My study abroad has ended, and I am so thankful for all the memories I have shared, everything I have learned, and the connections I have made. In today's world it is important to have connections because I am always hearing its all about "who you know" when looking for a internship or a job. On this trip we heard from many professionals who each had an impact on me and taught me what its like to work in the sports journalism industry. In addition to the speakers, I became much closer with the people on my trip. I believe these connections is what changed me the most, because of the unique experiences I had with each and every single person on the trip. I will now be able to take these connections and experiences into the real world, and hopefully change other peoples lives like mine was.
Before this trip I was friends with many of the people coming, but after spending a month together we were more than friends, we became a family. Sadly we all knew the time would come and go our separate ways. The people who I traveled with may very well be my colleagues, and the memories we all shared with one another, we will remember and be able to help each other in the future for years to come.
The 10 Rue de Duras Boys
When we arrived in Paris, and saw who my roommates where going to be, I knew that it was going to be a good trip. We got along perfectly and did almost everything together. Having a strong relationship was important for the trip because it made everything else so much easier. We had similar interest and became very close with each other.
We all came from different places, yet instantly got along and became good friends. We pushed each other to try knew things and went out of our way to make sure everyone got to do what they wanted. No one was left out, and we were always there for each other.
Traveling to London, watching the French Open and much more would not have been the same experience with out the 10 Rue de Duras boys. We will continue to be close and help one another because of the impact we had on one another.
I have learned to go out and meet people, and establish relationships because you never know the next journey and adventure you might find.
Learning something new
Up until this trip, I have traveled on trips where it is very focused around Judaism. A lot of what we saw was centered around Catholicism. I welcomed this change because I saw it as an opportunity to learn about something different and interesting. Being one of only two and a half jews, I had to turn to my friends when I had questions. Seeing Norte Dame and touring the Vatican opened my eyes to so much history and gave me perspective on how similar we all are.
Everyone was so helpful and understanding when I had questions. It didn't matter we all came from different cultures or believed in different things, we all came together and connected.
I now have a better understanding of something I didn't know a lot of about, and was even able to teach others about my culture. This was a good change for me that I think will be very beneficial later in life and will help me moving forward.
Professional impact
It wasn't until recently before this trip, that I found what I wanted to do with my career. Being a journalism major gives me many opportunities to find a path and follow it. Having a concentration in sports allows me to follow a life long dream and passion. I thought I wanted to be a reporter or a broadcaster, but I soon saw that it wasn't for me. Working in media relations and communications for a sports organization and team is something I want to do even more now.
This trip exposed me to all kind of different jobs and opportunities, taking what I have learned from my journalism classes and being able to apply that in so many fields. From the places we visited to the people we spoke with, I saw first hand what it takes to make it in this industry. There is no straight path and sometimes you will find yourself wanting to give up but you have to keep pushing yourself until you find what you love.
Thank you Professor Gerstner and Professor Haimeral for all you did on this trip, and making it one to remember. I will always remember the experience and all I learned. Every experience was different and created a lasting memory that I will have forever.
To all my friends who I was lucky enough to share this journey with, thank you. Thank you for teaching me that I should delete old tweets when I was a Michigan fan. Thank you for all the jokes, and the late nights just talking and listening to music. It all meant so much to me.
Go Green
Until next time....
