Dr. Sarah Khan brings energy, curiosity, and a student-centered approach to Poole Global’s Summer program in Japan. With a passion for connecting classroom concepts to real-world practice, she guides students through a dynamic blend of academic rigor and cultural immersion. Her goal is to help students understand how Information Systems and operations function in a different cultural and economic context, while encouraging them to grow personally and professionally through the transformative experience of study abroad.

International Experiences

• 2026 Summer 1: Operations Management and Information Systems Management – Nagoya, Japan (Faculty-led)

What inspired you to lead a study abroad program?

Experiencing another country and its business operations, technology, and cultural values creates a kind of learning that simply can’t be replicated on campus. I wanted students to see how Information Systems and operations function in a different cultural and economic context.

Why do you enjoy teaching abroad with students?

Teaching abroad lets me watch students grow in real time as they navigate uncharted territories, apply their academic knowledge, and learn to see the world through different perspectives. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness their curiosity, adaptability, and confidence deepen each day.

What are you most excited about for the upcoming program?

I’m most looking forward to guiding a new group of students through the same mix of academic rigor and cultural immersion. Each cohort brings its own energy, and I can’t wait to see what insights they uncover as they explore Japan’s business practices, traditions, and everyday life.

What can students expect to learn from this experience?

Academically, students gain a rich understanding of Information Systems management, operations management, and global business practices, supported by company visits, lectures, and real-world observation. Culturally, they learn how Japanese values such as precision, respect, and collective responsibility shape business operations and daily interactions. Overall, they leave with stronger analytical skills, cultural awareness, and confidence in themselves.

Any favorite local experiences or recommendations for students?

Our partners at Nagoya University are incredible hosts who help bring Japan to life for our students. I always encourage students to visit Nagoya Castle, the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, and the Osu shopping district. Exploring Japan’s cafés, side streets, shrines, and public parks is part of the charm. The scavenger hunt is designed to motivate students to explore the city.

What advice would you give to students preparing to study abroad?

Stay open, curious, and flexible. Some of your most meaningful learning will happen when you try something unfamiliar, whether it’s navigating public transit, speaking basic Japanese phrases, or participating in cultural activities. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, challenge yourself, and reflect often.

How does international experience enhance a student’s business education or career prospects?

International experience helps students understand how culture, business strategy, and operations vary across global markets. It strengthens adaptability, communication, and problem-solving skills employers value deeply. In this program specifically, students also gain a better sense of how technology and business processes function in different environments, which gives them a competitive edge.

How is your course different when taught abroad?

When taught abroad, the course becomes more dynamic, immersive, and experiential. Concepts from the classroom are reinforced immediately through real-world exposure via company visits, cultural practices, and everyday observations. Students learn collaboratively from each other and from their environment. Doing an exam review in a coffee shop and sharing an all-you-can-eat chicken dinner afterwards has its own charm.

Why You Should Go!

Studying abroad is transformative in ways you can’t fully anticipate. Give yourself permission to explore, engage, and stretch beyond your comfort zone. The experiences you gain—in the classroom, in the city, and in your interactions—will stay with you long after the trip ends.