IBDD Freshmen and Sophomores

Louis Berlind

Freshman
German Track
Concentration: To Be Determined

“I chose to pursue the NC State IBDD program because it gives me the opportunity to study in the United States and Germany. When I found out about the IBDD program, I got in contact with some of their representatives and current students. After walking around campus, and hearing about the program first-hand, it clicked to me that this program was for me. I am most excited to go abroad and learn more about the business discipline from an international perspective. IBDD will be an ideal preparation for me to work in the field of international business in multiple countries. While the programming appears intense, and at times scary, there is always an incredibly strong support system there. Since the day I was accepted to NC State the IBDD team has been there for me. In just the first few weeks of school, I’ve had the opportunity to network with other IBDD’ers who have assured me that I am not alone. If you want to study business and travel abroad, this is the program for you.”

Chloe Burleson

Sophomore
Spanish Track

“I chose NC State and the IBDD program because of the opportunity to study what I love abroad while learning more about other languages, people, and cultures. I am looking forward to exploring outside of the US and meeting awesome people! I believe this program will help me achieve my career goals by presenting me with the opportunity to connect with like-minded people across the globe.”

Advice: “This program will connect you with friends that become family, an impressive education, and the experience of a lifetime.”

Isabelle Huller

Freshman
Spanish Track
Concentration: To Be Determined

“After high school I knew that I wanted to continue my Spanish education with the hope to someday become bilingual. The IBDD Program provides me with an opportunity to not only improve my Spanish proficiency but also to live abroad and study business. I am especially looking forward to living in Madrid and getting to meet a bunch of new people from all around the world. This program will allow me to immerse myself in the Spanish culture and give me the experience of a lifetime. If you’re thinking about applying, just do it! This is an opportunity you will most likely never receive again, so take advantage of it while you can!”

Kirsten Jensen

Sophomore
French Track

“I have always valued different cultures and loved the idea of traveling. After taking four years of French during high school I knew this program would be an excellent opportunity for me; I am very drawn to its uniqueness and how immersive it is. I am looking forward to meeting new people and getting the opportunity for a one of a kind experience academically and culturally.”

Advice: “Try to take all four years of your language of choice during high school. Also, take as many AP/Community College transfer credits as possible that can transfer to NCSU; it will lighten your college course load since this is a double major program!”

Lawrence Kee

Freshman
Spanish Track
Concentration: To Be Determined

“I chose NC State because of IBDD and I chose IBDD because I love traveling and experiencing different cultures. Becoming immersed in the cultures and living amongst the cultures is something I’ve always wanted to do. I’m looking forward to the many different opportunities, internships, and people that will be met over the course of the program. I feel like the IBDD program would broaden my horizons and options when it comes to career choices internationally for as a career goal of mine is to work internationally. If you plan to apply to join our program, my advice would be to learn how to manage your time wisely, take dual enrollment courses for courses that you need, and learn how to study effectively.”

Sarah Levering

Freshman
German Track
Concentration: To Be Determined

I have always loved traveling, and I knew I wanted to study abroad in college. I chose the IBDD program because it gives me the opportunity to go to Germany for 2 years, instead of just 1 or 2 semesters, and to expand upon my knowledge of the German language and culture. I am excited to learn more about the world, and I believe that this program will best prepare me for a career in international business.
My best advice for prospective IBDD students is to be willing to work hard for the amazing experience this program offers, and to reach out to the staff and other students in IBDD for anything you may need.

Kate Sappenfield

Freshman
Spanish Track
Concentration: To Be Determined

“I chose NC State’s IBDD Program because I am able to study in Spain and improve my language skills. This has always been a dream of mine! I am looking forward to meeting people from all around the world all with a passion for languages. I am excited to learn from my peers about culture, business, and different countries. The ability to complete two degrees in four years, along with two internships will allow me to achieve my career goals. My advice to those interested in this program is to be excited! Fall in love with learning a foreign language and be thrilled for your future. Passion and hardwork will deliver you where you want to go.”

Sarah Stevens

Sophomore
Spanish Track

“I was driven to join the IBDD Program because of the countless benefits and global knowledge that I will receive. In my time abroad I am looking forward to being able to travel and experience a wide variety of new cultures. I anticipate that this program will help me achieve my career goals by retaining a better understanding and global knowledge of the workforce.”

Advice: “I would give the advice that you need to be ready to work hard in order to obtain the amazing opportunities that will result with this program.”

Katlyn Swierczynski

Sophomore
French Track
Concentration: Supply Chain Management

“I chose to pursue NC State’s IBDD Program because it gave me the opportunity to pursue my passion for French while training me to be successful in the global market. This program allows me to connect with the culture of France on a level completely different from any other semester study abroad experience! I am really looking forward to the different style of university at NEOMA and am excited to embrace how different my classes and university life will be! I am also looking forward to traveling across Europe and visiting my friends in other IBDD language tracks! IBDD will not only prepare me to be a successful leader in the world of international business, but also give me the crucially important skills to be culturally aware and prepared for any situation.”

Advice: “Don’t hesitate to reach out to our amazing director Mr. Sandruck, he is so helpful!”

Loridana Foksha

Freshman
Spanish Track
Concentration: To Be Determined

All my life, I’ve been lucky enough to have had exposure to cultures different from mine. The more knowledge I gained, the more passionate I was about learning about the world outside of my own. The IBDD program instantly caught my eye because I’ve dreamed of traveling and living in that world. I am most looking forward to getting out of my comfort zone: Meeting new people, practicing different traditions, learning new things, gaining experiences, and constantly changing my perspective and outlook. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for me personally as well as academically and professionally. To be fluent in multiple languages, to have connections with others outside of the US, to have had previous involvement in different countries, and to gain skills I wouldn’t otherwise have gained are just a few things I would have under my belt. Never be afraid to reach out to the people inside the program. That includes the students as well as Mr. Sandruck!