From Economic Diversification to Falconry: Professional Growth through Study Abroad

As an MBA student, there are many opportunities to grow, not only as a professional, but also as a person. One of my most rewarding experiences at Kellstadt was the study abroad trip to Doha, Qatar. Without the purpose and guidance provided by DePaul, it is difficult to say if going on a trip like this is something that I ever would have done in my life. I am grateful I was given the opportunity to learn more about this emerging market, as well as a culture that is very different from my own.

The goal of the trip was to learn how the Qatari economy was becoming more diversified and entrepreneurship-friendly. Visits to the news organization Al Jazeera, the telecom provider Ooredoo, the Qatari Stock Exchange, and Qatari entrepreneurship accelerators were on the itinerary. We were also able to experience Qatar’s rich culture, with a visit to the historic market called the Souk Wakif. The market was filled with all kinds of cultural wares, spices, food and even pets. The sport of falconry is popular in Qatar, and the Souk Wakif had its own falcon hospital to take care of injured falcons.

Study abroad continues to be a vital piece of the Kellstadt experience, with a specialized short-term study abroad program planned for Spring Break 2018 in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Offered in conjunction with DePaul University’s Global Engagement, the program aims to expand participants’ international business and cultural experience. Program applicant, Ben Zakaria (MBA ’19) says, “I look forward to broadening my international business experience, while creating a lifetime of memories and forming a global network.” Kellstadt provides a world of opportunities–literally!

 

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Author: Nathan Farmer is a student in the MBA program at the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business at DePaul. Contributor: Ben Zakaria is a student in the full-time day MBA program at the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business at DePaul.