A Transformative Journey:
How Study Abroad in Paris Encourages the Development of Essential Soft Skills
By Stacie Freeman, MSSW
Traveling to Paris as part of our study abroad program at Bethel University was more than just an educational excursion—it was a profound opportunity for personal growth and the development of critical soft skills that are increasingly valued by employers. As we navigated the vibrant streets of the City of Light, immersed ourselves in its rich culture, and engaged with its history, every experience contributed to our adaptability, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding—skills essential for the workforce of the future.
Adaptability: Thriving in a Changing Environment
Paris, with its bustling streets and diverse culture, presented an ever-changing environment that required adaptability. When we discovered that the Catacombs were closed due to a strike, we quickly adjusted our plans and visited the nearby Père Lachaise Cemetery instead. This shift required rerouting our metro plans and finding a new tour, demonstrating our ability to embrace the unexpected and reinforcing the importance of flexibility in an ever-evolving world. Adaptability is a crucial skill in today’s workplace, where change is a constant.
Leadership: Inspiring and Motivating Others
Traveling in a large, diverse group often meant breaking into smaller teams to navigate the city effectively. Students stepped up as co-leaders, translators, and navigators, using Google Maps to guide us through the labyrinthine streets of Paris. These moments allowed students to develop leadership skills, communicate effectively, and rally their peers around shared goals—qualities that are highly sought after by employers.
Teamwork: Collaborating for Success
Our group activities required close collaboration, fostering a strong sense of teamwork. Navigating the metro system was a prime example; we ensured everyone got on and off the trains safely by conducting headcounts before and after each ride. Having designated group leaders prevented anyone from being left behind and reinforced the importance of teamwork in achieving shared objectives.
Creativity: Thinking Outside the Box
Our visit to the Centre Pompidou presented an unexpected challenge when we learned that our entry would be delayed due to a private event. Rather than waiting in line for over an hour, we brainstormed alternative activities. Using Google Maps, we discovered the Stravinsky Foundation, a hidden gem that became one of the trip’s highlights. This ability to think creatively and adapt plans on the fly is an essential problem-solving skill that is highly valued in today’s job market.
Emotional Intelligence: Understanding Ourselves and Others
Traveling abroad presents unique challenges. The emotional, intellectual, and physical demands can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with jet lag, language barriers, and unfamiliar surroundings. Managing our emotions and demonstrating empathy toward one another was crucial. These experiences underscored the importance of emotional intelligence in navigating both personal challenges and group dynamics—an invaluable skill in any workplace.
Decision-Making: Assessing Risks and Making Strategic Moves
Our time in Paris provided numerous opportunities to practice decision-making. On our free day, we had to determine where to go, what to do, and how to budget for it all. Assessing the risks and weighing the pros and cons of each option helped us make informed choices. Practicing strategic decision-making in this way is essential for success in any professional environment.
Time Management: Prioritizing Tasks for Maximum Efficiency
Visiting multiple landmarks in one day required precise scheduling and strong time management skills. We quickly learned that staying on schedule was crucial to making the most of our experience. This reinforced the importance of prioritizing tasks efficiently, a skill that is critical in today’s fast-paced work environment.
Effective Communication: Connecting Across Cultures
Our experiences in Paris offered countless opportunities to practice effective communication. Whether presenting insights from historical sites or engaging with local vendors, we learned how to communicate confidently while also understanding the needs of others. Strong communication skills are essential in any career, as they significantly impact professional relationships and outcomes.
Conclusion: The World as Our Classroom
As our study abroad program comes to a close, we reflect on the experiences that have deepened our understanding of history and culture while equipping us with vital soft skills. Traveling to Paris has been a transformative journey that has prepared us for the demands of the modern workforce.
By embracing adaptability, leadership, teamwork, creativity, emotional intelligence, decision-making, time management, and communication, we are better positioned to stand out in a competitive job market. As we return to Tennessee, we carry with us not just memories of incredible sights but a deeper appreciation for the learning opportunities travel provides.
Join us as we explore the world, reminding ourselves that education extends far beyond the classroom.