Students from the Frank G. Zarb School of Business at Hofstra University recently embarked on a transformative global business immersion experience in London. The trip was part of three spring courses and aimed to provide students with hands-on exposure to influential business leaders worldwide. Led by Richard Hayes and Jieqiong Ma, the students engaged with executives from renowned companies like Apple UK, Eli Lilly, and Black Seed, a venture capital firm based in London.
The itinerary also included visits to the Museum of Brands and Impact Brixton, a community-focused entrepreneurial hub. The students had the opportunity to interact with CEOs, startup leaders, and alumni, gaining valuable insights into global business practices and innovation. For finance major Josiah Royes, the experience in South London’s Brixton neighborhood was particularly inspiring, reinforcing his aspiration to pursue international finance or work with NGOs.
Throughout the trip, students like Royes learned about the importance of soft skills in the global business landscape. Encounters with industry experts, such as Harland Evans from Nature Based Ltd., emphasized the value of cross-cultural perspectives and language proficiency in professional settings. These insights resonated with the students, shaping their understanding of how to leverage their unique strengths in a global context.
The highlight of the journey came when the students visited the prestigious London Stock Exchange (LSE) and were given the rare honor of closing the market. Elizabeth Hernandez, a business administration student, was selected to press the closing button, while the entire group signed the Exchange’s Welcome Book, a tradition preserved in the UK’s National Archives. The students’ participation in this ceremonial event underscored the growing recognition of Hofstra’s Zarb School for its innovative and internationally focused curriculum.
Dean Janet Lenaghan expressed pride in the program’s success, highlighting its role in shaping students’ global perspectives and enhancing their readiness for the evolving job market. As part of Hofstra’s strategic plan, such experiential learning initiatives exemplify the university’s commitment to providing students with real-world experiences that bridge academic knowledge with practical skills.
For Hernandez, the London immersion experience was not only a professional milestone but also a personal revelation. It instilled in her a newfound confidence in pursuing her goals and exploring diverse career paths. The trip reaffirmed her belief in the transformative power of experiential education and the significance of embracing opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
By immersing themselves in London’s vibrant business environment and engaging with industry leaders, Hofstra students gained valuable insights into the global economy. The trip underscored the importance of adaptability, cultural awareness, and a proactive mindset in navigating the complexities of international business. As the students returned to campus, they carried with them a wealth of experiences and lessons that will undoubtedly shape their future endeavors in the dynamic world of business.