When Missouri State University junior Garrett Catlett boarded his flight to France this August, he didn’t yet grasp how much the experience would impact him.

What started as a desire to see the world became a defining chapter in his academic, personal and professional development.

“The experience has been incredible – fast-paced, immersive, and full of moments that pushed me to grow,” said Catlett, a finance major.

Discovering the world beyond home

He grew up in Springfield, Missouri, but living in France for two years as a child opened his eyes early to a world beyond the familiar.

The experience shaped his curiosity, adaptability and interest in people and culture. That same curiosity later fueled his entrepreneurial drive. He grew and sold plants in middle school, then co-founded 24/7 Golf Performance in high school, completing more than 900 lessons while helping build the facility into a thriving operation.

This chapter came full circle when he chose to study at Rennes School of Business in Rennes, France, this fall. He wanted a challenge, something that would push him beyond routine and comfort. Studying abroad was the perfect opportunity.

“I wanted more ‘I can’t believe I did that’ moments and fewer ‘I wish I would’ve done that’ moments,” he said.

Finding growth through challenges

Catlett spent a month backpacking before classes began. From hiking the Austrian Alps to navigating unfamiliar cities alone, he discovered how capable he could be.

Since then, he has visited eight countries and made friends from around the world. He has also strengthened his French.

The experience gave him more than academic knowledge — it taught him adaptability, independence and resilience — skills he knows will follow him into his career.

One highlight of his semester was participating in the Marathon Vert de Rennes. When he realized the marathon would take place while he was there, he knew he had to run it.

He trained for months, despite having never run long distances before. Running 26 miles through the city he now calls home and volunteering with local organizers the day before helped him feel deeply connected to Rennes.

“I kept thinking about how blessed I was,” Catlett said. “The crowds, the energy, the community cheering us on — it was an unforgettable experience.”

A global mindset for a business career

Studying alongside students representing more than 70 countries has given Catlett a broader view of finance and decision-making.

He learned how cultural perspectives shape communication, leadership and problem-solving. He believes these insights will make him a stronger financial planner and entrepreneur.

“Business isn’t just done in Springfield,” he said. “Seeing how people from different countries think about money has opened my eyes to how global finance really is.”

A message for those considering the leap

Studying abroad reshaped how Catlett sees himself and the world. It placed him in an entirely new environment — no comfort zone, no routine, no familiar faces — and that level of challenge pushed him to grow faster than anything else.

Now, he hopes more Missouri State students will step into similar opportunities.

“You learn through action and experience, and this semester has given me that every single day,” he said. “It’s been life-changing.”

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