Kylie Schmidt

Overall Experience

My overall experience was far more than satisfactory—it was truly an eye-opening experience. I went into this study abroad program with a general understanding of what our group would be learning about, primarily focusing on tourism and hospitality. However, upon arrival in The Bahamas, I quickly realized that there was so much more offered than I could have ever expected. What stood out to me most was the vast variety within the tourism industry. We got to see firsthand the range of hotels and resorts. Everything from the budget-friendly accommodations to the high-end luxury properties, all helped me understand how the country truly does cater to such a wide range of travelers. Each location we visited had its own, very distinct personality, along with the target audience, and set of amenities. This helped emphasize the complexity involved in the hospitality industry. In addition to the lodging experience, I was also impressed by the amount and variety of activities and dining options available on the island. Whether it was water sports for rent, cultural excursions, or fine dining experiences, there was something for everyone. This experience deepened my appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating memorable guest experiences, along with completely reshaping how I view the tourism industry. It is not just about relaxation or travel but rather about creating meaningful and adaptable experiences that contribute to the nation’s economy.

Learning experience

The most valuable learning experience I encountered during this study abroad program was the opportunity to engage directly with professionals working in the Bahamian tourism industry and seeing their excitement toward young people's interest in their lives and the industry. We talked with numerous professionals from different backgrounds and fields of work, from resort managers, servers, marine life specialists, and so many more. Every one of these conversations provided such valuable insight into their culture that no one could ever learn from a textbook in the classroom. One particularly impactful moment was during our visit to Atlantis, a major resort in the Bahamas. Our tour guide was beyond excited that we were visiting Atlantis and eager to learn about the tourism and hospitality industry. He was so excited that he showed us more than what we had requested. Instead of just the hotel, he brought us behind the scenes to the convention center attached to the resort. He was just one of many professionals that went above and beyond to teach us what we traveled there for. With this, for someone majoring in event management and not hospitality management, getting to tour the convention center was exciting and helped to fulfill my desire to learn more about the events side of things in the Bahamas. I learned the specifics of their convention center, the prices, the accommodations, room sizes, etc. This helped me to understand just how important it is to get first-hand experience and learning opportunities. Not everything can be learned from a textbook, and I feel that the hospitality and event industry applies to this statement very much.

Memorable experience

The most memorable experience I have from this study abroad experience was participating in the beach cleanup at Jaws Beach. What made this moment particularly special was two women who joined us from Blue Lagoon Island, whom we had met during our experience the day before. As we worked to clean the shore, we had the chance to talk with them and learn more about their lives, both personally and professionally. They were very excited to answer all our questions about what it is like to live and work in The Bahamas. It was interesting to hear how much they genuinely love their land along with the pride they take in their roles within the tourism industry. Our conversations went beyond just professional life, we discussed the differences between life in The Bahamas and the United States, from fast food and dining options to hotels, to what they like to do in their free time. What stood out the most was how meaningful these conversations felt. It was refreshing to talk not only about tourism but also about the everyday experiences of their lives. This interaction helped me gain a greater appreciation for both the cultural richness of The Bahamas and the privileges we often take for granted in the United States. It was a moment of connection that truly deepened the impact of the entire program for me.

What did you not expect?

I did not expect just how important the tourism industry truly is for the success of The Bahamas. When researching the country beforehand, I had a general understanding that tourism was a key part of its economy. However, I was genuinely surprised to discover just how much of a backbone it is for Bahamian life. Tourism supports most of the employment opportunities within the Bahamas. There are countless hotels, activities, food and beverage options and so many more things that require thousands of employees to run. Seeing how deeply intertwined tourism is with the livelihood and identity of the Bahamian people made me stop and think about how important it is to support sustainable tourism and the respect to have toward local cultures. Going forward, this new knowledge has changed the way I will approach future personal travels and my mindset towards the tourism and hospitality industry. I now truly understand that the tourism industry is not just about leisure and business, but rather opportunities and survival for millions of people, not just tin the Bahamas. I will also be sure to think about my choices when planning future vacations in the sense that my trip will need to be positively contributing to the location's community and culture.

What advice would you give?

My advice to other students who are considering studying abroad or pursuing a similar experience is to just go for it with an open mind and be willing to step outside your comfort zone. Even if you do not have any friends going on the trip, to still sign up because you will meet amazing people both from Iowa State and the place you are visiting. I would also give the advice to talk to locals, try new foods, and try new and different activities. Some of the most meaningful moments from my trip came from random conversations and experiences that were most definitely not part of the itinerary provided.

How has this experience impacted your life?

This experience has had a significant impact on my life both personally and professionally. By immersing myself in the different environment in The Bahamas, it gave me a broader perspective on the world and helped me grow in ways I did not anticipate. The trip pushed me outside of my comfort zone and taught me to be more adaptable and appreciative of different cultures. It also deepened my understanding of how industries like tourism can shape entire communities and economies. Educationally, this trip brought what we had learned in the classroom to life. I am such a hands-on learner that this truly helped me to understand the country as a whole. Visiting the various resorts, speaking and visiting with different industry professionals, and seeing the behind-the-scenes operations only helped to confirm my interest in the hospitality and tourism industry. As for my long-term career goals, this study abroad experience helped clarify my direction. I now have a stronger desire to learn and pursue a career in the tourism and hospitality industry. Even potentially focusing on resort management in the future. Seeing how much thought and effort goes into creating and executing travel experiences inspired me to be part of that process in more than just the event management side of things. I want to contribute to creating experiences that are not only enjoyable for travelers, but also beneficial to the communities that host them.

How did you learn about this experience?

I first learned about this international opportunity through my advisor (Chad Reis). I switched into the Event Management program partway through my first semester here at Iowa State. During our meeting about what courses I would be taking throughout my next four years, he asked if I would be interested in doing an international study in the Bahamas. I was beyond excited when he brought this up because I have always wanted to study abroad and travel to the Bahamas.

International Connections