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., associate professor of economics, 5X 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, 71 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.
Last summer, 10 students participated in the trip and received 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 this course, students learn the concepts, principles, and systemic structure of the Circular Economy Model and take part in its practical implementation through collaboration with global companies and international organizations based in Ireland. Currently, they work with HaPPE Earth, an innovative Irish company that addresses the global plastic crisis by creating compostable alternatives. Students meet leaders of socially responsible businesses, work directly with CEOs and managers of multinational companies, and have many other opportunities to develop meaningful connections and networks. Students then use the knowledge and experience gained to work with businesses and local governments in Northeast Ohio and promote the region’s transition from a linear to a circular economy.
Leontieva noted that each year, a new group of students builds on the previous year's experience. “It is a continuous project,” she said, “bringing new participants every year, with their creativity and innovative ideas.”
“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.”