CSULB Study Abroad in Germany Summer 2024
In collaboration with our partner university, Hamburg University of Applied Science (HAW), seventeen CSULB students made their way to Hamburg, Germany in the Summer of 2024. The bustling Germany city became a living classroom for CSULB students providing them with the unique opportunity to explore international business firsthand in one of Europe's economic powerhouses. The experience allowed students to bridge the gap between classroom theory and applied practice: because in an increasingly globalized world, international business is no longer optional—it's essential.
The program's academic core centered on two key components: visits to prominent German companies and collaborative projects with local students. Our participants had the opportunity to tour the offices of industry leaders such as InnoGames, Hapag Lloyd, Tom Tailor, and Philips. These visits provided firsthand exposure to various sectors of German industry, from digital entertainment, to logistics, fashion, and healthcare technology. Students engaged with company representatives, observed the operational practices of these companies, and gained practical applied knowledge of the German business dynamics they covered in class merely a few weeks ago.
Complementing these corporate visits, our students collaborated with peers from our partner university in Hamburg on projects focusing on comparative analyses of business practices. This cooperative work challenged participants to navigate cultural differences, manage international teamwork, and apply their theoretical knowledge to solving real-world problems at both the regional and international level. One area of focus was on the difference between how Los Angeles and Hamburg were positioning themselves to become smart cities of the 21st century.
Beyond the academic curriculum, the program incorporated a rich cultural component. Students explored Hamburg's historical landmarks: they toured the revered halls of the Hamburg Parliament building, reveled in the street foods and music of the St. Georg city festival, and strolled along the serene azure mirrored Alter lake. Students also experienced contemporary German culture and quotidian life including the efficient transportation, rich and hearty cuisine food, and rich maritime history. Some more enterprising students extended their stay to visit other European cities, further broadening and deepening their European experience.
In essence, the Germany study abroad program offered a balanced mix of academic rigor and cultural exploration. It challenged students to apply their skills in an international context while fostering personal growth and global awareness. As we continue to refine our international programs, the success of this experience underscores the importance of such initiatives in preparing students for the increasingly globalized business environment. Many participants expressed a newfound interest in international career paths, with some considering graduate studies abroad. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from students reinforces our commitment to offering these transformative international experiences as part of our curriculum. The impact of these programs highlights their significance in developing versatile, globally competent professionals prepared to address the multifaceted challenges of international business.
