γεια σας! Merhaba! Hello! I’m Landon Cook and I hail from the small resort city of Sarasota, Florida, home to one of America’s best beaches, Siesta Key; however, I traded all that calm and sunshine for the urban and icy Pittsburgh. So far, I have loved every second of it! As a freshman enrolled in University of Pittsburgh’s College of Business Administration, I plan to study in Supply Chain Management, but I have approached all business subjects with an open mind. I’m still exploring what the business world has to offer and where my passions lie. I’m also minoring in philosophy since I really enjoy big picture thinking. Professionally, I worked with Southwark Pensioners Centre in London last summer, devising a youth volunteer engagement plan. This year, I joined the business organization Phi Beta Lambda, which has given me amazing social, service, and professional development opportunities. As my freshman year comes to a close with finals just around the corner, I have started to shift my attention to the next big thing: Plus3 Cyprus!
When I first saw Cyprus on the list of locations, I knew immediately that it would be my first choice. How many people get the opportunity to go to Cyprus?! It was something I knew I had to take advantage of. I remembered learning about it in AP Human Geography. It’s an amalgamation of Greek, Turkish, Roman, and British influences. Despite a DMZ splitting the country in two, it wasn’t uncommon for residents to cross over and work on the other side. One side even provides electricity while the other manages sewage treatment. It was place with such a unique situation and an incredibly diverse history available to be explored. Career-wise, it felt like this experience was built for me. Cyprus, one of the world’s most vital shipping hubs, gives me a chance to dive headfirst into the global supply chain. I mentioned earlier that I’m still feeling out the business world, so seeing firsthand how Cypriot companies function will be an invaluable learning experience. On top of that, I know what an awesome chance this could be for me, personally. I have gone abroad twice before, and both are some of my most cherished memories. The ability to embrace another country’s culture and environment is so powerful, and I want to make sure I make the most of it. Right now, I’m counting down the days because in three weeks I’m heading to Cyprus!