After months of planning, our team from Sinclair began the long journey to Copenhagen, Denmark on Sunday, May 11, 2014. We met in Centerville, Ohio, formed a caravan, and drove one and a half hours to the Port Columbus International Airport in Columbus, Ohio. We met the study abroad students and faculty from Columbus State Community College at the terminal. The two groups had never met in person. Prior to the trip, students and faculty prepared introductory PowerPoint presentations and shared them via a common learning management system called Momentum/Desire to Learn. The teams instantly set to work getting to know one another. Everyone was excited about the upcoming trip and anticipation was high.
There was a delay departing from Columbus due to runway construction at the Toronto airport. Upon learning of the delay, faculty started working to identify alternative flight arrangements. Unfortunately, the only other option we could find was a connection flight through London. We prepared ourselves mentally for potentially having to switch gears and follow this alternative route. Following an hour delay, the flight finally departed.
Upon our arrival into Toronto, we were pleasantly surprised to learn that our connecting flight to Copenhagen was delayed also. We met the students and faculty from the other two schools; Roane State Community College and Pikes Peak Community College; at the terminal. It was great to experience the warm and gracious welcome we received upon our arrival. Now that all the teams had arrived, our large group of 22 faculty and students was ready to proceed to Copenhagen.
I believe that reflection is an important component of this initiative. Part of the learning value from a study abroad program arises from problems that occur. Yes, problems will occur and effective leaders need to be prepared for them. As a management student experiencing study abroad, it is important to reflect on the following items, “What do you do when a problem like this delayed flight surfaces? How do you handle it as a leader? How can you use these types of situations to develop and demonstrate solid leadership and problem solving skills?” As a leader, your handling of the situation sets the tone for your team.
That is a sign of a successful study abroad program. The learning starts the moment you depart for the trip…
Sinclair Community College Study Abroad in Europe 
I like the blog, Chrissann.
You make some great points about handling adversity as a leader. The low stakes environment is where you can safely test your ability to deal with stress.