Japan: Josie Pliszka
Program: UW Retail Trends in Japan, Summer
Major: Consumer Behavior and Marketplace Studies
What is your most memorable experience from your program?
My most memorable experience was the time I spent with the other students on the program. Since this was my first time abroad, the entire experience was unbelievably exciting and memorable for me; but what made it truly unforgettable was sharing it with a group of like-minded peers. From going to Disney Sea and Monkey Park to Seven Eleven convenience store runs, each instance felt so special. Every activity, meal, and moment were elevated by those around me, and these are shared experiences I will remember for the rest of my life.
What is the moment you are most proud of?
A big part of studying abroad is learning how to adapt to a new environment and think quickly on your feet. During a free day, I spent my time visiting different shrines and fully immersing myself in Japan’s culture. I am very proud of fully diving into this experience, from navigating transportation on my own to confidently exploring new areas without reliance on anyone else. This instance showed me I’m capable of being independent, resourceful, and open to unfamiliar experiences.
Because of study abroad, I have become more adaptable and confident, and have also sharpened my abilities in trend analysis and consumer insight- directly supporting my goals in marketing and merchandising.
Describe your internship, research, or fieldwork and how the experience helped advance your career or studies.
Japan’s vibrant retail landscape allowed me to dive further into merchandising and marketing strategies used by many big brands. Being able to witness first-hand the techniques used regarding how design and storytelling shape consumer behavior and buying practices.
For our fieldwork project, we were tasked with trend-spotting for a specific product category. Being able to practice and fine-tune this skill will help me in my future career by strengthening my confidence in analyzing markets and furthering my understanding of global merchandising and marketing.
How will your experience benefit you in the future? How might it affect your future career or studies?
This experience has shaped me in so many ways: it has broadened my worldview, allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals, and fine-tuned the skills I will carry into my professional career. Because of studying abroad, I have become more adaptable and confident, and have also sharpened my abilities in trend analysis and consumer insight- directly supporting my goals in marketing and merchandising. Overall, this experience gave me a stronger sense of direction and the tools to thrive in a global industry.
What is your advice for someone considering your program?
The best advice I’d give someone considering my program is to fully embrace every moment. Go in with an open mind, be willing to step outside your comfort zone, and say yes to every single opportunity. The program packs a ton of activities into two weeks, but the more you engage with the culture, coursework, and people, the more you’ll get out of it. Don’t be afraid to explore and completely lean into this experience, because it is so worth it!