Corporate visits and cultural excursions in the UAE were strategically planned to “bridge classroom learning and global business practices.”
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Thirty-eight business fellows and four faculty members visited Dubai and Abu Dhabi during the winter semester to explore the intersection of culture and commerce.
The program, organized by Martha and Spencer Love Business School from 11 to 23 January 2024, offers second-year business fellows an opportunity to work with leading companies and companies across the UAE as part of the course BUS 1730. It provided an opportunity to engage with cultural landmarks. : UAE business and culture.
Faculty guided students in conversations, digesting and discussing observations, and integrating students’ experiences with academic and personal growth goals.
“Our goal is to bridge classroom learning and global business practices, ensuring that our students are not only academically proficient, but also culturally and professionally proficient. ” said Tina Das, a professor at Lincoln School of Finance.
Odu
“Visiting Odoo was an eye-opener. Not only did we learn about the latest ERP and CRM technologies,” said Benjamin Sykes ’26, a finance and business analytics major from Lynnfield, Massachusetts. We were also able to use Odoo’s platform to pitch our business ideas.” Many thanks to Kevin Farrar and Pavitra Singh for their valuable insights. ”
The visit highlighted the practical application of business management tools in today’s market environment and demonstrated how companies like Odoo are at the forefront of business innovation.
masdar city
“It was inspiring to visit Masdar City and understand its commitment to a zero-carbon future,” said Asa Traylor ’26, a finance major from San Diego. “It is interesting to see how the UAE balances rapid innovation with deep cultural roots, especially in places like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Qasr Al Watan.”
Masdar City is Abu Dhabi’s pioneering eco-city, designed as a world model for sustainable urban living and powered by renewable energy.
Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa
“Learning about the luxury hospitality sector inside the world’s tallest building and understanding the strategic benefits of doing business in Dubai was a unique experience,” said Kate Lohan ’26, an accounting major from Maplewood, New Jersey. speaks. business practices. ”
The hotel occupies multiple floors of Burj Khalifa and features luxurious rooms and suites, a gourmet restaurant, and a spa.
Sharjah Research Technology Innovation Park
“This trip was a comprehensive learning adventure,” said Maylee Clerici ’26, a supply chain management and business analytics major from Mars, Pennsylvania. “From the strategic insights gained at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park to the cultural depths explored at the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding and Al Shindagha Museum, this trip provided a deeper understanding of the UAE’s business landscape. I was able to do.”
Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park is the UAE’s hub dedicated to fostering innovation, research and development across key sectors such as renewable energy, environmental technology and digitalisation.
International Culinary Arts Center
Business Fellows had the unique opportunity to add a culinary twist to their educational journey by attending a cooking session at the International Center for Culinary Arts. “Going to ICCA gave me a first-hand experience of UAE food,” said Katie Gontkoski, 26, a financial major.
American University of Sharjah
“Josiah Jodry ’14 G’18, a professor at the American University of Sharjah, introduced us to finance professors and bankers who shed light on the financial system in place in the UAE.” Rohan said. The group was able to learn from other students at the university and speak with Associate Professor of Finance Daniel Dupuis about a different perspective on international business.
More things to do in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
In addition to educational experiences, the trip included activities aimed at broadening the Fellows’ understanding of the UAE’s cultural and historical context. A guided tour of Sheikh His Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding and Al-His Shindagha Museum provided an in-depth look into the UAE way of life, traditions and historical development of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The companions also experienced Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a symbol of the country’s spiritual heart, displaying the architectural brilliance and Islamic artistry that underlines the region’s religious and cultural identity. .
“My favorite days of the trip were waking up early to watch the sunrise from a hot air balloon in the desert, walking through the Dubai Miracle Garden, and watching the sunset and fireworks show on a yacht with the whole group. “It was,” Lohan said.
About Elon University Business Fellows
By blending classroom learning and real-world experiences, the Elon Business Fellows program prepares students to become innovative leaders in the competitive and dynamic world of business. Our emerging business professionals are graduates who are ready to take on the challenges of leadership in their professions, organizations, and communities.
