Two Continents, 10 Countries: An International Business Major’s Study Abroad Story
Meet Kaitlyn Blanck, an ambitious International Business major at St. John’s University, who transformed her academic and professional journey through three study abroad experiences across Europe.
During her travels, she visited two continents, ten countries, and countless cities. Read further to learn more about her extraordinary experiences, the invaluable insights she gained, and how studying abroad can transform not only your academic path but also your personal and professional aspirations.
Finding Her Path to International Business Management
Kaitlyn’s journey at St. John’s University began with self-discovery. Initially set on a major in Hospitality Management, she quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit. After transitioning to the The Peter J. Tobin College of Business as an International Management major, she found her true passion.
Kaitlyn reflected, “Switching majors was one of the best decisions I have made. After my second semester of junior year, I declared my minors in event management and experiential marketing. I am proud to say that I will fast-track my M.B.A. in Marketing Management and anticipate earning my second degree in the Spring of 2026."
The Motivation to Study Abroad
As an International Management major, studying abroad is a requirement, but for Kaitlyn, it was also a personal dream. She shares, “My goal is to one day work in the experiential event marketing field, crafting memorable customer experiences and cultivating brand loyalty through unique events. Studying in Europe offers a significant networking advantage, enhancing my understanding of international clients and cultures. This experience prepares me for a career in an international company, equipping me to address any overseas challenges that may arise effectively.”
Transformative Experiences across Europe
During her time abroad, Kaitlyn had numerous impactful experiences. One standout moment occurred in Ireland when she was presented with an opportunity to work with WiiGroup, a Limerick-based International Business Consulting and Digital Contech company.
“This opportunity arose when Chief Executive Officer David Egan approached me at the Clayton Hotel. He noticed my work on Canva for my remote internship and offered me a chance to enhance my content creation and videography skills in a corporate setting,” Kaitlyn recounted. “Throughout the experience, I strategically captured moments of the team’s first town hall of the year. This event aided their company’s engagement initiative, promoted employee collaboration, and cultivated idea generation.”
Academic and Professional Growth through Global Exposure
Kaitlyn’s academic journey abroad was filled with unique learning experiences. She highlights the differences in curriculum between St. John’s Queens, NY, campus and the Discover WES semester study abroad program, noting the hands-on, immersive approach to learning.
“Taking classes abroad is a unique experience compared to taking them in Queens. For example, instead of taking all my courses over one semester, I took one to two classes per country while simultaneously taking my two online classes back home. My in-person classes lasted longer, and I had Fridays off for independent travel and exploration.”
Kaitlyn further reflected on her time in Ireland: “In Limerick, my in-person Economics class focused on migration, which I took at our sister school, Mary Immaculate College. The peaceful 10-minute stroll to class from the Clayton Hotel was a daily highlight, enriching my understanding of European policy and borders.”
She continued, “Being at Mary Immaculate College gave me a chance to make new international friends who provided great recommendations for things to do in Ireland. This class deeply enriched my understanding of the subject matter and challenged me to think outside the box.”
In Rome, Kaitlyn’s international business class was particularly influential. “We not only had lectures, but we had weekly hands-on presentations as well. Applying what we learned in class to various case studies and prompts aided in the absorption of material,” she explained.
These diverse teaching styles pushed her to think critically and broaden her knowledge of international business, significantly contributing to her academic and professional development. They also honed essential skills like independence, resilience, time management, and problem-solving.
Kaitlyn shared, “Each obstacle and triumph has contributed to my growth as an individual, making me more prepared for future challenges.”
Impact on Long-Term International Career Aspirations
Kaitlyn’s study abroad experiences have significantly influenced her long-term career aspirations. She emphasized the importance of adaptability and understanding diverse cultures in today’s globalized business world. “Living in Europe allowed me to fully immerse myself in new cultures, enhancing my adaptability and understanding of diverse ways of life,” she said. “This experience taught me the importance of openness and effective communication, which I believe are crucial in both personal and professional settings.”
She added, “I am deeply grateful to my professors Matthew Cannon, Eva Zahiri, Alberto Masala, and Nicolo Tartaglia, as well as to St. John’s, my family, and friends for their support throughout my journey. The friends and memories I made during this experience have enriched my academic path and shaped me into a more culturally aware and adaptable person.”
Advice for Students Considering Studying Abroad
Her advice to fellow students: “Take the leap and do it! As a St. John’s Student Ambassador, I always tell prospective students that there is a study abroad experience for everyone. Now is the time to go and see the world. A semester abroad is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you don’t want to commit to four months away, St. John’s has plenty of shorter opportunities, like the week-long Global Passport program. These can be a great way to get more comfortable with Europe and almost “test out” study abroad. It is an opportunity to make new friends and see the world before your world gets too complicated postgrad.”
She also offers practical tips: “If you decide to go abroad with WES, plan your weekend trips as soon as you get your schedule for the next country. Make a travel account on Instagram, so your family and friends back home can follow along. If you need any recommendations of European places to see or things to do, I am always here and would love to answer your questions (Instagram: @kaitlynblanck).”
Discover the world with St. John’s University!
Whether you dream of exploring historic cities, engaging in hands-on learning experiences, or building a global network, St. John’s offers a variety of study-abroad opportunities to fit your academic and personal goals. Learn more about our study-abroad programs and start planning your adventure today.
Visit St. John’s University’s study abroad program page for more information.
