This May, I partook in the Fisher Global Consulting Project located in Milan, Italy. We were assigned to BIP (Business Integrated Group) Consulting. We were tasked with developing a marketing strategy for a product to be released in the U.S Market.
The project we worked on was a tool to promote DE&I across companies in the United States. Throughout the process, I gained valuable insights into companies’ DE&I initiatives and how we can drive change in the future. One crucial aspect we explored was the notion of tokenism. We wanted to ensure that our product went beyond window-dressing for companies’ DE&I efforts. Instead, we aimed to empower organizations to gain genuine awareness of their current DE&I progress and equip them with ways to enhance it.
Additionally, my experience allowed me to immerse in Italian culture. I had the opportunity to delve into Italy’s rich history and appreciate the art. Additionally, I admired the country’s family-oriented values and the slow living philosophy. This revelation served as a reminder of how, as Americans, we often neglect to pause and savor the beauty around us.
During our work on the product, it became evident to my team that Italians see America as a place that requires improvement in the realm of DE&I. The disparities in DE&I issues between the U.S. and Italy sparked many insightful and open discussions. These conversations revealed a pressing need for ongoing structural changes within corporate America regarding DE&I. However, we also realized the importance of avoiding tokenism and implementing appropriate strategies to address these concerns.
Additionally, talking with our colleagues provided an interesting perspective on the less polarized nature of politics in Italy. It fascinated me how not everyone felt compelled to align themselves with a specific side, fostering an atmosphere of diverse viewpoints and ideas.
We had several opportunities to explore cities such as Venice, Florence, Amalfi, Rome, and Bologna. Each city had its unique characteristics, yet they all shared a deep appreciation for history and art. I found it interesting that we often travel to Europe to witness old, historic things, while Europeans may journey to America to experience new, innovative, and modern aspects. Additionally, visiting family-run restaurants and markets allowed us to witness the care and intention behind every item they sold.
Coming back from Italy, I find myself with a fresh perspective. Rather than perceiving politics, history, and culture solely from an American standpoint, I now embrace a broader viewpoint. These invaluable insights will shape my future decision-making processes, ensuring that I integrate the lessons I’ve learned.
Additionally, the relaxed and family-oriented culture I experienced in Italy has left an impact on my own life. I have become more conscious of the importance of meaningful relationships, cherishing them as a priority. Furthermore, I have come to appreciate the significance of relaxation and finding joy in the present moment, realizing that it is not always about being hyper-productive.
Regarding politics, my time in Italy helped me realize that it is not about blindly aligning oneself with a specific side. Rather, it is crucial to make decisions that align with one’s core beliefs and values, standing firm in those convictions. Italy provided me with the clarity to understand the importance of staying true to oneself and making principled choices.