From representing the College of Business as a Student Ambassador to representing UCF as a whole around the globe, Amaireny Lantigua strives to make a difference both locally and internationally.
She is currently studying marketing and management, and she plans on graduating in the Spring of 2020. Amaireny supports the College of Business through her duties as a Student Ambassador, as well as coordinating fun socials as the Ambassador Relations Chair. During her coursework at UCF, Amaireny has had the opportunity to study abroad and make a global impact!
Where did you travel and what did you learn?
I traveled to Hong Kong, China and learned about entrepreneurship and how to do business abroad, especially in Asia. I also learned about the similarities between business management and marketing in both Hong Kong and the U.S.
How did you learn about the study abroad program?
I was interested in studying abroad for a long time. Once I decided to get informed about the different programs, I attended information sessions and went to OPD to schedule appointments with the study abroad advisers through the College of Business. My adviser had also mentioned the Hong Kong program and I decided to go there.
How did you prepare for this study abroad experience?
It took me 2 weeks to prepare for this amazing experience, but the preparation period might be different for other students depending on their traveling experience and the documents they need. I already had half of the necessary traveling documents, so it took me only 2 weeks. The first step was a pre-departure orientation with my adviser. Then, I created a profile on the UCF study abroad website, which had a list of the tasks to complete to get ready. Some of the tasks include paying for the Global Advantage program, getting insurance documents ready, filling out forms, signing up for the class through UCF, purchasing a WiFi device or preparing an international plan with your phone provider. It also included resources like a list of things to bring to a different country and helpful apps to download. The process was long, but rewarding in the end!
What was one thing that you’ve taken away from studying abroad?
One thing that I have taken away from studying abroad, always be open to new, big opportunities and get out of your comfort zone. Do them while you are in college because now is the best time to have those amazing experiences that will stay forever in your heart as it did with mine. I was so scared to travel abroad because I had never been out of the country before, but I decided to not listen to my fear and go for it and I was rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime experience!