IPE - Navigating the Future: International Political and Economic Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence

Notre Dame, Indiana

IPE is an annual project in which SIBC teams from all three SIBC schools research, prepare and present their findings on a current topic of political economy. The judges are the SIBC donors, SIBC alumni and leading industry professionals. This year, the University of Notre Dame hosted the competition. The prompt given to teams was:

In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence (AI) stands at he forefront of global transformation. As AI continues to evolve and present unprecedented opportunities and challenges that transcend borders, each team will explore the impact of AI on our world by focusing on different political, economic and societal impacts of AI for an assigned firm and/or industry.

Our own team was assigned to the aerospace/defense industry, with the firm Lockheed Martin.

“In the Fall of 2024, I had the opportunity to travel to The University of Notre Dame in Indiana to present on AI in Aerospace Defense with the IPE team. As we flew into Chicago, we had the opportunity to visit the city. Reflecting on my recent trip brings back so many memorable experiences and valuable insights. One of my favorite memories would have to be the practice we held the night before the presentation. After enjoying a team dinner at a nearby restaurant, we gathered in the meeting room of the hotel together in one last practice before the big day. There was so much laughter and joy shared, as I looked around I couldn’t have imagined a better group of people to be able to present with. Not only did this trip allow me to grow professionally, but allowed me to meet some pretty awesome people along the way.

Overall, this trip to Chicago/Notre Dame was a blend of professional achievement and social enrichment. It reinforced the value of teamwork, exposed me to new experiences, and allowed me to network with people from multiple Universities.”

— Rebecca Tilling

“The IPE experience has been an incredible opportunity to dive into and research an industry that was previously unfamiliar to me (in this case Aerospace and Defense). Working alongside individuals from diverse academic backgrounds has not only expanded my network but also allowed me to learn from talented peers who excel in fields beyond my own of Accounting. It’s been a truly enriching experience, broadening my perspective and enhancing my collaborative skills to work apart of this team.”

— Emily Rascher

Also pictured: Maren Bronson and Elena Williams

Joyi-Colorful Zone: Mental Health Resources for University Students

Toronto, Canada

I had the privilege to dive into one of the best trips of my life. We went to Toronto to present our recommendations of Joyi to our kind client, Nagar. She had a great talk with us, showing her perspective of life and how her entrepreneurial efforts reflected on a successful and happy journey across the world. She always showed a deep care for us, and it mimics her purpose with her business - to create a digital vitamin for people to take, and to improve their mental journey. I felt so satisfied by taking part of her vision, and I hope the best for her. Toronto was one of the best cities I have been to: good food, good walkability/public transportation, and great people. The city has so much character and history, and holds a strong music culture, as it is the hometown of two of the biggest artists in the world: Drake and The Weeknd. Our trip took place during the 8 year anniversary of Drake's album Views, which is a tribute to Toronto. It felt like such a fateful event! Also, I was able to visit the House of Balloons, the house where The Weeknd started his career. As I was commuting to the house, I was listening to his first album, and felt like I was going back in time, as I was experiencing how his life was back then. SIBC gave me a lot, and I couldn't be more happy with my experience with my team!

-Pinak Lalitcumar

Essential Kitchen: Fostering Community Partnerships

Queens, New York

I was the Project Lead for the Essential Kitchen Team. At first, I was nervous to be the project lead because it was my first time managing a consulting team. After meeting the team, my nerves stopped and I became more excited than nervous. Our different skill sets and personalities were invaluable to our success. Our team worked through our project setbacks with laughter and creative problem solving. We worked every week on finding new ways to meet our client’s needs and help her business grow. I learned invaluable skills related to leadership, delegation, and project management. Our client, Dianna, CEO of Essential Kitchen is an influential social entrepreneur and community organizer based in the Queens, New York area. We created a presentation with consulting recommendations for her commercial kitchen. Our recommendations stemmed from our market research we conducted over the year. Our suggestions were for the kitchen’s website, social media, and overarching marketing needs. When we presented our recommendations, Dianna was so grateful and excited to implement our ideas. Our team absolutely loved our time in NYC! Three out of the four of us had never visited before, and we were subway pros by the end of the trip. Some memories of the trip include: rowing in the central park boats, visiting the 9/11 Memorial Museum, walking on the Brooklyn bridge, attending a Yankees game, eating pizza/bagels, and visiting Wall Street. Our team grew in our professional and interpersonal skills immensely over the course of the year and made friendships and memories together that will last for years to come. Thank you, SIBC!

-Abbey Casserly

Tekiti Experiencias Mexicanas: Facilitating Fair Trade

Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico

“Participating in the Tekiti project as part of the Student International Business Council was a truly enriching experience that expanded my understanding of global business strategies and cultural exchange. Our team's journey to Guadalajara not only enhanced our analytical and collaborative skills but also allowed us to engage deeply with the local business landscape. Tekiti, with its vibrant local roots and ambitious vision, provided a unique lens through which we could explore the intricacies of international business dynamics. By leveraging what might be seen as regional challenges, we helped Tekiti harness these elements as strengths in their market positioning and outreach strategies. This project was more than just a learning experience; it was an opportunity to make a tangible impact on a business that is poised for international growth. I am immensely proud of the work our team accomplished and am excited to see how Tekiti leverages our insights for their future success.”

-Vasco Almeida

“I had the privilege to lead an amazing team on this year's project with Tekiti. I gained so much valuable knowledge and experience in fair trade, international trade, artisans, and market expansion into the US, which has inspired me to continue my professional career in similar areas. In April, the team and I traveled to Guadalajara, Mexico where we presented our research and findings to the Tekiti team at the beautiful Casa de Artesanias de Guadalajara, which was the perfect environment to present in as it showcased the types of products that Tekiti produces by its local artisans. The whole Tekiti team was very impressed and grateful of our research. Their gratitude and feedback towards our presentation proved our hard work and dedication to the project the past two semesters were absolutely worth it and more! All of us students left inspired and super proud of ourselves. We’re so thankful for Tekiti giving us the opportunity to work with them. Upon finishing our presentation the first day, we got to explore the wonderful city of Guadalajara. We took a trip to Tequila, got to see the beautiful agave fields, and visited a couple distilleries. After Tequila, we went to see the Chivas soccer game. I think this was everyone’s favorite part of the trip. The energy, crowd, and stadium were incredible! I will definitely be back for another Chivas game. On the last day of our trip we went to Tlaquepaque which is a community in Guadalajara full of culture, food, music, and shopping. Our lunch in the town was beautiful, as we were surrounded by amazing architecture, music, and great people. My time working with Tekiti and traveling to Guadalajara was incredibly valuable to me and I’m so grateful for the experiences and memories created!”

-Sophia Guzman

“My experience with SIBC brought me to an artisan market and gallery in the arts district of Guadalajara. We had spent all night traveling, and arrived just in time to prepare and present to Tekiti Experiencias Mexicanas. Our task had been to analyze the market in the United States and see the areas that may offer the greatest opportunity for Tekiti to expand into. Their team had been too busy with the day-to-day aspects of running the business to devote the time they'd want to to their company's expansion and growth. My team and I were able to help fill this gap by determining target markets in the United States that fit with Tekiti's offering of authentic artisanal Mexican goods, as well as specific firms that they may partner with. It meant a lot to be able to provide real value to the Tekiti team and support their growth.”

-Jack Rousso

I had an amazing experience working with Tekiti! Working on this project was a great learning experience that allowed me to improve my current skills as well as develop new ones. I learned so much about the different components that go into researching and executing a project for a business. I had the privilege of working with a group of talented, hard-working individuals who served as role models, helping me get out of my comfort zone and always pushing me to grow. The team had so much fun in Guadalajara! I loved experiencing the culture through different places we visited, the music, and the food. We were able to meet the Tekiti team and learn more about their business process. I am so grateful for this experience working with SIBC and I'm looking forward to what the next few years may bring!

-Abbie Haas

IBC Buyside: AI Business Applications

San Diego, CA

“My experience with the SIBC BuySide Team proved immensely rewarding in both learning and professional growth. Throughout this endeavor, my team and I explored the influence of Artificial Intelligence on healthcare and the financial instruments guiding corporate investment decisions. Our work involved comprehensive research to identify the foremost AI technologies utilized in the healthcare sector. From our analysis, we pitched the decision to invest in Intuitive Surgical, recognizing its role in spearheading transformative innovations in healthcare. Engaging in this project honed my research and presentation skills. Although I am not a finance major, I challenged myself to dive into this financial analysis, enriching my comprehension of AI’s financial implications in healthcare. Moreover, this local experience provided valuable insights into the intricacies of event organization and hospitality for the guests and panelists. I am so grateful for my team and advisors for their continuing support as I step further into my professional journey.”

-Maren Bronson

“This semester, I had the privilege of serving as a member of the BuySide team. Within this dynamic and driven group, we dedicated ourselves to exploring the profound implications of Artificial Intelligence on the healthcare sector. Through diligent research and collaborative effort, we not only uncovered the latest advancements in AI technology but also identified key innovative companies driving change in the healthcare sector. Our findings enabled us to present an informed recommendation to invest in Intuitive Surgical to contribute to the ongoing evolution of AI-driven solutions in healthcare.
This project has honed my research, presentation, and analytical skills, while further deepening my understanding of the economic implications of Artificial Intelligence within the healthcare sector. I extend immense gratitude to Frank Potenziani for his generous endowment to the SIBC as well as to John Fitzgerald and the entire esteemed panel of judges for their unwavering interest and support.”

-Kate Collier

“Serving as a Project Lead for the Buyside Team taught me how to better manage a team and has allowed me to further develop both my technical and interpersonal skills. I learned how to delegate tasks, present to executives in a professional environment, network with industry professionals, and connect with individuals in the same industry for career development guidance. When I began working on projects with SIBC my freshman year, I was exposed to upperclassmen who soon became role models to me. It was because of a positive role model leading one of my past projects that caused me to eventually become a project lead myself. Now, as a soon to be graduating senior, I’ve gained much more clarity on my future career aspirations due to the hands-on nature of the projects and real world experience they provide. I’d recommend this invaluable experience to anyone seeking to expand their knowledge in the international business world as there’s a wide variety of projects with a large spread across different industries.”

-Angelina Kapp

Snoice: Catering to the Community

San Diego, CA

“Working on the Snoice project was not only an awesome opportunity to grow my marketing and analyzing skills but also a great chance to see how small business important to their local community can grow themselves through involvement in their communities. The team and I got to see how a local business with a strong cultural identity could use aspects some may view as weaknesses to their advantage in their branding. We also got to help them find ways and information that helps them realize the possibility of growing their business is very real. I really enjoyed working with a San Diego company, knowing that our hard work would have positive effects for our own community. I am so grateful that this family-owned business would trust us with this project and can't wait to see what they do in the future.”

-Isaac Ayala

“I helped my team complete a catering expansion plan for Snoice’s small business. In preparation for this, I contributed to the market research, SWOT analysis, and competitor analysis. I also had the opportunity to visit the Snoice location in Spring Valley, California for their personalized tasting experience. Their desserts were absolutely delicious, and the customer service was great! Through this project, I gained valuable knowledge about the dessert and catering industry. I look forward to seeing Snoice thrive and delight dessert lovers in San Diego!”

-Halle Fernandez

“Overall, it was amazing experience that led to a lot of personal and professional growth. I really enjoyed getting to learn more about industry trends and Marketing!”

-Conchi Gordillo

Le Cacaotal: The Business of Beans

San Rafael de Escazú, San José, Costa Rica

“I am very grateful for the opportunity to have been a project lead on this project and to learn more about sustainable cacao farming. Throughout the semester, we worked with Le Cacaotal to create a foreign market entry plan for their cacao beans. Then, we traveled to Costa Rica to present to the client and visit their farms. We got to meet Jaqueline and Geiner, who gave us a tour of the farms. They explained the entire growing and harvesting process and allowed us to taste some of their many unique cacao varieties. This hands-on experience was a rare peek into the detailed process of cacao cultivation, which is the first step in creating chocolate. In addition, we experienced the rich Costa Rican culture and saw some amazing sights, like mangrove forests and sloths in the rainforest. This experience offered unique insights into international business, sustainability, and cross-cultural connections—lessons I will carry into my future career.”

-Steffek Rainey

“Pura Vida! Travelling to Costa Rica to present our team's work to Le Cacaotal leadership was a daydream. Throughout this academic year, an expanded team comprised of the travel members and other capable peers has worked on a foreign market expansion plan for the company. The work included regulations, legal and compliance, consumer profiling and market research. As a professional consultant and problem-solver would, team members became experts in the cacao extraction and bean-to-bar chocolate industries, providing suggestions from a fresh perspective to Le Cacaotal.
In Costa Rica, we began by exploring San Jose, the vibrant capital. We then were taken on a tour to one of Le Cacaotal's 'fincas', or farms, where we learned about the firms 40 plus cocoa varieties and the supporting ecosystem its workforce nurtures to protect cacao plants. The next morning we presented to Costa Rica and France-based leadership, to whom we are eternally grateful for teaching us so much about the industry and supporting our work. Did you know that Le Cacaotal's large portfolio of cacao varieties is groundbreaking in the sector, since only a few varieties are currently used for chocolate? We did not,! and we came to see that interesting fact as one of the company's most valuable competitive advantages.
The trip continued after the presentation for all team members, and even longer for me since I decided to extend my stay and remain in Costa Rica as a solo traveler. Alone and with my team peers, I experienced a wealth of local traditions from Semana Santa (Holy Week) to an incredible party at our Tamarindo beach hotel. I explored the rainforest, swam in Costa Rica's beautiful beaches and kayaked in mangrove forests full of amazing wildlife. I met locals, expats and fellow travelers, learning something new from each. This trip made possible by SIBC and Le Cacaotal gave me the memories of a lifetime, and I would like to thank both organizations sincerely.”

-Maria Osorio

“Having the privilege to travel to Costa Rica was eye opening. We learnt about the many, many, different kinds of cacao beans (50+!) and the delicate way of growing them. Although we couldn’t feed the client in person, we still got valuable feedback on our project. After that, we found some Costa Rica tours and we enjoyed every moment of it. Zip lining, kayaking, seeing animals (sloths!!), and walking 50 flights of stairs to see gorgeous waterfall… and more adventures. I still dream about the tropical fruits everyday.”

-Joanna Zhang

Au Pair Butrfly: Expanding Cultural Exchange Between France and The U.S.

Biarritz, France

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“I can’t express how grateful I am to have the opportunity to be a part of SIBC. Through my work with Au Pair Butrfly and SIBC, I challenged myself in ways that I have simply been unable to do in any other organization. As a team, we crafted two marketing plans targeting both American families and potential au pairs that are our age. Although I am not a marketing major, I learned so much about the marketing field by discussing buyer personas, competitor analysis, and potential marketing channels with members of the marketing team. Outside of marketing, I had the opportunity to apply lessons from finance classes through a condensed mergers and acquisitions target company spreadsheet. However, the highlight of my experience throughout this project was learning to lead. I worked on a project last year and this year I had the opportunity to lead a project. At first, I was really nervous and unsure of myself, but by the end of the project, I felt confident in my abilities. As a leader, I learned how to communicate effectively with others, problem-solve, and support new members. I built connections with all the team members that I would simply be unable to do if I were not in a leadership position. I often found myself advising new members which honestly made my experience as project lead. When I started my first SIBC project I remember feeling intimidated and unsure of myself, but I had project leads that were there to guide me every step of the way. When I became project lead, one of my goals was to be a support system for new members who were finding their footing. After talking to project members about their experience working with me on their first project, I'm honored to say I think I accomplished that. P.S.: France was amazing and the croissants were immaculate! The weather was very polarizing with surprise hail and rain around the corner of every sunny afternoon, but I wouldn’t change anything about my experience for the world. Thank you again SIBC for the amazing opportunity!”

-Elena Williams

“Working on the Au Pair Butrfly project was a life changing experience. I gained incredible insight into the world of consulting, particularly on an international level. As a team, researching, designing, and cultivating a project we were confident in presenting to our client was a long process. However, after almost two semesters of dedication and hard work, we succeeded in creating a thorough and thoughtfully designed project. Upon traveling to Biarritz, France to present to our client, I was amazed by the knowledge I had gained from working on the project. Yet, I discovered that creating the presentation was only half of the experience. The other half was spending an amazing day with the client, presenting our work, hearing their opinions, values, and aspirations for the future of the company. It was an unforgettable day. I cannot thank SIBC enough for this incredible opportunity. This project inspired me, allowed me to gain professional insight early in my career, and gave me a new perspective on the world and the joy in establishing global connections.”

-Emma Alvarez

“SIBC truly shaped my final year at USD and gave me an incredible opportunity to work with a global company. It was a wonderful learning and professional development experience for me. As a senior, this project allowed me to apply everything I have learned from my international business classes to help Au Pair Butrfly with its company goals. As a team, we created a three-pronged presentation focused on marketing and acquisitions in the U.S. market. I worked on creating a global marketing plan for Au Pair Butrfly to enter the U.S. market to find potential young adults to become au pairs. I learned the importance of presenting data as a story to keep the audience engaged and understanding the reasons behind the recommendations. It was wonderful to work for a woman-owned global company and learn from the women working there about the culture and life in France. The trip to Paris and Biarritz gave me a fun opportunity to engage with French culture and learn about how global business is run. My team and I had a great time in Paris visiting the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and getting to enjoy incredible food.”

-Emily Travis

IPE - International Political Economy: NET ZERO Financial Drivers and Market Incentives

IPE is an annual project in which SIBC teams from all three SIBC schools research, prepare and present their findings on a current topic of political economy. The judges are the SIBC donors, SIBC alumni and leading industry professionals. IPE is a friendly case competition type project in which students will gain invaluable research, executive presentation and teamwork skills. The University of Notre Dame SIBC kindly hosted SIBC chapters to present their research during the case competition.

Fall 2023 IPE Prompt: NET ZERO

USD NET ZERO Priority: Financial Drivers and Market Incentives

“I had an amazing time in Chicago and South Bend with SIBC. Preparing for the IPE forum not only taught me about a relevant and interesting topic, net zero financial incentives and market drivers, but also forced me to work efficiently in a small amount of time. I found just this preparation part extremely valuable and I already find myself applying the things I learned and practiced in other parts of my life. Once we got to the travel dates we were all so excited to see a new place so different (and so much colder) than what we are used to. We flew into the Chicago O'Hare Airport and immediately went out to explore the city. We got dinner as a team and got to know each other a little bit better while riding the L (what I learned is Chicago's subway system) and seeing the Bean from an amazing rooftop. The next morning we finished our tour of Chicago and headed to South Bend, where we met the Benedictine SIBC students and got a tour of the University of Notre Dame. Luckily for us, the we enjoyed an unseasonably warm and perfect fall afternoon. After the tour we came together with the other two IPE teams from Notre Dame and Benedictine for our final presentations. We had a round of introductions from all team members and all panelists, then got started with presentations. After the three student presentations we had a chance to as the panelists questions, then ask questions among ourselves. I thought the time we had to discuss our prompts and the things that came up in our research was so valuable, as I found the perspectives of the other students both interesting and unique. This discussion led us to question how we need to move forward as a society and how we as a generation need to make that happen, which was really powerful. Then we ate a short dinner together and spent the rest of the night exploring South Bend in true Notre Dame fashion. The next morning we were up bright and early to cheer on the Fighting Irish in their last home football game against Wake Forest. This was my favorite part of our travel experience, as we got to fully involve ourselves in the culture and traditions of another school that is so different from ours. We also got plenty of time to bond and network with other SIBC members at a SIBC-hosted tailgate. Overall, both preparing for this project and traveling with my team were hugely impactful and valuable in very different ways. I am so grateful I had the chance to be a part of our IPE team this fall and I can't wait to see what the rest of our year brings!”

-Isabelle Jackson

”My experience with the SIBC International Political and Economic (IPE) Team was truly enlightening and professionally enriching. Our team had the unique opportunity to travel to Chicago for a night and then South Bend, Indiana, where we participated in the IPE Forum held at University of Notre Dame. We focused our presentation on exploring the market incentives and financial tools like carbon taxes, cap and trade, and true cost pricing, and how these mechanisms contribute to achieving net-zero goals. The collaborative effort within our team was instrumental in presenting the complexities of these economic instruments and their impact on sustainable practices. Presenting our findings at the University of Notre Dame provided a platform to engage with experts, share insights, and foster meaningful discussions on the critical intersection of business, politics, and environmental responsibility. The experience not only broadened my understanding of international political and economic dynamics but also highlighted the importance of collaborating with and learning from others.”

-Abigail Rodgers

“This year's International Political and Economic Forum was fantastic! The project itself was fascinating - the team thoroughly enjoyed researching emerging net zero topics such as climate accounting, ESG, climate-related financial risk, and carbon cap and trade systems. The forum itself was great; there was an esteemed panel that provided tough questions and great feedback on the presentation. Additionally, all of the teams collaborated and engaged in dialogue about net zero following all of the presentations. It was inspiring to see so many students passionate about net zero. The trip was also enjoyable - Visiting Chicago was a blast, and going to the Notre Dame tailgate and football game was a great experience.”

-William Johnson

Beliza: Global Marketing of French Fashion

I truly am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this project. I learned so much about leadership, marketing, the fashion industry, and all the intricate elements of a market entry strategy. Being able to work with not only Beliza but also the Chamber of Commerce was such a unique and valuable experience. As the project lead for the global branding portion of the project, I helped to conduct market research about U.S. consumers and the swimwear industry via focus groups, create a competitor analysis matrix, construct a positioning map, and develop target consumer portfolios for Beliza. Our team also compiled a creative portfolio of digital marketing strategies, social media marketing strategies, website design improvements, potential partnerships, and a potential influencer program to build brand awareness. As a joint team, we worked together on many different aspects of the project including researching potential boutique and hotel partnerships. The project involved a lot of creative thinking which, while challenging, allowed everyone to contribute in their own unique way.

I also had the opportunity to travel with my team to present to our client in Marseille, France, and travel to Paris for a few days which was an amazing experience I will never forget. The team at Beliza was very receptive to our ideas and was excited to implement some of our proposed strategies. Presenting deliverables in this professional setting gave me real-world business experience that I know will help me in my future career endeavors. My fellow travel team members and I had a great experience in France and it was fun to see the intersection of French culture and the business environment in action. I am so grateful to SIBC for making this experience possible and cannot wait to continue working on more projects.

-Anna Kirkpatrick

Being a co-lead on the Beliza project over the course of 2 semesters was an enriching experience. Managing a team to execute the scope of work needs Beliza had was fulfilling and eye opening. There were challenges along the way but nothing impossible for the Beliza team. Through out the year we received feedback on what was great, as well as what needed to be improved. Having such a big team was amazing because of all the unique skills everyone brought to the table. By the end of the school year we had a dense project to present to our client and the excitement received for it was only achievable by the cohesive work all my fellow colleagues brought to the team.

-Sean Brenot

This was an amazing project to be apart of! This project experience gave me the opportunity to be able to work with a real company and assess the strengths and weakness of coming into the U.S. Market from an international country. It allowed me to learn about the U.S. Market Strategies and Branding Strategies and gave me the ability to have a real life experience with working with a company! Marseille was so amazing and working with Beliza was so much fun to do. Thank you so much SIBC, this was an amazing opportunity I won't forget about!

-Tess Eichenberger

SISA: Sustainable Energy through Real Estate

Working with SISA, an energy software solutions company, provided me with an unforgettable experience in Vancouver, Canada where we presented our year-long research findings. My role was to help with competitor and client research. During the day of our presentation we had lunch with the founder and met the team. Afterwards, SISA treated us to a walk around the city where it was full of life. It was a fun-filled trip where we experienced vibrant cultures, savory cuisines, and beautiful sightseeing. My team and I dove into the diverse cuisines, enjoying Chinese, Lebanese, and Ukrainian dishes. We also ventured into the city on the weekend on a stop-and-go tour bus that was an adventure in itself. The highlight of our sightseeing was Stanley Park, where we saw beautiful cherry blossoms. Working with SISA was a very hands-on experience. This project helped develop my professionalism and hone my communication and analytical skills for the workplace. I want to not only thank SISA for this amazing opportunity but also SIBC, for their support in helping me become a better student and professional.

-Alex Angulo

This transformative experience not only expanded my understanding of the startup environment but also provided valuable insights on building a business from the ground up. Through the project, I delved into the intricacies of lead prospecting and discovered effective strategies for onboarding potential clients. This hands-on learning experience has equipped me with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the world of entrepreneurship with confidence. Additionally, I had a great time exploring the city of Vancouver. It is truly one of the most diverse cities I've been to with a foreign-born population over 40%, exquisite cuisine from all over the world, and a vibrant cultural scene that captivated my senses. From walking through the historic neighborhoods of Gastown and Chinatown to immersing myself in the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Park, Vancouver's charm was irresistible.

-Sebastian Perez

Going to Vancouver was a great experience. The team and I had a great time and were able to experience the extremely diverse food culture, check out the nightlife, and do some sightseeing. I had no idea how diverse Vancouver was going to be either. Vancouver seemed to be much more of a melting pot than I was expecting it to be. The biggest highlight of the trip was presenting to the SISA team. It was very exciting to be able to present the information we had gathered over the year to the Founder of the company. The SISA team was very interactive throughout the presentation as well and asked lots of questions throughout. This made it much more engaging and also took away a lot of the nerves and stress we had been feeling leading up to the presentation. The coolest thing I learned was that the indigenous people of the Arctic and Subarctic regions (The "Inuit" people) used to stack rocks in a certain formation to resemble the figure of a human. These rock stacks mainly served as directional beacons for those traveling through the wilderness but had many other uses as well. Some of the other uses are to warn travelers of danger, to help hunters with locating animals, and to mark places of worship and admiration. They are called Inukshuks. Overall, the experience was amazing from start to finish and I am very thankful I was able to be part of this experience.

-Jake Wilson

As the project lead, I have gained extensive experience and a deep understanding of working internationally with companies. Throughout the year, my team demonstrated dedication and commitment to the project, which culminated in a successful presentation to the company. The opportunity to travel to Vancouver was truly amazing because it allowed me not only to present our year-long work but also to immerse myself in the city's culture. During our visit, we had the chance to meet the founder of the company, which provided an excellent opportunity for us to establish a personal connection. The presentation itself was an incredible experience, as the founder had numerous insightful questions for us, indicating a genuine interest in our work. After the presentation, we had the opportunity to explore Vancouver. The city's culture was diverse and captivating. We made it a point to have dinner at different restaurants each day, where we indulged in authentic cuisine from various cultures, including Chinese, Lebanese, and Ukrainian food. This gastronomic adventure added to the richness of our experience. Additionally, we took advantage of our time in Vancouver to explore its attractions. We visited the breathtaking Capilano Suspension Bridge, admired stunning waterfalls, and spent time in Stanley Park, a true gem of the city. I would like to express my gratitude to the SIBC (International Business Council) and SISA (Study Abroad Program) for providing us with this unforgettable experience. It has undoubtedly contributed to my career growth and helped me achieve my professional goals.

-Arleth Quintero

Glass Half Full: Removing Waste One Glass at a Time

This past year I had the honor of being the Project Leader for the Glass Half Full SIBC team. We got to help create an impact report and a residential recycling growth plan for the company. Traveling to New Orleans to give a presentation of our work in-person and seeing the recycling facility that we had learned so much about was such an unforgettable experience! From trying the beignets at Café du Monde to listening to live jazz music, New Orleans was such a cool city to explore. However, my favorite part of the experience was being able to see just how much of an impact Glass Half Full is making as we watched piles of glass get turned into sand for coastal restoration right before our eyes at their recycling facility. I am so thankful for the opportunity to work and learn from a company like Glass Half Full!

-Clara Fehrenbach

This was a great project to be a part of I thoroughly loved being a part of the GHF team this year. Working on something that has a real world environmental impact was extremely fulfilling. Along with this I got so much real world business experience that I couldn’t get in a classroom. NOLA was so cool to go to and I will always remember this trip. THANK YOU SIBC!

-Iruka Obinelo

My Project experience was incredible and one of many memories that I will cherish from my Senior year. The beginning of my journey being a part of Glass Half Full was enduring knowing we were going to make an impact on a company. Traveling with your team makes the journey more meaningful because we’re on our way together to present our research from so many club meetings at school. Having never been to New Orleans, our morning on our way to the presentation was an exciting car ride. But the most exciting was upon the presentation, we were going to head our way to the company for a tour. I was in complete joy seeing all the glass, and all their efforts that I had seen from behind the scenes; everything in person surpassed what I had imagined. From a morning presentation, to a company visit right after, we headed off into the city of New Orleans all together to indulge ourselves into a new culture for two days, after an accomplishing, and heartwarming start of the day.

-Sofia Patino

Glass Half Full was a year-long environmental impact consulting project where I learned beyond all my expectations. Throughout the project, our team developed a social impact report and provided recommendations to grow Glass Half Full's residential recycling customer base. In the end, we traveled to New Orleans and presented our work to the client, in a trip filled with learning and fun. Being able to work with Glass Half Full, a company whose mission and values I strongly relate to, felt rewarding and motivating. I was able to employ my creativity and Marketing background to devise out-of-the-box recommendations, and I learned from adapting my work around the continuous feedback we got along the way. I improved my teamwork abilities, and grew overall as an individual and aspiring consultant. In New Orleans, I got to explore a fully new environment and fall in love with the city. I am grateful for this opportunity, for the dedication of my peers and advisors, and for being a part of the SIBC!

-Maria Osorio

Xecue: Exportation from El Valle

In the spring of 2023, I had the opportunity of traveling for our presentation for Vinos Xecue. In this project, I worked on the promotional video, and this responsibility entailed contacting videographers and creating a storyboard. The base of this video focused on brand identity, authenticity, and attracting more American consumers. Additionally, ideas were given for their social media platforms to exhibit everything Xecue has to offer. This project allowed me to use my education in marketing, grow my professional skills, and build my resume. It feels very rewarding to be able to work with a group for so long and see great results. I am very grateful for my fellow peers and advisors throughout this project. Overall, SIBC offers so many benefits and I believe anyone that has any spark of interest, should join immediately!

-Danielle Dobler

This project was one of the best I have worked on! It provided me with invaluable experience with distribution evaluation and communication but also provided me with the opportunity to travel to Mexico to present. Overall, the project has expanded my knowledge of consulting and collaboration.

-Lucas Keefer

Traveling to El Valle de Guadalupe this past weekend to present the findings of the Xecué SIBC research was an incredibly rewarding and pleasant experience! The project itself, centered around the entrance of Xecué wines into the United States, provided invaluable strategy consulting experience, as we conducted market and import analyses and created a pitch deck for the client. The information was well received by Xecué's founder, Alberta, and the venue where the presentation was given, Museo de la Vid y el Vino, was fascinating and had incredible views of El Valle. Getting to visit Xecué after the presentation was thoroughly enjoyable, as we tried the different wines we had previously only read about, and as they served us incredible food. Alberta, her family, and the winery staff were extremely welcoming and pleasant people, and sharing a meal with them at the winery was one of my favorite parts of the trip. Additionally, the winery itself was beautiful and charming. I loved visiting this region of Mexico, as the landscape of rolling hills spotted with vineyards was so charming, and I enjoyed having the chance to improve my Spanish. This trip was incredible and I'm so thankful to have been extended this opportunity; Alberta and the team were incredible to work with, the project work was rewarding, and Xecué and El Valle de Guadalupe were beautiful.

-William Johnson

This experience has allowed me to capitalize on my bilingual abilities. I was able to effectively collaborate with my peers in order to complete the project. I thoroughly enjoyed being able to communicate with our client in Spanish in order to further understand Xecue's needs and how to best fulfill them. I loved getting to experience the beauties of Ensenada in just one weekend with all of my friends.

-Alexa Osorio

Working on Xecue taught me so many valuable things about teamwork and solving problems in an adaptable way. It was a great experience for me to grow my leadership skills and communicate with a group unified by a common goal. I am so grateful for this opportunity to get to see how much commitment and good team dynamic can transform a project from work to passion.

-Isaac Ayala

Taking part in the Xecué project was wonderful experience. To offer my time and service to a female-owned, Mexican small business was an honor and a privilege, and to go and actually see the business itself and learn about the land where the grapes are grown, how they market and sell their wine, where the name originates from; all this was very eye-opening for me. Ingeniera Ceja was incredibly hospitable, and I feel very grateful both to her and to SIBC for having the opportunity to be a part of such a valuable learning experience.

-Josué Ruiz

Artal: Cultivating forestry in Costa Rica

After working over a semester and a half on our Artal project, we got to travel to Costa Rica, see the Artal Teak forest, and meet some of the Artal team. I had never been to Costa Rica before, and the exotic animals, the lifestyle, and the overall culture was fascinating. The Artal team set up an entire day for us. We saw three different teak wood plantations, some with 6-year-old teak wood and some with 20-year-old teak. They also showed us around their cacao plantation and went into depth about the cacao industry and the process from tree to store. Before this project, I had not the slightest clue what teak was or what it was used for, and now I can tell you everything there is to know about teak. This trip was a highlight of my semester and an experience I will never forget! Through this club, I have developed a love for international consulting, and I’ve been able to develop my leadership and communication skills.

-Sydney Avery

Over the course of this academic year, I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to be one of the team leaders of the Artal Forest project. The experience I had travelling to Costa Rica to visit the company's teak and cacao plantations in-person was unforgettable. We met Leo and Haynar, who gave us a tour of Artal's farms, we even got to taste some raw cacao. On top of meeting our client, I got to experience new cultures and different foods. We visited some incredible places, such as Playa Avellas in Guanacaste, and got a little bit too much sun! This trio was the highlight of my time with SIBC and a memory I will always cherish.

-Sean Behan

Throughout this semester and last, I have been working as part of the team that represents Artal Forest in SIBC. Artal Forest are a Costa Rican based teak wood distributor. They informed us in October that they are keen to enter the US market as a distributor of teak wood so this became our team’s project. Working as part of this team has proved to be a great test and benefit of my collaboration, team-working, public speaking and business to business communication skills. To deliver this project, our team were required to conduct a market analysis for teak wood in the US to identify how successfully Artal Forest could venture into said market. Additionally, we were required to gain a thorough understanding of the Artal Forest business in order to present their strengths to potential clients in the US. In building this presentation and presenting to the SIBC exec board, I was fortunate enough to be chosen to travel to Costa Rica to meet the Artal Forest team. In Costa Rica, myself and 3 teammates got to experience a rich and diverse culture. We were lucky enough to be exposed to a variety of landscapes that exist in this country. We stayed 2 nights in the city of San Jose and one night in a coastal village outside Tamarindo. The day in Tamarindo was definitely my favourite as we had a lot of free time to check out the beach and the nearby restaurants/day clubs. Visiting two separate Artal Forest plantations was definitely a huge highlight from the trip. We were guided around these plantations by 2 different workers and they were able to answer any questions that we had. Both plantations were extremely impressive. I felt that this experience really made my work on the project feel real, value-added and highly appreciated. I would highly recommend this project (as well as any other in SIBC) to those considering joining SIBC. It was such a fun experience and is an excellent talking point for any future job interview.

-John McSorley

Although we did not get the chance to present to the clients in person, it was an incredible trip. Getting a tour of the sustainable teak and cacao forests and learning about the environmental approach to cultivating this farm was really interesting. I appreciated every moment from the long drives through Costa Rica's various climates, surfing the beach of Tamarindo during down periods, getting to know different members of the team, and watching the red sun set everyday. It was such a great experience!

-Leah Stevens

Naturway: Exploring Energy in Lisbon

Since joining SIBC in 2020, I have been a member of the Naturway team. And finally, after COVID and two years, I was able to travel with three other students to Lisbon, Portugal! Lisbon is a beautiful city that carries with it great history -- from the origin of early exploration to the Americas to the brightly colored buildings lining the cobblestone streets, the culture of Lisbon is unique and amazes all who visit it. As part of our consulting project, we met with several Portuguese business professionals and took a company tour of Energias de Portugal (EDP), a Portuguese based electric company. We also met with our clients, the Naturway team, for lunch and took their notorious tuk tuk challenge around the city. We stopped at many famous sites and took in the panoramic views along the way. This being my first international travel experience made it all the more exciting. Being welcomed by locals and hearing their stories, made me truly feel at home in a place so different from anything I had ever seen or witnessed before. Walking around the city, visiting different neighborhoods and churches, listening to fado (a type of popular Portuguese song), eating Portuguese food, and exploring the Lisbon nightlife, all left memories that I will cherish forever. One day of our trip included a train ride to Sintra. In Sintra, we saw some of the most spectacular castles and gardens. We walked over 12 miles and went up 100 floors that day, so you could say we walked a lot. Our last day in Portugal was spent in Cascais, relaxing on the beach, reflecting and appreciating all that we had the opportunity to see and partake in the last few days. As the trip came to a close, I said my goodbyes to the city I had begun to love. Returning home definitely had me wanting to go on another international trip in the near future -- just ask my parents about the amount of times I said "at this time last week we were ...". Lisbon will be hard to beat, but I am looking forward to the day I get to travel abroad again. Thank you SIBC for not only providing me with valuable professional work skills, but also the ability to explore and experience a culture so new and different from my own. As the Portuguese say, obrigada!

- AnneMarie Rodgers

After 3 semesters of working with Naturway, our team finally had the opportunity to travel to Portugal and meet with the Naturway representatives. Our project alone, which centered around market research and customer segmentation during the COVID-19 pandemic, was an amazing opportunity and allowed me to put what I was learning from my classes into the context of real business scenarios. My experience was truly enriched by the eventual opportunity to visit Lisbon, the place we had been studying for so long. As someone who hasn’t had the chance to travel internationally very much, this opportunity was especially empowering. Getting to experience new cultures, different foods, learn about international business, and interact with the Naturway team made for a trip I will never forget. I also really enjoyed meeting with representatives from EDP, Portugal’s leading electric energy provider, as well as international USD alumni for career advice and insights. In the span of a week, I feel like I was able to learn so much and grow my communication and critical thinking skills. It was the highlight of my summer!

- Gianna Sbarbaro

I really enjoyed working on the Naturway project and traveling to Lisbon to meet the team! Over the course of the semester, we compiled potential sales leads for the company to market to in order to expand their presence as a travel activity company. When we traveled to Lisbon, we were able to meet the owners of the company that the SIBC team had worked with for a few years. They even let us take part in their signature "Tuk Tuk Challenge" scavenger hunt around the city! Zooming around Lisbon in the back of a tuk tuk, and trying to beat our opposing team in the race, was definitely the highlight of my trip. While participating in Naturway's activity, we were able to see first-hand what one of their customers would experience. We immediately thought of new marketing ideas for them to target more customers, and hopefully we can share more with the company in the future. As well, the city of Lisbon could not have been more amazing. The scenery was beautiful; the food was amazing; and the people were always kind and welcoming! I cannot wait to go back one day. Joining SIBC was one of the best decisions I have made at USD! I have gained invaluable real-world consulting experience, in addition to forming bonds with so many amazing people. There is no other place where an aspiring business student can have the opportunity to work with an international company and travel around the world to meet them. That is what makes this club so unique!

- Steffek Rainey

Through the project my team completed for Naturway, I was able to travel to Portugal for a week. My team met with the employees of Naturway, as well as with several other companies. I toured EDP, visited Pena Palace in Sintra, saw churches and castles, tasted delicious local food, rode tuk tuks, and became close friends with the students in my travel group. I am so glad to have had the opportunity to travel to Portugal with this group! I encourage anyone who is at all interested in business to join SIBC and strive for this experience.

- Brianna Floyd

Xecue: Marketing Wine in Mexico

In the Fall of 2021, I wandered around the Alcala Bazaar in search of things to do on campus. As a First-Year student interesting in possibly majoring in International Business, I joined SIBC. The group I joined started working with Xecue Vinicola, which was tasked with improving its marketing strategy. We visited for the Valle de Guadalupe in Ensenada in December to become familiar with the area as well as Xecue’s competitors. Even though it was December, the sun warmed our skin and provided excellent encouragement to explore. The different wineries in the region each had unique views and excellent views. My favorite part was the food and people at Xecue winery. I could not believe how good the food tasted, as well as how kind the staff was. The winery owner, Alberta, treated us as though we were her own children and never failed to satisfy our needs. The Valle is a beautiful place to relax, as it is much different from the city of Ensenada. Even though our trip was for two days, it was an excellent way to rest and relax after a long semester of school. We then visited in the Spring to give our final presentation, and the weather did not disappoint. It was nice and warm, which allowed us to appreciate the shade provided by Xecue. We visited the wine museum where the view was breathtaking. The clear blue side and country country side view was relaxing. Following our final presentation, we went to Xecue and indulged in the delicious food I remembered fondly from the Winter. The staff was welcoming and were just excited as we were for being there. As a Latina student, I find different ways to be able to use my Spanish speaking abilities. Joining Xecue, I was able to take my Spanish skills to the next level by presenting in Spanish and talking with the winery owner and staff in Spanish. This solidified my passion for international business, and strengthened my appreciation for SIBC. Never in a million years would I have thought that as a first year student I would have been able to had the opportunities presented to me by SIBC. I look forward to making the most out of my time here at USD in SIBC, and I cannot wait to see what else I learn and accomplish!

- Alexa Osorio

In the spring of 2022, I had the opportunity to travel to the Valle de Guadalupe with the Xecue project team as a part of SIBC. This club is an amazing place to learn all aspects of business, and apply them to an international context. In working directly with companies, I’ve gained true business skills that I can use in the future through internships and jobs. The additional benefit of traveling is a bonus and I had a great time. We took a day trip down to Ensenada, Mexico to present all the work we had done for Xecue Winery. We presented our project in English and translated into Spanish when needed. I am fluent in Spanish and always appreciate a chance to practice with other people. After the presentation, our team was able to visit the winery. I had fun getting to know my teammates in a more casual setting. The food and wine were amazing! Afterward, we had a good time exploring the outside of Xecue, where we met other people and several excited dogs. Overall, this SIBC trip was amazing and I can’t wait for similar travel opportunities in the future!

- Brianna Floyd

Traveling to the Valle de Guadalupe to present our final pitch was one of the most surreal moments as a college student. As a project lead, this project allowed me to grow and develop myself in ways that I did not know were possible. I was able to develop my organizational and leadership skills. This project consisted of a year's worth of research surrounding the industry best practices, marketing techniques, and so much more. With the research, a destination marketing plan was complied for Xecue Winery! I am so thankful that I was given this opportunity to learn about the wine industry in such great depth and be offered the opportunity to travel to the wine region of Mexico.

- Maria Klostrakis

My project experience with Xecue was definitely something to remember especially since I did not know exactly what the SIBC did. I had a great group both semester and a great leader in Maria. I knew that if I did not know how to do something I can ask anyone. It was very well organized and I cannot thank both Xecue and SIBC for this experience.

- Nicholas Cantu

TKB: The Buzz around Hawaiian Honey

This project experience was something I won’t forget, not tomorrow, not five years from now. I truly believe this club, SIBC, is the best thing that USD offers, and I feel blessed to have stumbled upon it in my first year. Oahu, Hawaii is something out of a movie. While I’ve been before, this catered experience was entirely different. Each day was packed snug with honey market research, including visiting hives on the North Shore, exploring retail honey stores, and visiting a local farmer’s market with a honey vendor. Each SIBC member got to see the magic, the interworking, the bees in their natural habitat through a one-of-a-kind hive/colony visit. We learned from a 12-year experienced beekeeper the basics of the bees and the bee business. We all suited up and got to be within arm’s length of the bee hangout spot. On the final day, we presented our project to Japanese consultants. We received positive feedback on the branding and mission we came up with more TKB honey. So, I leave this magical island with a honey addiction and unmatched gratitude. When we weren’t prepping for our presentation or conducting market research, we did find ourselves at the beach, overcome by the “a picture can’t do this justice” beauty of the island. In addition, we immersed ourselves in the Polynesian culture by walking the grounds of the Polynesian cultural center, getting to see the activities of the first settlers. I could write forever about this club, but I will respect your time. This was a delightful experience, and I wish everyone something of the same magnitude.

- Sydney Avery

TKB was a year long project that allowed me to work on an industry that I was not familiar with, on a region of the world that I was not familiar with and with a company from a culture that I was not familiar with. Working on this project was an amazing growing and learning experience, specially because it was one of my first opportunities as Team Leader of a big team on a topic that I was less familiar with. I had the opportunity to work with a great team throughout these two semesters and had the privilege to go with 3 of my fellow colleagues to Oahu, Hawai’i, to actually explore the honey industry and the local market. We had the unique opportunity to visit a beekeeper and learn from a very knowledgeable person what goes into raising bees and producing honey, all the while following him on a daily routine inspection of the beehives and while having the opportunity to touch and hold the various strips of the beehive. All this unique experience gave me a new appreciation for what goes into creating a bottle of honey and an appreciation for the traditional and natural process. One of the biggest takeaways that we would hardly find online is how small differences can influence the taste of honey a lot. Everything from location to flora influences the honey but to a level of detail that two beehives a quarter of a mile from each other can have completely different production yields and/or taste. I am very thankful for both TKB and SIBC to have allowed us such a unique and interesting project and such a unique opportunity to travel to Hawai’i.

- Joao Pires Coelho

I had the incredible opportunity through SIBC to be a part of the travel team to present in Oahu, Hawaii. As an international business student, SIBC has been the best thing I have done while at USD. Not only did I gain invaluable experience as a consultant for a company and collaborate with my peers, but I got to research and engage in the Japanese business culture. Learning professionalism in multiple cultures has helped me grow as an individual and a Knauss student, which is exactly what I had hoped to gain when choosing to study IB at USD. Hawaii itself was a dream! Our presentation with TKB went incredibly well, but I had the best time bonding with my team members. From snorkeling with sea turtles, to eating delicious, fresh poke bowls, to hiking in what felt like Jurassic Park, there was never a dull moment. My favorite experience was meeting with a local beekeeper Kino Bees. Kino took time to explain the beekeeping and honey making process. We had been researching all about honey making over the course of the academic year, but it was so enriching to see it right in front of us with an expert to answer all our questions. I would like to thank my SIBC advisors, Allison Howitt and Eileen Daspro, and the SIBC Executive Board for supporting us throughout the project and making the trip possible. And a big shoutout to Joao, our team lead, and the TKB team members who all worked so hard to make the project a huge success!

- Nadia AlJunaidi

Working alongside the TKB Group and their ventures into the honey business has been a great privilege and honor. The hearts behind this company as well as within my team and SIBC have taught me many valuable skills as this project was my first introduction to consulting in the international business field. I want to extend a special thank you to the donors who allowed me to experience this consulting project and to fully be immersed in creating a brand for a company from scratch. Hawaii was a dream from flora and fauna to the simple way of life that sparked a deep inspiration to pursue global consulting as a career. The people I met during this experience and was able to communicate the stories of are what drove this longing and have brought me a new sense of self-understanding. Laughing with Karen, Joao, Nadia, and Sydney while fearless hiking the Manoa falls trail, trying what is now our favorite poke place, and swimming with sea turtles is what makes this adventure a core memory I will always treasure. I wholeheartedly can say that I will support SIBC and its partners throughout my new ventures in life. Thank you to everyone who made this experience possible. It was truly life-changing.

- Sydney Bui

Atlas: Strategic Consulting in London

This was my first year at USD as well as SIBC. I came into college knowing I wanted to be a part of something meaningful in college, but I was not sure exactly sure what career path I wanted to take. I am so thankful to have stumbled upon SIBC as a freshman. I joined the Atlas project with plenty of doubt in myself and little confidence. The project seemed so intimidating and everyone was older than me. I thought to myself, "There is no way I will ever make the travel team". As time went on, I found my comfort zone. Then, I completely crushed that zone and threw it away. I took on tasks I did not know how to do such as industry analysis. However, all I knew was that I was going to figure it out. SIBC pushed me to take on challenges I was uncomfortable with in a comfortable setting. I was forced to step up to the plate when the team was counting on me. I also learned how to use the tools at USD as a freshman that you typically learn by your third year on campus. As an active team member, I had to step up to the plate when something needed to be done, to produce the best final product we could. Real-life clients were counting on us! At this point, I began to become more comfortable in my position on the team, and my confidence began to emerge. A spot on the travel team was foreseeable. Once we finished our final presentation, it was time to present it to the e-board. I was so nervous, and I had never had to do a real presentation before. High school did not prepare me for this moment. Although I was freaking out on the outside, I did the best I could and left it to the judges. A few weeks later, I was selected to travel to London to present the final presentation to the client! For me personally, London was a sentimental place because I could see where my father grew up. The fact I was chosen for the travel team meant more to me than just business. SIBC provides students like me with opportunities they would otherwise not have. However, we still had the final presentation. At this point, it was a victory lap! I got to show off all the amazing work I put in and express how much pride I had in my efforts. We did it! I displayed presentation skills I did not know I had! I honestly do not know where they came from... So, to all the quiet, doubtful, unsure, and shy students out there, do not be afraid to join SIBC. There is a project for everyone and for every interest. Even if you are a freshman, it does not matter at SIBC! You will find your way to succeed even if it may be blurry at first.

- Matylda Marszalek

My internship with Atlas and our team's trip to London was transformative and eye-opening. I learned a lot about the translation/localization industry and how artificial intelligence is being used to help companies expand globally. I also learned a lot about British culture from food to slang. I was very impressed how diverse the city of London is and how many different religions and ethnicities mingle together.

The highlight of the trip for me was exploring Kensington and SoHo. It felt great to see crowds of people again and it seemed like life was finally getting back to normal. I also appreciate how the public transportation is so extensive in London when compared to San Diego. That made it easier to explore the city without a car.

I have nothing but respect and appreciation for the Atlas team, Umit, and Bekir. The entire team has been great to work with and they are some of the hardest-working people I know. Umit and Bekir are very intelligent individuals and I'm impressed with that they're doing at Atlas. I also want to thank Dr. Daspro for being very supportive on the Atlas project and other projects in the past. She is incredibly talented, smart, and hard-working. I have nothing but respect and admiration for her and her accomplishments. Thank you all for making this possible!

- Sebastian Perez

My experience with the Atlas project this past year has been extremely rewarding. I started out the project not knowing anything about AI, translation services, or language service providers. Throughout this project I was able to broaden my understanding of the AI industry and how much of an impact it has on everyday life. Furthermore, being project leader for this group let me hone my leadership skills, communication skills, and presentation skills. Lastly, being chosen for the travel team and traveling to London to present our final presentation was a rewarding experience with wrapping up all of the hard-work my team and I put into this project. Overall, I wish I could do another SIBC project now that we are in person, but sadly I am graduating this semester.

- Alexis Labrinos

Extremely grateful for these past 2 semesters working as a consultant with the Student International Business Council at the University of San Diego. Consulting for Atlas has been an enriching experience that has allowed me to learn about an industry I was unfamiliar with and consulting with SIBC gave me the opportunity to travel to a country I have never been to before. Very proud of the B2B marketing strategy, strategy for further expansion into global markets, and secondary research on global trends that tie to the language service provider industry my fellow consultants and I presented to the CEO and COO of Atlas.

- Sean Brenot

Jars of Delight: Sustainability in the City

For the past year, I have had the wonderful privilege of working with Dianna Rose, the founder and CEO of Jars of Delight. I was instantly drawn to this project, not only because it tied into my passion for marketing, but also because the company was a clear embodiment of the values that I honor most- sustainability and community enrichment. Working with Dianna, who is so devoted to her craft and to making the world a better a better place, was an incredibly refreshing experience that I can honestly say transformed the way that I view business.

From start to finish, my team and I kept Jars of Delight’s values in mind to create a social media and rebranding strategy that perfectly captured Dianna’s vision. After a few months of research, analysis, and creative problem solving, our team made the journey to New York City to deliver our insights. 

We stayed just outside of Manhattan, where we were welcomed by a chill breeze and the sounds of live jazz. Every neighborhood we ventured into offered its own unique feel that made it easy to understand why New York City has long captivated so many people. 

On our first day in the city, we made our way to Gemma for some heavenly Italian food. I’m not sure if it was the long flight and our trek through the rain, or if the food was simply that good, but I’m still dreaming about their Focaccia Robiola. We then stopped at Levain for one of their famous chocolate chip cookies before heading to Broadway to see a spectacular production of Phantom of the Opera. 

The next day, we headed into Queens to present the work that we had completed over the course of the past two semesters. Dianna welcomed us to her newly opened commercial kitchen, where we were given a full tour of the establishment before delivering our recommendations. Throughout our presentation, Dianna expressed sheer excitement and gratitude that made all of our hard work worth it. To say I left the meeting feeling inspired would be a gross understatement. It was an electrifying experience that fueled my desire to create positive social change through business. 

We devoted the remainder of our time in New York City to exploring its vibrant culture through museum visits and sightseeing, indulgence in even more delicious food, leisurely walks through Central Park, and a bit of shopping. It was the people, however, that made this trip so wonderful. To the strangers who helped us navigate the subway, to celebrities we ran into on the street, to old friends who made the effort to connect, and to our phenomenal client, Dianna Rose, thank you. 

Overall, my experience working on the Jars of Delight project was one that I will never forget. I would like to conclude by issuing a special thank you to the Student International Business Council. Thank you to Dr. Eileen Daspro for guiding us through this project and setting us up for success. And, of course, thank you to our generous donors who made this trip possible. Your support means the world to us. I cannot wait to see where this experience takes me.

- Jessica Lundstrom

Jars of Delight provided me with plenty of opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. I gained real world experience from collaborating with a team to engaging with a real client. In addition, I had the amazing opportunity to travel to a place I’ve never been before. New York City offered me the chance to meet new people and to visit art museums like the MET. I will forever be grateful for this project in providing me with new cultural experiences and strengthening my resume.

- Ashley Dafferner

SIBC was an organization that I was aware of, but never really knew what they did until the start of my senior year here at USD. Once I heard about the projects, and career development you gain from SIBC, I immediately wanted to join. I strongly believe that being project leader for Jars of Delight, and working on social media marketing and branding for a real-world application greatly benefited my academic skill set, as well as grew professionally and personally. Working with a client like Dianna was rewarding and intellectually stimulating. I learned a lot about planning and executing a social media marketing strategy, creating advertisements that stick to a business’ core values, and branding. This project made me feel like through the power of marketing, advertising and branding, it is possible to make a difference through businesses that take a stance on our world’s pressing matters. Our team helped give Jars of Delight the tools it needs to successfully revamp their social media pages through posts about their product offerings, as well as educational posts concerning their sustainability initiatives, how JOD is a minority and woman owned business, and their community outreach. Our hard work finally paid off, and in April 2022, we were able to travel to New York City to pitch our marketing plan to Jars of Delight. Throughout the four days that we spent in the city that never sleeps, we got to experience a fantastic Broadway show, amazing food (I still dream about NYC bagels), and see iconic monuments. I am forever grateful for the memories and bonds we made over a glass of wine and mouthwatering pasta on our dinner nights out. I can attest and say it’s true; New York is “where dreams are made of.” I realized through this experience that I am interested in pursuing a career that specifically focuses on social media marketing and branding for businesses that make a positive impact on our communities and planet. Thank you SIBC, for enlightening my mind to a career path, and enriching my soul through the memories made this year.

- Bianca Dolan

Before joining SIBC, I was struggling to find clubs on campus that would give me the real-life marketing experience that I needed to help me kickstart my career. A friend of mine was in SIBC and encouraged me to join because it offered hands-on experience with a client that I was looking for. As a woman of color, I was instantly drawn to Jars of Delight because it is a minority-women owned business whose mission is to promote sustainability within the catering industry. I learned so much in my position as a Social Media Marketing Consultant, and thoroughly enjoyed working beside such a great team of women to create a plan that would strengthen our client's social media presence and engagement. For these past two semesters, I had the opportunity to assist in the growth of Jars of Delight, a culinary startup in New York City. My team and I work together to create a plan for monthly social media strategies through set deliverables, such as researching and targeting brand competitors to make recommendations on social experiments, formulating organic social media content, and creating compelling PowerPoint presentations to support the brand’s needs. Working on this project has provided such insight into how critical it is to build trust and credibility with your clients or brands in order to strengthen brand loyalty and increase purchase confidence.

- Daniela Perez

Stories from Oaxaca with Tin Marin

Reflecting on my experiences with SIBC would require a very long time, so I will just summarize the highlight of it all: traveling to Oaxaca. As someone whose travel abroad was shattered to the ground 3 consecutive years in a row (thank you, Covid), joining Tin Marin and having the opportunity to go to one of the most beautiful cities I've seen, in one week, was an experience I will remember forever. From the beautiful multicolored walls, the music, eating chapulines (crickets) 4 nights in a row, the sunburns, and the captivating ambiance, this trip taught me more in one week than I had ever expected. Everyday, we woke up at 8am, had breakfast, and visited sites that were well-known around Oaxaca. To name a few: Ruins in Monte Alban, the Temple of Santo Domingo, mezcal factories, Jacobo and Maria Angeles "alebrijes" shop, textile factories, and many, many authentic restaurants.

When deciding to major in International Business, I knew I had to go out and meet new people, interact, integrate, and learn from others who are different from me in personal and professional levels to truly globalize myself… to enjoy the diversity of it all and to truly emerge myself in places I never have been before. This trip was all that times a hundred. I met the nicest people, had the most delicious dinners, and watched and learned about Oaxaca's most sacred and valued crafts and artisanal work that make it the wonderful city it truly is. However -- to be able to meet the people behind the product that we had been working with for months really topped my appreciation for the artisans and the brand I am proud to represent and work with.

To summarize the experience in a way that it deserves: it was truly transforming to be enriched with a culture that has so much history, beauty, and respect, and that continues to use those artisanal skills that were passed down from generation to generation descending from their very own indigenous roots. It was eye opening to see this part of Mexico that was never in my radar, and to learn to appreciate the hard work that goes into each individual craft. Yet, most importantly, to be more conscious of my own consumption of crafted goods from now on, and to understand that it is extremely important to honor the original creators and artists whose lives depend on these type of skills.

Oaxaca was a dream come true, and I am eternally grateful that the SIBC provided me with this opportunity. I graduate knowing that I lived an experience many can only imagine, and that I got to learn about what makes Oaxaca so special.

- Sofia Ford

This fall the USD SIBC was tasked with creating a branding and marketing project for Tin Marin, an artisanal handbag company founded by USD alumna Marina Laparte. This Spring break, we were able to travel to Oaxaca with Marina and be introduced first hand to the gorgeous and fascinating culture that is the brand’s foundation.

Our cultural immersion began with trips to Monte Alban and Teotitlan “Place of the Gods'' where we learned about the Mesoamerican and Zapotec cultures and how they still strongly influence the region. As we are an artisanal handbag company we made special visits to our handbag artisans and to San Martin Tilcajete, home to the exquisite Oaxaca Alebrije wood carvings. Nightly we sampled delicious Oaxacan cuisine, even bravely trying crickets. Enjoying spectacular evenings at roof top restaurants on the main plaza we enjoyed speaking with Marina about Mexican culture, Mexican women’s issues and a way forward based on deep cultural appreciation and society inclusiveness.

The Tin Marin bag is made for the modern woman who is truly connected to the rich artisanal history of Mexico and daily celebrates her people’s cultural riches.

- Charlotte Alexander

For Tin Marin, we got the opportunity to travel to Oaxaca, Mexico, and I had the most amazing time! Having the experience working with a smaller brand that has a global impact has given us the insight into every step in her vision and inspiration. Marina, the founder, took us back to the city where Tin Marin all began. Every spot we went to had purpose to understanding the cultural elements that make the city and her product so great or showed off cool spot for content creation. Our travel helped us to grow as international leaders by showing us a new business culture and the different ways in which brands can be inspired. It also gave us hands on experience with content creation and the laborious process that is capturing lots of footage. We get to see the direct payoff of our work on her socials and website, so it's nice to know that we made important contributions. I am so excited to present our findings to Marina and how our trip helped to shape our final deliverables. The Tin Marin team has grown so much in our ability to produce and understand social media marketing and brand management. SIBC has continuously provided me with great experiences and I am beyond grateful for my impactful travel opportunity!

- Jordan Exline

The Tin Marin project was far outside my comfort zone as a Business Economics and Finance major, but I was instantly drawn to the brand. The vibrant handbags and Marina’s story excited me and made me interested to work on a marketing project for my last year at SIBC. I could not have imagined traveling to Oaxaca Mexico, where Marina first came up with the idea of Tin Marin and ethically sources her woven bags. In Oaxaca, the team got the opportunity to meet local artisans, including the women artisan behind Marina’s bags, and explore the culture and artistry of the city. The city was rich in inspiration and shed light on the branding behind Tin Marin. Moving forward with a social media marketing strategy this spring, it was helpful to position the photos and strategy to align with the branding. In regards to the trip itself, my favorite part was the chapulines (crickets). Oaxaca is known for its amazing food which usually includes chapulines. Getting to experiment with completely different flavors and ways of paring foods, such as chapulines in guacamole was exciting and fun. With the pandemic, I have been unable and uninspired to travel. Going to Oaxaca reinvigorated my love and excitement for travel and international business. It was a perfect capstone to my four years at the University of San Diego and it was all possible through SIBC.

- Sarah Richards