Poole College’s first International Business Dual Degree students prepare to go abroad
The end of a student’s sophomore year is not usually a time of major transition, but it will be for three students in the NC State Poole College of Management.
Caroline Ward and Hunter Kenny will be completing the second two years of their undergraduate studies in Germany, and Lubana Lanewala will complete her last two years in France. All will be taking courses in the language of their host country, and have prepared for that through their studies at NC State.
The three students are the first to participate in the International Business Dual Degree program offered by Poole College in collaboration with schools in the International Partnership of Business Schools (IPBS). Poole College is a member of the consortium of leading business schools located in Europe and the Americas. Ira Weiss, dean of Poole College, is in his second term as president of IPBS.
“Understanding the world of international business demands immersing yourself in a different culture and learning from the diversity of thought and actions around you,” said Ira R. Weiss, dean of the Poole College of Management.
“Poole's participation in the IPBS gives our students opportunities and support to accomplish these objectives,” he said. “We are very proud of these three pioneers and I know this international education experience will change and enhance their lives and future careers. “
The IPBS Dual Degree program gives students the opportunity to study for their first two years at NC State, then their last two years at the host university. The program includes a 10-week internship in the United States and a 22-week internship in the foreign country. Students are placed in the international internship based on their language proficiency.
Ward and Kenny will be completing their last two years in Germany at the ESB Business School at Reutlingen University. ESB is consistently ranked as one of the top business schools in Europe.
Lanewala will be studying in France at NEOMA Business School. Located 80 miles east of Paris, is one of few schools accredited by EQUIS, AASCB, and AMBA.
At an end-of-year send-off hosted by Rob Sandruck, director of international programs at Poole College, the students expressed their enthusiasm for this next stage in their education and were looking forward to the opportunity to live, study, and work in a different country for two years.
After completing the program, each student will receive a bachelor of science degree in business administration from NC State and a bachelor’s degree from the partner institution. Working toward two degrees in two countries over four years is a life-changing experience that will help improve the students’ career potential, provide new insights, an international perspective, and build a sense of independence, Sandruck said.
