CBA494A Short-term Study Abroad to Japan Spring 2024
Led by Dr. Ming Chen, International Business Program Director, a group of 20 College of Business students embarked on this year’s short-term study abroad program in Japan. This enriching experience allowed them to explore diverse industries through company visits. In Tokyo, the group toured the U.S. Embassy, where diplomats addressed topics such as the geopolitical and regulatory landscape for businesses in Japan, the importance of bilateral agreements in tackling global issues like cybersecurity, climate change, and pandemics, and the implications of China’s Belt and Road Initiative in the regional context. They also visited Attuned.ai, where representatives provided insights into the company's AI applications in talent management and shared their experiences as expat founders in Japan. Another highlight was a visit to Polygon Pictures, a leading digital animation studio in Japan. Jack Liang, the Executive Producer and VP of Global Business Development and a CSULB alumnus, offered an overview of the studio, its global leadership in animation, and its approach to balancing localization and globalization in the industry. In Osaka, the group first toured Daigas (formerly Osaka Gas), where representatives discussed the company's Carbon Neutral Vision for 2050, the energy cluster in Osaka, and Daigas’s integration of proprietary and external technologies to achieve a low-carbon society. The group also visited Chinougijyutsu Co., Ltd., a problem-solving engineering firm specializing in robotics for various applications, including automotive and hospitality. For many participants, this trip marked their first journey outside North America, making it an invaluable experience for both their professional and personal development, as reflected in their feedback.
“This program has had a significant impact on me, personally and professionally. Personally, this trip helped me meet new friends and further grow my network. I also gained more independence, having to learn how to navigate a new public transportation system and a significant language barrier. Professionally, this program taught me what it is like to conduct business in a foreign country. I learned more about industries I had little familiarity with and how the United States and Japan can continue to learn from each other both socially and professionally.” A comment stated by International Business student Malia Acol.
“Participating in the cultural exchange program in Japan has been a life-changing experience. The insights gained from immersing myself in Japanese culture, understanding its differences and similarities with my own, and reflecting on the surprises and lessons learned, have been invaluable. This experience has equipped me with the tools to work more effectively with individuals from different cultures and has had a profound impact on my personal and professional development. I am grateful for the opportunity and look forward to applying these lessons in my future endeavors.” A comment stated by management student Glenn Cabrel
“This program has impacted me on how I perceive different cultures in work and the different environments that I can work in. It makes me more open minded on how different cultures can be and the usage of being more open minded in work. This lets me learn more and be able to work better with different people. Additionally, this program made me want to learn more about different cultures and countries. As each country is very different from each other and can be very different in their areas, shows how much you can learn more about everything. This connects to the improvement of being able to work with businesses all over the world and improving my mind everywhere.” A comment stated by management student Clarenz Camacho.
“This genuinely changed my life. As a young black man who never thought I would get a chance to leave the country growing up, I am so grateful for this. Thank you! Until next time, Japan.” A comment stated by International Business student Anthony Elam.
“This unique experience has been invaluable, offering insights and lessons that go beyond the classroom. The knowledge, experiences, and friendships I’ve gained from this program are priceless. It's an experience that I believe every student, regardless of their major, should have the chance to benefit from.” A comment stated by International Business student Xuan My Uyen Nguyen.
“As I write this, I’ve only been home for a few days, and I am eagerly working on my business with the hopes of returning one day. Prior to this trip I had never left the country and for Japan to be my inaugural trip, and such a pleasantly surprising and informative one at that, I am forever thankful to you.” A comment stated by management student Chanel Tribble.
CBA494B Short-term study 2023-2024 Catalog : IB Study Abroad Course
