Thursday, June 5, 2014

Reflection of the Class

a. What did you learn in this class that you believe will be most directly applicable to understanding how the world works?

I'd have to say that the reading about backhaul and its effects of exports was the one thing I learned in class that expanded my view of the world the most. I always knew that the US imported a lot of goods from China, but I never even began to imagine how those goods came into this country, and how those ships had to return to China. That reading really broadened my view on the impact of different business decisions and the globalization of our world. You always hear that the world is so small. Truth is, the world is huge, but there is such an extensive network of connections and collaborations with other countries, that sending a shipment to the other side of the world is completely feasible; and that, on its own, is incredible. I definitely understand the interconnections of our world a lot better now.

b. What topics are you interested in learning more about, after this class ends?

I would love to learn more about globalization and the impacts that one market can have on another. I found the idea of arbitrage and the law of one price incredibly interesting and I would like to continue learning about them. I actually think I might continue learning about economics and take another econ class besides this seminar.

c. What do you think will be the most challenging for you next year, whether you're studying abroad, studying away, or studying at K?

Next year, I will be living abroad in Clermont-Ferrand, France; where I will be living with a French host family and attending classes at a French university. I'd have to say that the biggest challenge I see in my future is getting past that language barrier and communicating/understanding with my professors, peers, and host-family. I already know that I tend to close up when I am speaking a foreign language, and I'm nervous that this tendency will prevent me from engaging with any of my peers.

No comments:

Post a Comment