During the Fall of 2023, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Córdoba, Argentina. From mid-July to the end of November, I spent five months immersed in a culture that expanded my academic and personal horizons. As part of Clemson University's partnership with Universidad Blas Pascal, I enrolled in various courses and completed an internship. Living with a host family allowed me to fully immerse myself in the language and culture, making this experience truly transformative. The program's first month was dedicated to acclimating to the local dialect and understanding the cultural nuances of Córdoba. This was a critical phase, especially in grasping the linguistic differences between Argentine Spanish and those spoken in other regions. "vos" instead of "tú" was the most prominent example. This initial immersion helped me adjust quickly before diving into my regular classes and internship. My course load was diverse, ranging from business-related subjects to literature, providing a well-rounded perspective on Argentinian culture and academic life. My internship was with Briste, a software development company based in Córdoba that works to combine agriculture and tech. I worked in the marketing department and directly under two of the company's founders, completing 140 hours three days a week. Our primary focus was to improve communication with new clients and improve records for Briste. This included keeping internal records, communicating with new clients while onboarding them into Brix, assisting with developing the Briste app in English, and assisting in research for Briste to ensure compliance with Canadian language laws as Briste is working to enter the Canadian market. These tasks improved my professional skills and deepened my understanding of workplace dynamics in Argentina and Latin America, where a more relaxed and personal approach to work is emphasized.

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Despite my academic and professional commitments, I had ample time to explore Córdoba and its surroundings. My host sister and local friends regularly invited me to family events in the nearby mountains, where I experienced traditional Argentinian asado and engaged in meaningful conversations with her family. These gatherings, set in scenic rural landscapes, offered me insights into Argentine rural life and exposed me to diverse perspectives on the country's political situation. Through trips organized by the program, we visited places like Jujuy and Buenos Aires, which enhanced my understanding of Argentina's rich history and diverse ways of life.

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One of my favorite aspects of Córdoba was the people, their multiculturalism, and their love for the arts. Some of my best memories were formed at a small Arab restaurant called La Zete, where I often enjoyed meals—whether alone, on a date, or having dinner with my friend Shelby. The atmosphere there truly reflected the vibrant cultural tapestry of the city, making each visit unique.

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The Teatro del Libertador General San Martín exemplifies Córdoba's artistic passion. With its beautiful early 1800s architecture, this stunning venue hosts various events, including opera, Beethoven concerts, and ballet performances. My friends Lu, Agos, and Shelby often joined me for these cultural experiences, and we always left feeling inspired by the incredible talent on display. I also have a cherished memory of attending a Beethoven concert with Shelby, where the music resonated even more deeply within the theater's historic walls. Sharing these moments with friends who truly appreciate the arts was wonderful.

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My primary goal in this study abroad experience was to improve my Spanish proficiency, especially professionally, through my internship. This goal was undoubtedly met, as my spoken and written Spanish fluency increased significantly during my time in Córdoba. My understanding of international business grew as I observed the importance of cultural context in the workplace.

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One of the most striking differences I noticed was the Argentinian approach to work. In the United States, professional relationships tend to remain formal, with clear boundaries separating work from personal life. In Argentina, however, work is more relaxed, and building personal connections with colleagues is highly valued. It was common for employees to visit their bosses' homes or exchange gifts such as wine. I experienced this firsthand when my boss invited me to her mountain home for a weekend. This experience allowed me to bond with her personally, and I quickly realized the importance of such relationships in the Argentinian professional environment.

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Another cultural difference that took some adjustment was the lack of emphasis on punctuality. In Argentina, being late to social gatherings is acceptable and expected. Arriving an hour late is standard and not frowned upon, whereas in the U.S., punctuality is seen as a sign of respect. This laid-back attitude toward time was initially challenging for me as someone who values punctuality. However, I soon adapted and began to appreciate the flexibility and spontaneity that comes with this cultural difference.

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Meals in Argentina also occur much later than I was used to, with dinner typically served after 20:30 PM. While this was initially difficult to adjust to, it soon became one of the most cherished parts of my day. Dinner was a time to engage in deep conversations with my host mom and sister. We would discuss our day and practice expressing complex ideas in Spanish. These evening meals played a crucial role in enhancing my language skills and cultural understanding.

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While there were many differences between Argentinian and American cultures, I also noticed some similarities. One prominent similarity was the political divide within the country. Conversations around politics were frequent, and much like in the U.S., there was a desire for long-term economic success. This was particularly interesting given Argentina's historical focus on social welfare programs rather than economic growth. Witnessing these discussions provided valuable insights into Argentina's political climate and financial challenges.

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Reflecting on my study abroad experience, I realize that it was an enriching journey. Not only did I improve my Spanish proficiency, but I also gained a deeper understanding of the cultural differences that shape international business. The discomfort I initially felt when confronted with unfamiliar customs gradually gave way to a greater appreciation for the diversity that makes each culture unique. This experience has made me a more well-rounded student and a global citizen, ready to embrace future opportunities in international settings. I am grateful for the lessons I learned, the people I met, and the memories I created in Córdoba—an unforgettable chapter in my life. 

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