International travel offers many benefits, including cultural exchange, economic growth, and job creation. These opportunities improve lives by encouraging infrastructure development and global cooperation. However, the rapid rise in travel has also led to cultural erosion, social inequality, and environmental degradation. Therefore, while travel can support some UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it may hinder others.
As I prepare to enter the workforce, I believe it’s my responsibility to educate myself on global issues like climate change and take meaningful action to support a sustainable future. During my undergraduate business management degree, I gained key knowledge about achieving business success. However, one issue I couldn’t ignore was how businesses approach corporate responsibility. Many still treat sustainability as secondary to core strategies. This mindset will not deliver the change we urgently need. This drove me to study abroad in Austin, Texas, known for innovating sustainable business solutions. I intend to carry the knowledge I gain into the organisations I work with in the future.
To reflect my values, I made conscious choices to reduce my environmental footprint during my exchange. I created a packing list, reviewed what I already owned, and borrowed items from friends and family. When I needed to buy something, I prioritised second-hand platforms like Depop and Vinted. If unavailable, I chose sustainable, B-Corp certified brands. For instance, I buy toiletries from Lush Cosmetics because their products are ethically sourced, package-free, and supply a portion of profits to communities that supply raw ingredients. These choices align with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
For my flights, I chose British Airways for its sustainability commitments. Through its Better World programme, BA uses Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs), which help prevent over 132,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Supporting responsible companies encourages industry-wide change, helping make sustainability a business standard, not an optional feature. This contributes to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
In Texas, I selected modules that deepen my understanding of sustainable systems: Sustainable Marketing, Global Supply Chain Operations, and International Relations and Political Landscapes. These courses will give me the holistic knowledge needed to embed sustainability into every strategic decision I will make as a business leader.
To further this goal, I applied to be a Sustainability Consultant through my host university’s Global Sustainability Scheme. This role allows me to work with companies such as Airbus, DLA Piper, and Saint-Gobain, gaining real-world experience addressing climate change at scale.
Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue pursuing international education aligned with my values. I am committed to promoting sustainable practices—not just as a student or traveller, but as a future business leader focused on creating a more responsible, inclusive, and sustainable world for all.
