Business students who participate in an annual study abroad experience to Ireland gain awareness about Ireland’s culture and people while acquiring hands-on skills and learning about the country’s dynamic role in the European Union and global economy.
International Economic Experience is a summer intersession course led by Ludmila Leontieva, Ph.D., assistant professor of economics, Kent State University at Geauga. “The most exciting outcome of this course is that the students develop different perceptions about themselves and the world around them,” said Leontieva.
To date, 61 students have participated and met leaders of socially responsible businesses and government organizations, integrating the real-life principles they learned in class. This study abroad trip to Ireland helps students acquire important knowledge and skills to help them expand their academic, professional and personal horizons.
Ireland maintains a global economic position that favors investment, cultural exchange, tourism and proactive efforts. Many American companies operate in Ireland due to its advanced telecommunication and transport infrastructures and government incentives and support, especially for small businesses.
This summer, 10 students will participate in the trip and receive scholarship support to help make this experience possible. “Scholarships from donors enable students to participate in this study abroad course,” said Leontieva. “These wonderful opportunities open doors for students, giving those who otherwise would not have had the opportunity to study abroad a chance to do so.”
“The International Economic Experience was extremely valuable to me, and I am very grateful and appreciative to have had this amazing opportunity,” said Katie Wuerstle, a senior marketing major with a minor in economics who participated in the program in 2023. “I never imagined I would engage with so many knowledgeable professionals in a short span of time including Caroline Conroy, Lord Mayor of Dublin [at the time].”
In addition to meeting prominent business professionals and government officials, students learn about the impact that international trade agreements, infrastructural development, entrepreneurship and corporate social responsibility have made in Ireland.
“The learning experience is unmatched and to gain an understanding of a completely different functioning economy on a global scale is not an opportunity to take for granted,” said Alex Steighner, ’23 . “The knowledge I acquired during this experience is surreal and will apply directly to my future.”