Exploring international business in the heart of Catalonia

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A group of Commonwealth University international business majors embarked on a nine-day faculty-led study abroad experience this summer in Barcelona, Spain - a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and strategic global business presence.

The transformative experience immersed the 14 students in a European business environment through direct engagement with local leaders, multinational organizations, and cultural institutions. The trip was led by Lam Nguyen, professor and chair of the Department of Management within the Zeigler College of Business.

Blending academic enrichment with hands-on learning, Nguyen said the abroad experience provided deep insights into international business practices within one of Europe's most dynamic cities.

Barcelona Abroad Highlights

• Visited ID Finance: A tour of a leading Spanish fintech company, offering a glimpse into digital innovation and financial technology in Spain.
• Visited Impact Hub Barcelona: An introduction to a global community for social innovation, part of a network of over 320,000 changemakers worldwide.
• Toured Estrella Damm: Behind-the-scenes look at the iconic brewery, known for its Mediterranean character and 100% natural ingredients.
• Visited Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya: An opportunity to explore the seat of the Catalan government and understand the political and administrative framework of the region.
• Guided Tour of 22@ District: Exploration of Barcelona's innovative urban renewal project in Poblenou, home to more than 4,500 companies, including startups and multinationals.
• Interactive Seminar: A deep dive into the political economy of Spain and Catalonia, providing crucial context for doing business in the region.
• Catalan Crash Course and Business Case Study Workshop: Hands-on activities to strengthen language skills and problem-solving abilities within a business context.
• Cultural Excursions: Guided tours of the Gothic Quarter, Sagrada Família, Park Güell, the Born neighborhood, Ciutadella Park, La Rambla, and Boqueria Market.
• International Student Networking Mixer: An opportunity to connect with local and international students and build a global professional network.

According to Nguyen, this was more than your average study abroad trip.

"This experience empowered students to broaden their global outlook, enhance their cultural intelligence, and develop their mindsets and insights into global business practices that will shape their future careers," said Nguyen, adding the students built such critical competencies as:

• Cultural awareness
• Cross-cultural communication
• Strategic thinking
• Leadership and teamwork
• Adaptability and resilience
• Independence and confidence

This annual faculty-led study abroad experience is part of the international business major and offers students meaningful opportunities to explore global markets, business practices, and cultural nuances outside the United States.

"Special thanks to Expanish, our local partner in Barcelona, for helping deliver an exceptional experience," Nguyen said. "This trip was made possible through the generous support of the University Foundation, Zeigler College of Business, Department of Management, and the Center for Global Engagement."

Interested in International Business?

Join the international business major program and gain this transformative experience. For more information, please contact [email protected].

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• Academics
• Faculty
• International Business
• Management
• Professional U
• Students
• Zeigler College of Business

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