By Deborah Okai (M.S. in Accounting ’24)
Designed to offer a comprehensive experience, blending classroom learning with immersive cultural encounters and company visits, the Global Commerce Immersion (GCI) program offers Commerce students a unique global learning opportunity, providing students with exposure to an international environment. The McIntire School of Commerce offers various GCI programs, each focusing on different aspects of commerce. However, the one tailored for M.S. in Accounting students in 2024 was Accounting, Finance & Professional Services in Europe (specifically London). This specialized elective allows students to delve deep into the financial and professional services sector across Europe, providing not just insights, but invaluable hands-on experiences in an international context. This course has a weight of three credits and offers both on-grounds learning and over a week of intensive global discourse led by experienced faculty members.
Where will you travel?*
London is recognized as one of the world’s leading financial and business centers. As part of the pre-trip preparations, students participate in onsite learning sessions that are designed to explore the key factors influencing business trends in this pivotal region. Through a blend of readings, independent research, classroom discussions, and immersive cultural activities, students acquire a deeper understanding of the European business environment. This approach helps to develop the necessary professional and cultural competencies required to navigate international business scenarios successfully.
During my participation in this program, I had the opportunity to embark on onsite travels in London, which included visits to iconic landmarks such as the British Museum and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of a soccer match at the Loftus Stadium between Queens Park Rangers and West Bromwich. Additionally, we were privileged to visit renowned companies like Google, KPMG, PwC, and Millenium and attend a UVA alumni networking event featuring alums currently employed in the UK. Other highlights included a London Bridge food tour, a panel discussion with select alums, and a visit to the London Eye, among other activities.
One significant experience for me during the trip was maintaining my composure despite experiencing jet lag and adjusting to a time zone five hours ahead of the U.S. while adhering to the schedule outlined in the itinerary. This experience allowed me to understand how my body reacts to new foods and environments, presenting a valuable learning opportunity.
*Please note that GCI course offerings and destinations are subject to change.
What are the benefits?
Participating in cultural excursions and company visits during the program offers a unique opportunity to cultivate cross-cultural thinking skills. These experiences enable participants to understand diversity better and appreciate how various cultural perspectives influence perceptions and approaches. By engaging in conversations within these diverse settings, individuals learn to navigate nuanced discussions effectively. Moreover, these activities contribute to developing a global mindset, a crucial asset for emerging professionals in today’s interconnected world. Learning how to adapt to new environments and navigate professional settings is an essential aspect of the program. Students develop critical thinking, innovation, a collaborative mindset, a problem-solving approach, and professionalism in their delivery.
This simulates a business trip for young professionals and is an experiential learning career accelerator and professional development. Participants actively apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world experiences. This aligns with the School’s commitment to providing education beyond traditional classroom boundaries. Ultimately, students emerge from the program equipped with enhanced collaboration abilities, professionalism, and a deeper understanding of diversity.
Acknowledgments
I want to express my heartfelt appreciation and acknowledgment to Professor Roger Martin and Sally Armentrout for their tireless efforts in making this trip possible. Their invaluable support and oversight were overwhelming, especially during the onsite sessions. And a big thank you to the COMM 5510 class for being an exceptional team to travel with.
Are you interested in a career in professional services and investigating how geographic regions, cultures, and laws impact professional services? Are you curious about managing international assignments in your career? This is the elective for you!