On Tuesday, the Global Business Society held an informal panel discussing and addressing students’ questions about studying abroad, encouraging them to “learn the language and culture” of different countries.
Co-presidents of GBS Manav Khurana, Christine Kim and Scott Shuffield answered questions and shared their personal experiences from studying abroad with a group of about 15 students.
“I’d definitely encourage you guys to explore places you’ve never been before, even that you’ve never heard of,” said Khurana, who studied in Hong Kong.
The mission of the GBS is to help “internationally-minded students of all majors explore global opportunities in areas of business.” Panelists said studying abroad is a key means of achieving this goal in an increasingly globalized world.
“Nowadays globalization is huge. Every company is trying to expand to every other country,” said Kim, who went to Nice through the French department. “It’s really good to have a background where you’ve been immersed in a different culture.”
For Chris Cervenka, a freshman Letters and Sciences major, this was his first meeting with GBS. Cervenka, who plans to major in International Business with a minor in Chinese language, was impressed with the panel.
“I enjoyed the leadership and the experience from the board presenting the information,” he said. “I’m grateful to have gone to the GBS meeting and learned about studying abroad, because I know connections of a lifetime will be made along with excellent credentials for my resume.”
Panelists also discussed the financial aspect of studying abroad, saying that students can take advantage of financial aid opportunities through both the university and the Smith School of Business.
“Any business student who wants to go abroad [short-term] for the first time, you get $750,” Kim said. “And any scholarship or financial aid money you’re getting now will apply to your programs abroad.”
The panelists agreed that a main objective of studying abroad is to “do things you would never imagine yourself doing,” while learning in a different culture.
“Don’t hold yourself back from doing anything,” Khurana said.