Thailand
Purpose
A critical component of the Kelley School of Business curriculum is understanding business on a global scale. Kelley encourages us to learn about international business by giving us plenty of opportunities to travel abroad. My sophomore year of college I took the class BUS - X272: Global Business Immersion. My class focused on Thailand, so for 8 weeks, we studied and presented on the country's business, cultural, and political landscape. Then, in May, we went to Thailand on a study tour! It was a 10-day trip to Bangkok and Chang Mai, but, afterwards, I stayed longer with friends to explore Phuket.
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During the class portion of the trip, we had many business visits to companies, such as PwC, KFC Yum! Brands, Tilleke & Gibbins Law Firm, and more. We also went on cultural excursions to the Grand Palace (pictured above), Buddhist Temples, river cruises, and an elephant sanctuary. Additionally, exploring Phuket was my first time traveling internationally without an adult. I achieved a new level of independence while experiencing some of the best days of my life.
Takeaways
It was a true blessing to gain an in-depth understanding of such a beautiful and unique culture. I loved experiencing firsthand how marketing and business works across the world. With different countries, comes different social customs and ways of handling business. However, as I learned in Guatemala, if you're willing to put in the effort, mutual understanding can be found. I'm incredibly thankful we studied Thai customs and history before arriving because it allowed us to have authentic and meaningful conversations with locals. I believe everyone should take time to recognize and appreciate each other's differences. There's a sense of beauty in opening your mind to diverse ways of conducting business, accomplishing goals, and living life.
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Overall, Thailand expanded my global knowledge, improved my business acumen, and fueled my adventurous spirit. I'm already excited to return one day.
