India: Cristal Ortiz (Our Global Classroom)
Program: UW Global Immersion in International Business in India, Winter Intersession
As I rode in the back of my Uber on the way to the airport, taking in my final view of Mumbai after beginning this journey in New Delhi, I found myself reflecting on how grateful I was for the opportunity to immerse myself in all that India has to offer.
Experiencing India firsthand, through both academic learning and lived experience, challenged many assumptions I did not even realize I had. Throughout the program, we explored India’s emerging economy, rapid development, and sustainability through a business lens, but the classroom discussions were only the surface of what India really has to offer. It’s a place that deeply contrasts and coexists, considering the ancient history alongside innovation and rapid modernization. From diversity in its people and cuisines to the variation in infrastructure and architecture.
Pictured left: Group photo at the India Gate in New Delhi.
One idea that stayed with me most was the saying “whatever you hear about India, the opposite is also true.” This phrase perfectly encapsulates the complexity and dynamics of the country. It’s a place that deeply contrasts and coexists, considering the ancient history alongside innovation and rapid modernization. From diversity in its people and cuisines to the variation in infrastructure and architecture.
Experiencing India firsthand, through both academic learning and lived experience, challenged many assumptions I did not even realize I had.
Pictured right: Cristal in front of the Taj Mahal in Agra.
Seeing these realities up close made our academic concepts feel tangible rather than theoretical. I return with a deeper appreciation for global complexity and a more nuanced perspective on business, sustainability, and growth. From my experience, India is not a country that can be understood from afar or from the media; it must be experienced to be known.
Cristal Ortiz
Program Name: UW Global Immersion in International Business in India
Major: Business Administration, Human Resource Management
Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
I chose this program because of its short timeline and perfect way to actively spend my last winter break before graduation. Immersing myself in India’s rich economy, culture, and efforts on globalization and sustainability will give me a deep understanding of how global forces shape the realities of many, and as a result, I hope it will influence the way I promote change in my community.