Winter semester has just begun but students at Brigham Young University’s Marriott School of Management are already gearing up for this summer’s study abroad programs hosted by the Whitmore Global Management Center.
To build buzz the center hosted two fairs highlighting this year's international experiences in Europe, Asia and Latin America.
“It’s great to have students come and learn more about the study abroad programs,” says Cynthia Halliday, managing director of the GMC. “It’s one thing to read a flyer, but actually talking with other students that have experienced these trips is so important.”
The fairs focused on the distinctive characteristics and opportunities that business study abroad opportunities present — learning to navigate international business waters while still experiencing a unique cultural immersion.
During their weeks abroad students visit with upwards of 20 companies and meet with top business executives from industry leaders, such as HSBC, DHL, Maserati and Petrobras, along with start-ups and social entrepreneurs. They spend time networking and experiencing firsthand the expat lifestyle.
“My favorite business visit was with the IOC in Switzerland,” says Sarah Kruitbosch, a senior in marketing from Layton, Utah, who participated in the Europe Business Study Abroad. “They explained to us the different aspects of hosting the Olympics, such as broadcasting rights and marketing the event. I’ve been able to apply so much from what I gained during that experience to my classes.”
It’s not just business, though, for the traveling students. An international excursion isn’t complete without experiencing the culture. Students spend time during the trip touring famous sights, enjoying the food and meeting with locals.
“Going to the Great Wall was surreal,” says Trevor Johnson, a senior in organizational behavior and human resources from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, who went on the Asia Business Study Abroad. “It’s a place you’ve heard about your whole life, but you never think you’ll actually get to be there. Seeing so many sights along with learning successful international business strategies made my study abroad an invaluable experience.”
The Marriott School is located at Brigham Young University, the largest privately owned, church-sponsored university in the United States. The school has nationally recognized programs in accounting, business management, public management, information systems, and entrepreneurship. The school’s mission is to prepare men and women of faith, character and professional ability for positions of leadership throughout the world. Approximately 3,000 students are enrolled in the Marriott School’s graduate and undergraduate programs.
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Writer: Spencer Wright