Penn Abroad Ambassador Lindsay Graves

Program:

• PGS: Tourism, Sustainability and Local Impact in Indonesia

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I believe my PGS was a truly enriching experience because the travel portion was directly related to the course's topics. Throughout the semester, I read about Bali, and the effects of tourism on culture, the economy, sustainability, and more. I wrote my own white paper and op-ed on similar topics, and when it came to the travel portion of the course, I saw direct examples of everything we learned throughout the course. Foundations spoke to the group about shifting toward sustainable education and tourism, we visited traditional Balinese villages, saw cultural performances and temples, and we got to engage in conversation with local university students and lecturers. This continuation of our semester’s coursework was a one-of-a-kind educational opportunity. Furthermore, PGS is an amazing opportunity to meet incredible groups of people. I was one of 16 students that traveled to Bali, and I was so grateful to have had the entire semester to get to know the class. By the time our trip came around at the end of the semester, there was a comfortability with one another that led to really engaging conversations and incredible memories.

My Experience Abroad:

At the time of my PGS, I was a freshman in The Wharton School, eager to explore a community full of culture, tourism, and opportunity. The business world is becoming increasingly globalized, so I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of tourism as a component of the global economy. To me, this PGS was a great first step at understanding international markets, and a great first step toward an international career. Corporate social responsibility has also consistently been an interest of mine, and this course did a great job of giving me tangible experience and lessons within that subject matter. Finally, aside from the area of study, I aspired to have a career in international business, and this program was one step further towards increased cultural sensitivity and a global perspective. Ultimately, my PGS provided immediate, extended immersion in relevant fields to my area of study, and it was an opportunity I could not pass up.

Other Highlights:

First, the people I met through my PGS were incredible. We became a second family, bonded not only by our one-of-a-kind travel experiences, but by our semester of learning together as well. The staff was equally amazing and ran a smooth trip with a well-balanced itinerary. Secondly, I was amazed by all the cultural activities we were able to take part in--I was particularly struck by the traditional dance performances, villages, art, and cuisine. Finally, I was amazed by the location of the PGS. Indonesia was an amazing country, and Bali a truly special island. I enjoyed being able to explore Bali during free time, witness the amazing landscapes, and meet such genuine locals. No matter how many photos you look through or books you read, nothing beats being in your country of study, seeing it firsthand as a tourist yourself.