Over the winter 2024 term, Robert H. Smith School of Business students participated in faculty-led, short-term study abroad programs organized by the Center for Global Business. The programs, offered to both undergraduate and MBA students, reached destinations across the globe, including the United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Italy, Thailand, Singapore, Portugal, and Morocco. The opportunity provided students with firsthand exposure to global business practices and international markets by focusing on topics such as commerce, innovation, technology, and sustainability.
United Arab Emirates
Led by Julie Pavlosky, senior finance lecturer, this program explored key financial and market issues in the UAE, including Islamic and regional finance. Students gained firsthand experience in the country’s thriving business environment while immersing themselves in its rich culture. Dubai, known as a global hub for tech, finance, and innovation, provided students the opportunity to visit the Dubai International Financial Centre and meet with industry leaders at companies such as Google Dubai, Emerson, and Dubai Holding Entertainment. Students then traveled to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, where they explored the city’s economic and cultural significance with visits to the Abu Dhabi Global Market, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Ferrari World.
London
Under the guidance of John Bono, clinical professor of information systems, students explored how information systems drive digital transformation within the U.K. technology sector. Students gained hands-on experience in topics such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. With the London-based event management company Together, students applied their knowledge, using real-world data to optimize event planning, enhance customer experiences, and develop strategic recommendations. The course also explored key information systems topics, including data ethics, privacy law, and the impact of the U.K.’s General Data Protection Regulation, through visits to global tech leaders such as Accenture and Microsoft.
MBA: Asia
From January 4 to 12, MBA students traveled to Bangkok and Singapore to explore the economic, financial, social, and cultural landscapes of these key financial hubs. Bangkok is a major financial hub in Southeast Asia, with a growing technology ecosystem and influence on global trade. Singapore, known for its innovation-driven economy and political stability, has a strong presence in banking, investment, and trade. Students visited top global companies, including AWS, FedEx, and Coca-Cola, to gain insight into the challenges and opportunities businesses face within the region’s complex economic environment.
Italy
The Interdisciplinary Business Honors Program, led by David Ashley, adjunct professor, traveled to Italy to learn about luxury branding in the era of sustainability. The program examined how Italy addresses current sustainability challenges while maintaining its standard of quality in the fashion, food, and automotive industries. Students explored Milan, a global fashion capital and Italy’s economic hub, to learn about the intersection of luxury, sustainability, and commerce. The program also analyzed Rome’s economic landscape, influenced by tourism, fashion, and international organizations. By comparing the economic strengths of Milan and Rome, students developed a perspective on Italy’s role in international markets, preparing them to apply these lessons to their future careers in business and leadership.
Portugal and Morocco
Students from the Smith Business Leadership Fellows (SBLF) program, led by Christine Schaaf, faculty director of SBLF, and Rachel DiDonna, associate director, Smith Undergraduate Experience, traveled to Portugal and Morocco from January 11 to 20. The program focused on economic, financial, social, and cultural issues and explored conducting business in international markets. The course also emphasized entrepreneurship and leadership styles through the innovative business landscapes of both regions. Students visited key institutions and companies, including the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, UM6P, and the Lisbon Cruise Port, to analyze challenges and opportunities within local and global markets.
As these students return from their short-term study abroad programs, they bring back not only an enhanced understanding of global business practices but also a broadened perspective on international markets and cultures. By engaging with industry leaders, exploring economic hubs, and tackling real-world business challenges, they have developed a unique set of skills and knowledge that will prepare them for their future careers. This initiative highlights the Robert H. Smith School of Business’s dedication to fostering a practical and globally oriented business education.
These programs were supported in part by CIBE, a Title VI grant from the U.S. Department of Education.
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About the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business
The Robert H. Smith School of Business is an internationally recognized leader in management education and research. One of 12 colleges and schools at the University of Maryland, College Park, the Smith School offers undergraduate, full-time and flex MBA, executive MBA, online MBA, business master’s, PhD and executive education programs, as well as outreach services to the corporate community. The school offers its degree, custom and certification programs in learning locations in North America and Asia.