Italy Provides Experiential Learning Opportunity
Sixteen University of Idaho business students headed to Cremolino, Italy, in May for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The students participated in a two-week, two-credit course focusing on international business and culture.Students engaged in a multitude of activities to expose them to the culture, economy and business practices in Italy. They were required to complete a final project and do a presentation on one of four categories: cultural differences; service quality differences; agritourism; or expatriate issues.
The students stayed at Casa Wallace, a bed-and-breakfast owned and operated by two University of Idaho alumni – Jeff Herman and Emily Wallace. Casa Wallace is a villa located on approximately 25 acres, six of which are vineyards.
Students toured businesses and factories owned by expatriates of the U.S., as well as some owned by Italian natives. They also took language and Italian cooking courses at Casa Wallace, and visited many parts of Italy to gain understanding of the culture and services the country has to offer.
“This trip was a great opportunity for students to see and experience how businesses operate in other environments,” said Lori Baker-Eveleth, assistant professor of information systems, who helped coordinate the trip with Associate Professor of Marketing Michael McCollough.
Baker-Eveleth and McCollough conducted a class throughout the spring 2008 semester to familiarize students with Italian culture. Students were asked to form groups to research and present information on current issues in Italian society. They focused on Italian politics, history, business markets, agritourism and the different Italian regions.
This is Eveleth's first trip with University of Idaho's College of Business and Economics students, but she plans making a few more. “There is a possibility that the college may implement a required international program for business students, but that is a work in the making.”