Undergraduate Trips
This trip was designed to demonstrate how culture impacts business abroad through
visits to companies and significant cultural sites. On the business side, in Rome,
we learned about the hospitality industry through a business talk from the manager
of the Gambrinus Hotel. We also visited the headquarters of the Italian Red Cross
to learn about how non-profit organizations operate in Italy—in Florence, focused
on entrepreneurship in Italy by visiting a variety of 6 family-owned businesses in
Florence and a small, family-owned winery outside the city. In Milan, the spotlight
will be on the famous Milanese fashion industry, and a walking tour will cover the
history, manufacturing, retail, and international influence of fashion.
While business is a significant focus of study abroad in the College of Business,
it is also essential to learn about Italy's historical and cultural influences to
better understand how and why businesses are different in international locations.
To that end, some activities and tours included walking orientation/history tours
of Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan. We also learned about street food, as well as
going to the Vatican, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, Dell' Academia,
St. Mark's Basilica, and the Doge's Palace as well as day trips outside the cities
we stayed to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, San Gimignano, and Venice.
In May 2023, Tennessee Tech University College of Business embarked on an enriching
study-abroad journey to Spain, exploring the vibrant cities of Madrid and Barcelona.
Participants were immersed in a comprehensive program that blended business seminars,
cultural excursions, and unique local experiences. The group attended insightful sessions
at the American Chamber of Commerce in Madrid and engaged in an interactive city tour.
We delved into the dynamics of the business of sports with a visit and tour of the
Athletico Madrid Football Club. The first half of the trip was topped off with a day
trip to the iconic Spanish town of Toledo, which offered a glimpse into Spain's historical
richness.
The adventure continued in Barcelona, where students absorbed the city's architectural
marvels and vibrant lifestyle. Highlights included a tour of La Sagrada Familia, Monseratt,
and a mesmerizing Flamenco show. The itinerary featured academic engagements at the
Port of Barcelona and a business visit to Llopart Winery, complemented by sessions
on Spanish business etiquette and the local economy. The trip culminated with a farewell
dinner, celebrating the knowledge gained and experiences shared, leaving participants
with lasting memories and a profound understanding of Spain's business and cultural
landscape.
