Management major Chelse Monnier is preparing to be a business professional who understands the international market. Her business skills are not only being developed through international programs, but she is actively participating in career development opportunities on the UNI campus. Chelse’s course work, on-campus tutoring experiences, and participation in entrepreneurial workshops are expanding the borders of her business training at UNI.
In May 2006, Chelse and her classmates will travel to Nicaragua on a 10-day trip to study business in Central America. The course, “Socio-Economic Reality of Central America,” taught by Professor Chris Schrage, fulfills the Liberal Arts Core Capstone requirement. Students in the course prepare for the Nicaragua trip by writing a paper that expands their knowledge of the country.
“Working with Nicaraguans increases UNI students’ knowledge of a third world country, and they learn how to effectively communicate with people from a different culture,” says Professor Schrage.
An orientation session before the Nicaragua trip provides a way for students to discuss their research, thus learning from one another about the country’s history and culture. Once in Nicaragua, students continue their conversation by discussing their everyday activities. These conversations will allow Chelse and her classmates to put their experiences into perspective.
“Not only will I learn how to do business when I'm in Central America, but I will also learn how to develop business ventures in that part of the world,” Chelse said. Along with her Spanish minor, she will also earn a Certificate in International Business. The Certificate provides an opportunity for students like Chelse to take courses that develop their understanding of the international business landscape. Students pursuing the Certificate receive an education in international business, world politics, and foreign cultures.
In addition to adventures abroad, Chelse has worked to develop an understanding of international cultures through campus activities. In 2005, she was a conversation partner for the UNI Culture and Intensive English Program (CIEP), which helps international students improve their English and learn more about American culture.
“Working with international students in this setting teaches me how to help people who use another language,” she said. "In return, I can apply this training when I 'm trying to communicate in a foreign country."
Someday, Chelse hopes to put these lessons to work as an entrepreneur. To prepare herself, Chelse participated in the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center’s (JPEC) “How to Start a Small Business” workshop. From participating in on-campus educational opportunities to traveling to Nicaragua, Chelse is linking her education on the UNI campus to her international business aspirations.
Updated 26-Jun-06
