Last summer, a group of MBA students from HCU embarked on a 10-day International Immersion Experience that took them to Spain and Portugal.
This experience was designed to give students an in person look at how European countries are navigating growth, innovation and global strategy.
In Barcelona, students experienced firsthand how organic grocery chain Veritas is promoting sustainability and blazing new trails in marketing. They also were able to meet executives at the Barça Innovation Hub and learn how FC Barcelona, one of the world’s most popular and decorated sports franchises, applies research, analytics and technology to push the boundaries on player
performance and fan engagement.
Upon arrival in Lisbon, Portugal, they met with executives from Aldi Portugal, Siemens Portugal and representatives from the Port of Lisbon.
It wasn’t all business, though: these students got a chance to visit historically and culturally significant monuments like La Sagrada Família, Montjuic Castle, São Jorge Castle and the Belem Tower in Lisbon. They also took in a Flamenco show, a Spanish cooking class and historic walking tours in both Barcelona and Lisbon
Global Career Support
Houston Christian University (HCU) has officially partnered with Interstride, an interactive career portal designed to help international students navigate the complexities of the global job search from the very start of their college careers. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment by the Archie W. Dunham College of Business, the Office of International Student Services and Career & Calling to support the professional development of HCU’s international student community.
Through this career portal, international students gain access to powerful resources, including real-time visa and immigration insights, financial aid guidance and a specialized job board tailored to global employment opportunities. The platform also offers regular webinars on key topics such as the job application process, along with access to Interstride ambassadors who are available to answer student questions.
With these comprehensive tools and resources, Interstride equips HCU’s international students with the knowledge and support they need to pursue successful careers in the U.S. and around the world.
“Culture is essential in global enterprises,” said Dr. Pauline Akatsa-Hinga, Assistant Professor of International Business, “and understanding its impact on business is a key learning outcome of the graduate courses.”
This trip is central to the ethos of the recently re-launched Master of International Business degree program: moving beyond theory and getting students’ hands immersed in the real work of engaging and navigating the complex, ever-changing world of international business.