Reflecting back on my first year as an International Business student I am positive and happy I choose this field of study. I have learned a lot about different cultures and also a lot about myself. I have overcome a few of my weaknesses and turned them into my strengths. Throughout the year we had to complete assignments that included things like working in teams, working with a diverse group of people, following a manager, doing a logistics game, and learning alot of new skills. I had to learn how to manage my time more correctly and wentto more classes so I would stay up to date with all the courses.

The actionI took was focusing on writing down all my assignment to make sure I have everything laid out so I can plan when I need to do everything. I also have a student job which I also had to take into consideration. I was able to have a positive balance between my school work, work-life, and social life.  The outcome of these actions was that I was able to submit all my assignments on time. All my summaries for my courses have beenup to date. I have been able to work on the weekend to make a bit of extra money. I traveled to 2 different counties and visited my Family in South Africa.

At the beginning of the year, I was very shy to speak in front of people. Though out the year through all the experiences I was able to open up more and meet more people. I was able to stand in front of people to give a presentation as wel las talk more when standing in a group with friends. I was able to make a lot more friends that have been helping me throughout the year. This experience has made me more self-aware and confident in myself. I am able to feel more comfortable in my environment and this has helped me be more motivated to study.

This experience has made me more self-aware and confident in myself. I am able to feel more comfortable in my environment and this has helped me be more motivated to study. I discovered that if you put yourself more out in the worldyou will be able to feel more comfortable and confident. I learned how to communicate with different cultures and learn their language. Living in a different country has been difficult, but making friends and being part of the society and culture in Belgium has been a great experience. I am excited to make even more friends throughout the years. I am also more confident in doing assignments and knowing how to work in diverse groups.

This  helped me to realize I am able to achieve more than I thought I am capable of. I will use this to my advantage and try to do my best to make as many business connections as well as friendships. One disadvantage I have is connecting with the Dutch culture since I can’t speak the language properly but I am taking classes to improve it.

I have noticedt hat most people here accept you more easily if you can fit in with them. They also already have their set groups which they do not change from but I am lucky enough to have found really nice friends.

After the reflection of the first year, I can say I have become more self-aware and I am excited tobe able to learn more about this field of study and the adventures it is going to hold. I should watch out for not overworking myself and always taking enough time off to restore my energy.

After my degree, I want to be able to say I have financial freedom where I do not havet o worry about money. For this, I will need to work hard, be creative and innovative as well as believe I can achieve anything I put my mind to.

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