Soaking in Latin American Business and Culture

A chance to explore international businesses and soak in South American culture proved to be an opportunity worth seizing for 18 University of La Verne students.

From June 26 – July 6, Business, Management and Gerontology students experienced an international tour of a lifetime through Buenos Aires, Argentina and Montevideo, Uruguay with Associate Professor of Management & Leadership Dr. Deborah Olson.

Together they visited eight businesses and embarked on three excursions throughout the countries, deepening their understanding of leadership and management in Latin America and gaining an insight on how their practices compare with business models in the states.

One of the companies visited was investment giant, Xcala in Uruguay.

“Their presentation was impressive. We know that networks and relationships are essential to building businesses here in the states and students saw how Xcala has built solid networks that have lead to their success,” Professor Olson said.

MSLM student Lina Bhambhani appreciated the dynamic of the family-business relationship at local wineries.

“Many hire their own family members or family friends in their businesses as opposed to outsiders. It was interesting to see the difference in structure from an American HR perspective,” she said.

The next study abroad opportunity for Business and Management students will be Vietnam during mini fall term this November. For more information, contact Professor of Management Dr. Issam Ghazzawi at ighazzawi@laverne.edu.