Passport to Possibility: Rucks International Scholars

Kennedy Crouse 

BS Management with a concentration in strategic leadership
ESCI International Business School | Barcelona, Spain
January - March 2025

"Studying in Barcelona was a transformative experience. Immersing myself in Spanish culture helped me develop adaptability, independence, and cultural awareness, skills that are invaluable in today's business world. I had the opportunity to take courses in international business, cross-cultural management, and marketing research. I learned how to engage with and respect others, despite cultural differences, while developing leadership and communication skills by interacting with students and professionals from around the world. The academic program at ESCI International Business School broadened my perspective and helped me understand how business practices vary across countries. 

Living in Barcelona pushed me to grow personally. Navigating public transportation, ordering a coffee in Spanish, and networking with other students taught me to approach uncertainty with confidence and curiosity. My experience abroad helped me grow not just as a student but as a future leader. I am incredibly grateful for the support of the Rucks International Scholars Award, which made this life-changing opportunity possible." 

Joseph Perez

BS Management with a concentration in human resource management
Manchester, England | Manchester Metropolitan University
January - July 2025

"At Manchester Metropolitan University, I learned new perspectives in management. The classes opened my eyes to a different way of thinking as I studied cultural and professional norms in a new environment. I became good friends with one of my professors, who recommended places around Manchester to explore the city's historical and social aspects. These experiences, along with interactions with classmates, helped me understand how to navigate cultural differences.

I became more independent, improved my communication skills, and gained a new perspective on cultures. I lived in a flat with seven other students, each with drastically different personalities, and interacting with them helped me realize my career goals. I want to be in a managerial position that involves helping fellow employees  achieve their goals. I realized that being able to interact with anyone is an aspect of my life that I am proud of. I want to utilize that in my future career. 

I was also able to visit Cologne, Germany; Dublin, Ireland; and London, England, where I met new people and explored their ways of living. While I was in Cologne, German Mardi Gras was taking place. It is more subdued than Mardi Gras in Louisiana, but it was full of parades and fun activities. In Dublin, I explored Dublin Castle, the Guinness Storehouse, and Dublin City Centre. I have grown as a person and will always remember my study abroad experience."

Natalie Wagaman

BS Management with a concentration in human resource management
Winter Europe: London, Paris, and the Hague | Global Learning Opportunities
Winter Break 2024-25

"It is quite easy to say that my time in Europe provided not only an amazing opportunity to explore multiple cities, but the journey also offered me countless insights into various businesses. I gained a cultural understanding and in-depth knowledge of companies I would never have learned about otherwise. In London, I created many fun memories with other students. We visited the five-story Waterstones near Soho to enjoy high tea. It featured tea, a glass of champagne, scones with clotted cream and jam, finger sandwiches, and pastries. In Paris, I visited Shakespeare & Co., took a guided tour of Versailles Palace, and had an audio-guided solo excursion to see Monet's water lilies. When I was in the Netherlands, I visited Den Haag pier to ride a Ferris wheel over the ocean at night and attend the Amsterdam Farmers' Market. There were many more experiences I had on this trip, and whether I was alone or with others, I was able to create lasting mental souvenirs.

My favorite experience occurred when I was in Paris on a walking tour of the city. About halfway through the tour, we began the long walk towards the Louvre, and it started pouring rain. After we had become completely soaked, we made it to the end of the Jardin des Tuileries, and the rain had finally stopped, leaving behind a double rainbow that shone over the Louvre. Walking around the city after this showed me the beauty of Paris and left a long-lasting impression on me."

Avery Watts

BS Management with a concentration in human resource management
Manchester, England | Manchester Metropolitan University
January - May 2025

"My time living in the United Kingdom was nothing short of amazing. I was able to connect with individuals from all over the world and further my management knowledge. It challenged me to put myself out there and explore how other people live. I learned how to navigate different cultures and develop new ways to manage people from diverse cultural backgrounds. This experience has completely changed my life. I will always be able to apply all the skills I have learned to my profession."