Continuing my career and education journey in Spain!

Lisa Toal Start Date: Jun 26, 2015 - End Date: Jul 30, 2015
  • Study/Degree Abroad
  • Intern Abroad
  • Professional Development
  • Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain

My Travel Story

by: Lisa Toal Start Date: Jun 26, 2015 - End Date: Jul 30, 2015
  • Study/Degree Abroad
  • Intern Abroad
  • Professional Development
Four years ago I had the incredible opportunity to work as a volunteer in Washington DC for His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Kalachakra event.  It was two weeks of intense study as well as working with the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts.  I learned a great deal about a whole new culture and met amazing people from all over the world.  During that time His Holiness spoke of the importance of continued education. 

I decided then that I wanted to return to school to achieve a Bachelor’s Degree.  At the time I had no idea what I would pursue as a degree.  I decided to apply to Naropa, a Buddhist University in Boulder, CO.  I was accepted and received an honors scholarship and made the move to Boulder. 

At that time I was working as a Store Manager in Retail and was offered a position at Kidrobot to open a brand new store in Boulder.  This turned out to be an incredible career move.  Within 3 months I was promoted to the Retail Group Manager, overseeing all of the retail channel.  My experience at Kidrobot opened up a whole new channel of creativity for me and re-ignited my passion for art, fashion and an unexpected talent in marketing. 

After 15+ years of working in Fashion Retail Management I realized that marketing was my next step in my education.  I made the transfer to the Art Institute of Colorado (where I also have a Culinary Arts Degree AAS) and went into the fashion marketing program.  I have been in the program for one full year and have straight A’s while working full time.  I have now been accepted into a Spring Internship in Barcelona to work in Fashion marketing.  This is very exciting for me because I feel it will expand my career even further; as well as create a new life experience to continue my personal journey.  I have already had experiences with other cultures and have found that while challenging, I love working with and meeting different people. 

One of my goals is to pursue a Master’s Degree in Strategic Brand Marketing and one of the best programs is at the London Fashion Institute.  One of the things I am hoping to gain from this experience in Spain is to get a feel for what it is like to live abroad, away from family and friends and to help influence my decision for a master’s program. 

What I also hope to learn from this experience is more about living in another country and working in a diverse culture and professional environment.   I am excited about the challenges it will bring to speak another language in a professional working environment.  I am a strong communicator and feel this challenge will be an excellent opportunity for me to expand myself.   I also look forward to applying my extensive skillset in a whole new environment.  I believe this is going to be an incredible opportunity for me to grow as a leader, student and professional.
  • Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain

Updates

2

  • First One!

    Thank you Sister! xoxo

  • Day 1

    Day 1 of my campaign!  Super excited to go on this next chapter of my journey!

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