By: Camila Batres
June 2, 2023
Participating in CAP UAE in Dubai was a truly transformative experience that provided me with valuable insights and personal growth. One of the main takeaways from my experience in Dubai was the significance of building relationships. Observing the strong connections between our Industry Partners and their extensive network highlighted the importance of fostering meaningful connections.
Being in Dubai showed me that building relationships is essential for establishing a robust professional network. This realization emphasized the value of genuine connections and the willingness to help one another without ulterior motives. It was a valuable lesson that will shape my approach to networking in my future career. Professionally and academically, I have been incorporating the skills and knowledge acquired during the program into my daily life. One crucial skill I have embraced is the art of storytelling. Recognizing its power to captivate an audience and convey messages effectively, I am now more mindful of how I present information and make recommendations. Engaging others through compelling narratives has proven valuable in both professional and academic settings. This skill will undoubtedly enhance my career search and intellectual pursuits by enabling me to communicate ideas more effectively and with confidence.
Arabian Nights with Professor Debass and Team
Participating in the CAP program in Dubai opened my eyes to the abundance of opportunities beyond the United States, particularly in rapidly developing regions like the Middle East. Witnessing the growth and dynamism of Dubai highlighted the potential for professional and personal development in diverse cultural contexts. Moreover, my conversations with our Industry Partner, Carl Manlan, Vice President of Inclusive Impact & Sustainability at Visa (Central & Eastern Europe Middle East and Africa) (pictured below), shed light on the importance of maintaining a work-life balance, a perspective that has influenced how I view my own aspirations and goals.
Camila (left), Garima and Tanya with their client Carl Manlan
One of the most transformative changes in my philosophies and habits is a shift towards enjoying the present moment. During CAP, I learned to appreciate the significance of being fully present and attentive by immersing myself in the experiences, better understanding the purpose behind each visit and conversation. This newfound habit has allowed me to extract valuable insights and deepened my appreciation for the opportunities to access important information and business insights in a foreign country. My CAP journey in Dubai shaped me into a more culturally aware, open-minded, and growth-oriented individual, preparing me for future success in my career and personal life.
