The Faculty of Business Administration offers a wide range of short-term study abroad options during spring break. From undergraduates and his MBA students visiting the Czech Republic to commercial banking students spending time in Switzerland, Market Business allows you to receive an international education without the commitment of a full semester.
Our students enthusiastically shared their insights from their travels.
Harper Stoppercher – Czech Republic
Junior majoring in Marketing, Economics, and International Business
Traveling to the Czech Republic for my spring break study abroad program was an unforgettable experience that made me a more fulfilled business professional. I worked in pairs with Czech students to compare marketing in the United States and the Czech Republic, and quickly found that Czech feedback was more direct than in the United States, and that Czechs were much more responsive. I did. Every time we visit a company like AimTec in Pilsen or tour a unique historical city like Karlovy Vary, we know that our group will be ready to leave at the scheduled time. It was expected. The experts and tour guides we met were also very careful to keep to their allotted time.
It was also interesting to be in a country that exports more than it imports. Skoda is a huge car brand that accounts for the majority of Czech exports. Almost everyone in the Czech Republic drives a Škoda or has some involvement in its production. This gave me a new perspective on business. I want to keep that in mind when I enter the professional world.
Jonathon Slayton – Czech Republic
Candidate for Master of Business Administration
Overall, our trip to Pilsen and Prague was a great experience. In fact, I think this was one of my best experiences at the market. After my visit, I understood why Marquette and West Bohemian University have had such a long partnership. We share a common culture and passion for beer.
The soccer match we went to was really fun. The match went into extra time, after which penalty kicks were taken. It was a lot of fun to participate. I also enjoyed listening to lectures on the future of business and artificial intelligence at our partner university's satellite campus in another small town, Čevu. Overall, this journey has made me a more well-rounded individual and professional. Exposure to other cultures and ways of doing business always broadens your horizons and allows you to think more deeply about your own experiences. I encourage all Marquette students to consider a study abroad experience.
Abby Milatz – Czech Republic
3rd year student majoring in accounting
My trip to the Czech Republic gave me a better understanding of international business practices and Czech culture. This trip allowed us to visit several companies that are vital to the Czech economy. I loved touring the Pilsner Urquell and Becherovka facilities, as they are important to the economy and identity of Pilsen and Karlovy Vary, respectively. I thought it would be interesting to learn about how Cold War era policies affected business operations. In addition to the business tour, the kindness of Czech students and teachers greatly enriched my experience. They were very willing to show us the local spots in the city, explain the differences between their university and ours, and immerse us in the culture. Overall, this trip allowed me to make meaningful comparisons between the European economy and our own economy through real-world experiences.
Kam Heiser – Switzerland
Senior majoring in human resources, accounting, and finance
Studying abroad in Switzerland during spring break was an eye-opening experience. Through company visits and cultural exploration activities, I was able to deepen my understanding of overseas working environments. One of the best experiences was being able to see the vaults of the multinational bank UBS. We were able to get an inside look at how customers store their valuables, and that there are many options for safe deposit boxes and safe deposit rooms as well.
Another great experience was being able to travel all over Switzerland on my free day. I, along with a group of 3 other girlfriends, went from Zurich to Bern, Geneva, Lausanne and immediately back to Zurich. Throughout the day we saw amazing sights such as the United Nations building and fountains in Geneva. Overall, I would recommend this trip to anyone wanting to learn more about Switzerland and the banking sector.
Garrett Butler – Switzerland
Junior majoring in finance and business analysis
During spring break, I decided to go to Zurich, Switzerland on a commercial banking program. We visited a lot of cool companies like UBS, Victorinox, SNB, Lindt, etc. I didn't know anyone in my group on the trip, but by the end we became friends and it was really nice.
What impressed me most about this trip was the cultural barrier. In Switzerland, we had to adapt very quickly to function in a country where English is not widely spoken and the way of life is completely different. This can be helpful when trying new things and adapting to different experiences at work. This trip also pushed me outside of my comfort zone and led me to talk to strangers when trying to get somewhere or understand something. I believe this will greatly help my communication skills.
Ryan Thorne – Vietnam
This trip impacted my journey at Marquette University both academically and socially. I would like to continue learning about different aspects of Vietnam during my studies, especially regarding the business world. You can do this by keeping up with the latest happenings in Vietnam and learning how Vietnam's economy continues to grow. Socially, I've made some good friends on my trip that I wouldn't have made on my own.
From touring an aluminum factory to experiencing the Chuchi Tunnel, Marquette University and Hutech students were able to create fun and lasting memories with each other. We all spent time together outside of the classroom, and the HUTECH students showed us around delicious restaurants and bustling markets.
It was great to work with students from different majors and discuss our perspectives on the world. I have already spoken to many Marquette University students on campus and through social media she has also connected with HUTECH students and I can't wait to see where our lives take us. .
Participate in I-Fest (International Fest)
sponsored by: International Relations Program, Student Wellness, Department of International Education, International Business Program
when:Wednesday, April 17, 2024 | 3:30pm – 6:30pm
where:Siam
about: An informal end-of-semester outdoor meet-and-greet with international food trucks, crafts, music, and fellowship for international relations students, international students, international business students, language students, and study abroad alumni. The first 50 students to visit the event's food truck will also receive raffle prizes and free meals. For more information about this fascinating international event, please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/international-festival-i-fest-at-marquette-tickets-876680463867?aff=oddtdtcreator.
