This summer I have the pleasure to be traveling to Dublin, Ireland where, along with 14 other W&M students, I’ll be studying all about global business. Having nearly completed my junior year, I didn’t think studying abroad was in the cards for me, but this perfect opportunity arose exactly when I needed it! I distinctly remember perusing summer opportunities here at W&M and finding the Mason Business Minor Program wishing it was held abroad. Turns out it was, and in Ireland no less! During this program, a small group of students learn from star faculty including Professor Skimmyhorn, Professor Teller, and Dr. Edmiston on various business topics leading to the completion of a minor in Global Business (all within 4 months!). I am so beyond excited to not only travel and live in Dublin for two months, but also be immersed in a new learning environment. 

To begin building the foundation of our program, the students and faculty gathered for program orientation this past Saturday. We listened to presentations on the courses we’ll be taking: marketing, management, finance, innovation & design thinking, and global business immersion. 

Having spent most of my academic experiences studying biology, this introduction to business classes was nothing like I expected. During the intro to Management in a Global Environment we were told to ask the person next to us, “when was the last time you cried in front of someone.” To tell you I was stunned and confused at this moment would be an understatement, but it made so much sense as the lecture went on. This question led to a deeper discussion of polarization as a global reality and how finding connections and becoming better communicators can help elevate leadership and management skills. Having this phenomenal lecture just in program orientation really sets the bar high for this summer! 

In addition to learning inside the classroom, we’ll be taking weekend trips to various locations within Ireland and Northern Ireland! In addition to these excursions, I hope to continue dancing abroad as an Irish dancer myself! This program will truly be an immersive experience that is sure to have a profound impact on my academic, personal, and professional career. You could feel the growing anticipation and excitement of everyone during orientation which certainly made me buzzing to begin! 

Join me on this journey to chasing dreams and a Global Business Minor by following along during the Dublin Diaries!