My Study Abroad Experience
In my junior year, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Florence through the CSUIP program. This immersive experience allowed me to live like a local, truly embracing Italian culture, language, and history. It also gave me the chance to learn about international business, as I observed firsthand how European markets, particularly in Italy, operate differently from those in the U.S. Whether through casual conversations with locals or exploring local businesses, I gained insights into the nuances of global trade, commerce, and the economic interconnectivity between countries.
During my time abroad, I traveled extensively, visiting breathtaking destinations such as Cinque Terre, Pisa, Sienna, Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, and many more. Each city added a layer to my understanding of Europe’s rich diversity, while also teaching me how to navigate new environments independently.
A particularly rewarding part of my experience was participating in a language exchange program. I was paired with a local middle schooler, Vale, whose family graciously welcomed me into their home for weekly dinners. Through these interactions, I not only deepened my understanding of Italian customs but also shared my own Indian heritage. We bonded over shared meals, olive-picking adventures, and even met their extended family and pets. These moments stand out as highlights of my time in Italy, as they transcended language barriers and forged lasting connections.
Studying abroad also taught me important life skills. From budgeting my finances to planning international trips, I learned to manage my responsibilities independently while making the most of my time in Europe. When my parents visited me during Thanksgiving, we all shared an unforgettable meal with Vale’s family, blending our cultures into one memorable experience.
My time abroad enriched my perspective, making me more adaptable, curious, and open to new experiences. It reinforced my love for learning through travel and shaped my approach to both personal and professional challenges.
LEAP Ambassador, CalPoly SLO
LEAP is a 10-week product management certification course designed for individuals of all experience levels. When the founders approached me with the idea, I immediately recognized its potential to fill a critical gap in student education. As someone passionate about product management but without access to formal resources at my college, I felt a strong personal connection to the mission. There were no product management courses or clubs on campus, and I took the initiative to start the process of launching a PM club before I graduated.
Seeing how crucial this program could be for students like myself, I joined LEAP to assist with market research and outreach. My goal was to help spread awareness about the field of product management, which many students hadn't heard of, or had misconceptions about. Through my contributions, I played a role in bringing this resource to students who were eager to learn about the field in a structured, meaningful way.
In addition to conducting market research, I became a student in one of the first cohorts of the course. The experience was incredible. I worked on a capstone project from scratch, creating a 1-pager, product strategy, roadmap, PRD, and design, which I then presented to the class. The course also introduced me to essential product management tools like Miro, JIRA, SQL (in a data analysis class), and Figma. I learned key terminology and concepts while applying everything hands-on, which not only enriched my understanding of the product lifecycle but also prepared me well for the job market and hiring season.
LEAP was not just about assisting with outreach—it was a personal and professional growth journey. By the end, I had gained invaluable skills, created a capstone project I was proud of, and felt equipped to pursue opportunities in product management with confidence.