Note: This post was written during the 2021-2022 academic year.
The Global Immersion Experience (GIE) is one of the core components of the M.S. in Commerce Program. The three-week opportunity gives students a chance to immerse themselves in different cultures and experience how business looks across the globe.
The GIE was one of the first things that I learned about the M.S. in Commerce Program, and it played a considerable role in my graduate school decision. The unique opportunity emphasizes the global experience that is inherent to the program. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, students traveled across Europe, Asia, and Latin America while simultaneously learning from McIntire faculty. After two long years, M.S. in Commerce students were excited to have the opportunity to participate in a modified form of the GIE.
Students of the 2022 class had the option to pick from three GIE options:
GIE Format 1: International
The international GIE took place in Denmark, specifically in Copenhagen. McIntire partnered with longtime partner, the Danish Institute for Study Abroad (DIS), to make this feasible. Students traveled to Copenhagen for three weeks, and they were also able to spend a few days learning in a second location. One option was on the Danish island of Samsø, and they also had the opportunity to spend time in Stockholm, Sweden.
GIE Format 2: United States
There has never been a GIE offered within the United States of America. Still, this year’s students had the opportunity to travel to four different dynamic cities across the country over two weeks to learn how international business is conducted domestically. The first week was split between Chicago and Austin, and the second week was divided between San Francisco and Los Angeles. During the GIE, students had the opportunity to tour company offices and hear from guest speakers, all thanks to the McIntire network.
GIE Format 3: Local
This option was similar to the most recent GIEs that were restricted due to the pandemic. This format gave students the option to enroll in one of three courses taught by McIntire professors. The courses varied by topic, but all revolved around the global context of business.
The M.S. in Commerce Program team has worked diligently to craft these options to ensure that everyone can develop a global mindset, no matter which format they select.
