Jacob Brackmann - Study Abroad Scholarship Receipient

Living in the eastern half of the United States for my entire life, I am accustomed to the practices, mindsets, beliefs, and lifestyles of the people around me. Not only am I familiar with my surroundings, but I am comfortable with them as well. Given the opportunity to study abroad, I believe my decision-making processes, problem solving skills, and overall cultural awareness would be refined and enhanced significantly. My mind has been engrained with certain principles and ideas; studying abroad would broaden my perspective in all areas of my life, as well as challenge me to experience new things and to learn from those experiences. Specifically, being a business and finance major, exposing myself to unique areas and new economic methods would provide a whole new outlook for me. People are shaped by their experiences and connections. I believe studying abroad in Rome would be a phenomenal opportunity for me to open my eyes and see what is beyond the eastern half of the United States.

Going to class, reading books, doing homework, and studying material are all routine elements of my life at the University of Alabama. While hammering home the American economic systems, regulations, and practices, my professors have exposed me briefly to the various economic and financial systems that are prominent around the world. Appreciating and learning the American economic culture through working, studying, and living here for my entire life, I realize that in order to fully appreciate and comprehend why various cultures have different economic and financial systems, one must integrate oneself into a new society and way of life. Studying in Rome would place me into a new society and way of life, which would broaden my base of economic knowledge and thinking.  Learning how businesses work is one of the most important aspects of the financial profession, yet many students do not get to experience the “real world” within the confines of a regular American classroom. This program serves as the perfect gateway for me to gain the life experiences that will aid me throughout my academic and working careers.