Transformative Italian Journey

Stepping into a new environment can be both exhilarating and intimidating. For most of my life, I had been content within the confines of my comfort zone, hesitant to push my boundaries. However, when the opportunity to participate in a global short program in Milan came my way, I saw it as a chance to break free from this pattern and embark on a journey of personal and academic growth.

To ensure I made the most of this experience, I knew I needed a well-defined strategy. Setting clear learning objectives became my roadmap for navigating the unfamiliar territory that awaited me in Italy. These objectives served as a foundation to bring structure and purpose to what initially seemed like a chaotic adventure.

My four primary learning goals were:

• Cultural Immersion: I aimed to immerse myself fully in the local culture, understanding customs, traditions, and social norms. I wanted to develop effective cross-cultural communication skills and engage in activities that would provide me with firsthand experiences of daily life in Milan.
• Language Proficiency: Language is a key to understanding a culture, so I set out to enhance my language skills by conversing with native speakers. My goal was to attain a specific level of fluency in Italian by the end of the program, expanding my vocabulary and grasping idiomatic expressions for more natural communication.
• Academic Achievement: Being in Milan wasn’t just about exploration; it was also an opportunity for academic growth. I set precise targets for my performance, aiming to actively participate in class discussions and achieve specific academic results.
• Personal Growth: Stepping out of my comfort zone was a challenge in itself. I wanted to cultivate adaptability and resilience by navigating uncharted territory and surmounting obstacles. Additionally, I sought to gain heightened self-awareness by reflecting on my personal values, beliefs, and how I evolved throughout the program.

As my journey unfolded, these objectives became my guiding lights, coloring my experiences and decisions along the way. Each day brought new insights, challenges, and moments of unity as I mingled with diverse cultures and deepened my understanding of the world.

However, something unexpected happened as I delved deeper into the local culture and values. My initial goals underwent a transformation of their own. I realized that cross-cultural interactions extended beyond mere communication and academics. The immersion in the daily lives of locals unveiled perspectives that challenged my preconceived notions, enriching my approach to problem-solving and innovation.

In light of these shifts, my goals became more inclusive and holistic. My journey wasn’t just about personal and academic growth anymore; it was about fostering genuine connections, valuing diverse viewpoints, and embracing unfamiliar experiences. My goal of personal growth now encompassed greater empathy and cultural sensitivity, enabling me to navigate the complex tapestry of our global society.

Overall, my global short program experience in Milan was a dynamic blend of achievements and challenges that transformed me into a more culturally aware and well-rounded individual. The interplay between my learning objectives and the rich cultural tapestry of Milan reshaped my understanding of education and personal development. It taught me that stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the unknown can lead to profound personal and academic growth.

Ryan Cussen
Faculty of Transdisciplinary Innovation
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy
Global Short Program Travel Scholarship recipient