Introduction
Hi, I’m Sydney Langerman, a Chicago native and a senior at the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina, where I’m majoring in Marketing with a minor in Sport and Entertainment Management.
I’m driven by a passion for creativity, storytelling, and building meaningful connections through strategic marketing. Throughout my college experience, I’ve pushed myself to step outside my comfort zone and take on new challenges that have shaped both my confidence and perspective.
Through the Global Learning Pathway, I’ve had the opportunity to study internationally—experiences that have expanded my worldview, strengthened my independence, and fueled my ability to think globally in an increasingly connected world.
My global learning journey began in Spring 2024 when I participated in the Marketing in Italy program. During this course, I spent the first eight weeks studying in the classroom at USC before traveling to Italy over spring break. During this experience, I visited Rome, Florence, Bologna, Milan, and Lake Como. This trip became a pivotal moment in my academic journey because it introduced me to the value of immersive global learning and inspired me to pursue a full semester abroad.
The following year, I studied abroad in Paris during my junior spring semester. Living abroad pushed me outside of my comfort zone and allowed me to grow in ways I had never experienced before. I traveled to a different city or country almost every weekend, often independently, which strengthened my confidence, resilience, and sense of independence. Through these experiences, I developed a deeper appreciation for cultural differences and the diverse perspectives that shape how people live and interact across the world.
While studying in Paris, I took a global studies course where I engaged with classmates from Africa, Australia, Canada, Europe, and the United States. Through these conversations, I learned that culture is not defined by right or wrong perspectives but rather by shared experiences, values, and traditions. Observing different lifestyles across Europe also allowed me to reflect on my own cultural assumptions and develop a greater sense of gratitude and awareness for the opportunities I have.
These experiences transformed how I view both the world and myself. Returning to USC for my senior year, I have brought back a renewed appreciation for cultural understanding and global engagement. My time abroad reinforced the importance of embracing challenges, stepping outside of comfort zones, and remaining open to new perspectives.
This E Portfolio highlights three key insights from my global learning journey: the importance of discomfort as a catalyst for growth, the value of embracing individuality across cultures, and the role of global experiences in shaping sustainable personal and professional success. Through these insights, I reflect on how my study abroad experiences influenced my development and how global learning can create more equitable opportunities for students in the future. I’m excited to bring this energy, perspective, and ambition into my next chapter.
Create Your Own Website With Webador