global mindset. They prepare us to thrive in a multicultural world, equipping us with the skills needed to navigate diverse environments, collaborate effectively, and approach challenges with a broader perspective.