Business student returns from France with new perspective on international business

For Lamar University student Lea Walker, studying abroad in France was more than a chance to visit one of her dream destinations. It was an opportunity to expand her understanding of international business, experience a new culture and discover more about herself.

Walker, a human resource management student, participated in Lamar University's Business in Paris & La Rochelle study abroad program from May 15-28. The program combined classroom instruction with company visits and cultural experiences, allowing students to explore international business practices firsthand.

"It was an experience of a lifetime where I got to see beautiful sights, meet new people, learn more about a new culture and deepen my understanding of international business," Walker said. "Throughout the entire process, I learned more about myself and the world around me."

Walker said studying abroad had been a goal since she began her college journey. When she learned Lamar University was offering the Business in Paris program, she knew she wanted to participate.

"Paris was one of my dream cities that I wanted to visit, and I am a business major, so it was perfect," she said.

The three-credit program included coursework focused on global business practices, sustainability, tourism and international markets. Students then connected those classroom concepts to real-world experiences through site visits across France.

Walker described tours of UNESCO and the Mint of Paris as two of her favorite stops. At UNESCO - the United Nations agency dedicated to promoting international cooperation through education, science and culture - students learned about diplomacy and the organization's influence around the world.

"I love learning about the art of diplomacy and history in general," she said. "Both of our tour guides were deeply knowledgeable and interactive. I left understanding the history, processes and impact that these organizations have in France and on the rest of the world."

Students also visited Hennessy headquarters, where Walker gained insight into how a family-owned business grew into a globally recognized brand.

"I was inspired by how a small family business was able to become a global leader in the wine industry," she said. "I also learned the detailed process that goes into making their products and how each part of the process requires specialized knowledge."

Outside of formal learning opportunities, Walker said the experience challenged her to step outside her comfort zone. While she initially worried about navigating public transportation and adapting to an unfamiliar environment, those concerns quickly faded.

"I expected to be nervous, especially regarding public transportation, but after our first couple of days I got used to everything," she said. "I was also not expecting the people to be so friendly. We met many people who were very kind and taught us some French and about French culture."

The experience also helped Walker develop personally.

"I learned how to be more flexible and spontaneous," she said. "I am a type A person, so I always have everything planned out, but with this trip I learned how to go with the flow and just have fun."

Walker said classroom discussions about European business practices, laws and cultural norms took on new meaning when paired with company visits and cultural excursions. Visits to sites such as the Palace of Versailles and the coastal city of La Rochelle demonstrated how tourism, history and economic development intersect in France.

Versailles was one of the places that really stuck with her.

"It was even more grand than I anticipated," Walker said. "It was both breathtakingly beautiful and melancholic, especially regarding the history of the palace and its subsequent events. Overall, it was more than just a cool place to take pictures, but a learning experience as well."

By the end of the program, Walker said she had gained a deeper appreciation for the interconnected nature of the global economy.

"I learned how interconnected global business is and despite each country's unique business practices, we are all connected," she said.

The experience has also influenced her future academic goals. Walker now hopes to pursue another international opportunity while completing a graduate degree.

"It has made me realize that I would like to study abroad again," she said. "I am really interested in doing a semester exchange for my master's because I would love to really immerse myself in the culture even more."

For Walker, the program provided far more than academic credit. It offered a new perspective on business, culture and the opportunities that exist beyond the classroom.

"Learning about global business in a textbook is one thing," she said. "Actually seeing it firsthand is something completely different."

To learn more about Study Abroad programs at Lamar University, visit https://www.lamar.edu/international-education/study-abroad/.