Reflecting on my time in Sint Maarten has me feeling beyond grateful and optimistic. I came into this program with only two PR classes under my belt….so I felt a little behind compared to everyone else. However, with the help of our professors and fellow classmates there was no way I could feel confused or behind. PR and Advertising is something I have always been drawn to after I declared it to be my minor, but I didn’t know I could develop the feelings I did after this trip.
When I signed up for this trip, I had NO idea what to expect. I only had three expectations when coming in (for me): I wanted to learn more about PR (and if I had a future in it), I wanted to be uncomfortable (because that’s when I learn the most), and I wanted to experience a new place and culture. I can fully say, while reminiscing, that I left feeling so satisfied from all these expectations. From day one I knew this was going to become one of the best experiences of my life. Not only do I have to thank the professors and classmates for making that happen, but Sint Martin for becoming a new home. Welcoming and exciting in every way possible. Waking up each day was an adventure and a gift here. And it had everything to do with the people and their genuine selves.
Every interaction and conversation I had on the island was a new relationship that I am so
grateful to now have.
Since I’ve been home…only two days… I have made it my GOAL to express to all my hometown friends that they need to get out there and do something like this.
Having had this experience, I look at my “PR path” in a whole new light. Seeing and experiencing a different culture and how they do business shows me a glimpse into what a future job could look like for me. I can totally see myself working abroad somewhere now, or even bringing the genuine relationships and conversations back to businesses in the US. There is a difference....and I prefer the way it worked on the island.
If I hadn’t have seen that screen in Reese Phifer that said, “UA in the Caribbean”, I would still be trying to figure out what my future in the job world would look like. I can confidently say now, it will be in these areas that we learned about.
From the first interaction I had at the grocery store with the manager, to my parents coming and letting me lead the way, I had no shortage of a new confidence with this island and what it had to offer for me. I have been left feeling so lucky and grateful to have had this opportunity. I am so excited and ready to continue my academic journey with a little bit of a Caribbean flare always with me. ROLL TIDE and #SXM
Kyra Cassell
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