Culture Shock? That’s Right, I’m Back in Boston
I came back to the States a little over two weeks ago, and my does time fly. Earlier this September, I flew from Zurich to New York City to Boston. After a 9 hour flight, I made it to New York, only to sit out a layover for another 4 hours, and then take a plane to Boston for all of 30 minutes. It wasn’t the most desirable way to spend my day, but I survived, sleep deprived, with open arms from my greeting committee (my boyfriend) at Logan.
I had a a bit of a culture shock coming back to my home. I kind of forgot that people litter, buildings are made with concrete, and it’s weird to say hello, or even acknowledge someone you are walking by. Well, Boston, I’m making an effort to bring the European spirit here.
I did get a little Boston Sports fix, when I watched the Bruins Training Camp with the cup champtions. It’s always amazing to me how Boston fanatics are FANATICS about their sports. I didn’t see much of this kind of zeal in Switzerland except on August 1st, their national Holiday.
Now, while hunting for my first real job to kick off my career, (which, by the way, has been a fun challenge for me), I have been reflecting on invaluable skills I learned in Switzerland and at ICON-Worldwide. I learned how to travel (challenging when you don’t speak the language), and how to communicate, collaborate and revise more effectively in the work place. But I suppose the most valuable skill I took from the whole experience was learning not to be afraid to take chances, and try anything new. Every day was a new experience, and I think it took courage for all of us #iconinterns to leave the boundaries of our comfort zones. Perhaps this healthy risk taking is what bridges life and work, and makes it interesting and fulfilling. And now that I have more developed skills I’m more excited for the future, leading with a running start. Let the USA design challenges begin!
