Brian completed a six-week international business and marketing internship at a cafe in Ecuador. Hear what he had to say about his experience:
What was the project you were involved with here in Ecuador?
I worked with a cafe that is intending to expand its products internationally. So, I was able to help with that and investigate the international market to help expand their products out of Ecuador.
If you could describe your experience in the project in three words, what would they be?
I would say meaningful and rewarding because I learned so many things I can take with me. Lastly, friendly, because I built a lot of connections and got really close with the people here. It is just a really warm environment, and I have grown accustomed to it.
Did you have any expectations before coming here, and did they change at all?
My time here has been really good. I realized there are a lot more similarities between Minnesota and Ecuador than there are differences. Even though there are different customs, foods, etc., I haven’t had any challenges, and people have been really friendly to me. Overall, I wasn’t worried while I was here, and it was a nice experience.
If you can think of an experience from your time here that makes you smile, what would that be?
One of my cafe coworkers is very interested in learning English. He comes up to me all the time and asks, “How do you say this? How do you say this?” Connecting with someone with the same interests and being able to help has been really rewarding.
Could you describe a normal day for you here?
Usually, I wake up around 7 am, get ready, and my host brother makes me breakfast every morning. When I have to go back to the U.S. and make my own breakfast, it’ll be different. I walk here around 8 am, open my laptop, and finish the tasks I was assigned. I will then connect with my mentor to discuss what he wants me to do and what is going on with the company. Oh, and they make me a great lunch. When I leave around 2 pm, I will walk around the area and maybe go to a park. When I get home, I will relax and have dinner.
How is your relationship with your host family?
It was kind of intimidating sharing a space with a family and entering someone else’s home. But they made it clear to me that they are here to help me. We spent a lot of time together and ate dinner together. I knew if there was anything I needed, they were there for me. We also went on two little trips around Ecuador together.
Was there something that felt challenging at first?
Living with a family I hadn’t met before was challenging. I didn’t want to disturb their life, but after a while it became the new norm. It was actually easy; I think it was more of a mental battle initially.
What are some skills that you are bringing home with you?
My Spanish has improved a bit, and from a career perspective, I gained exposure to international pricing and pricing models. Just more work experience overall. I am also going to take the relationships I made here home with me.
How has this experience impacted how you see the world?
I have realized people are more similar than not. I love getting to know different cultures and seeing how people live their lives. We are all similar in a sense, and it’s easier to interact with people who aren’t from where you are from than you think.
Is there anything about the Ecuadorian culture that was different or that you might take home with you?
An aspect of the culture here that I really enjoyed was a focus on the indigenous communities here. Especially coming from the U.S., where our indigenous communities aren’t seen. The cultural events I went to here were really eye-opening.
What advice would you give to someone who is about to do the same program or a program in Quito?
I would say try to be flexible and say ‘yes’ to things. It is good to go outside of your comfort zone, but I know people have limits. Ask questions and ask for help because the people here are here for you.
Where do you feel you made a real impact?
Helping out the company, I feel I left a positive footprint in helping them expand abroad.
Was there anything in Ecuador that was a “first time”?
I’ve only traveled to a few places, but living at this altitude was different at first. I acclimated fast, though. Also, making coffee!
Anything we can improve and any last words?
Everything has been smooth, and nothing has been unclear about this program. Ecuador holds a special place in my heart, and I know I will return because I built a little community here. I love it here!
