A transformative experience: Why we chose to study abroad at a US business school

Fawaz: One of the main reasons I pursued an on-campus degree is that my home country doesn’t recognise online or distance learning programmes.  

Studying abroad has also been a dream because it offers opportunities for personal growth and maturity. It challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, adapt to a new culture, and develop independence.  

The diversity of thought and experiences shared in classrooms enriches learning in ways that go beyond textbooks. 

Shreya: I wanted to pursue an on-campus degree because I believe in-person interactions with professors, peers, and industry leaders provide a realistic and dynamic learning experience.  

Studying abroad in the US, especially at a school like Gies, offered me the chance to immerse myself in a community of the top faculty and students from all around the world and to study in a culture that prioritises innovation and entrepreneurship.  

Fawaz: Adjusting to life in the US came with its set of challenges, including cultural differences, a different academic system, and being far from family and friends. 

However, the welcoming community at Gies and the support systems available for international students made the transition easier. Over time, I started appreciating the independence and opportunities for growth that come with living and studying abroad. 

Shreya: Adapting to life in the US has been an exciting journey. During the first few weeks, I faced challenges in adjusting to cultural differences, particularly in communication styles, academic expectations, and the overall lifestyle.  

However, attending the orientation programme was incredibly helpful, as it provided valuable insights and resources to ease the transition. The  Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program faculty went above and beyond to ensure that students felt supported and had the tools to adapt to this completely diverse culture. 

Fawaz: Gies College of Business excels at supporting international students. From the moment I applied, the admissions team went above and beyond to ensure I had all the information I needed.  

Professors are approachable and understanding, and there are plenty of student organisations where you can meet people who share your experiences. This strong support system helps international students feel a sense of belonging and comfort in a new environment. 

Shreya: Gies has been incredibly supportive of international students. From the moment I arrived, there were orientation programmes to help us settle in and connect with other students.  

The International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) team has been a great resource for everything from visa questions to cultural workshops. Gies also organises events like student mixers and career prep sessions tailored to our needs.  

There are many on-campus student organisations representing different nationalities. We also celebrate festivals from all around the world like Diwali, Lunar New Year, Holi, and even Thanksgiving.  

Fawaz: One of my favourite aspects of studying at Gies is the engaging and interactive teaching style of the professors.  

For example, Professor Yusaku Takeda’s Managing Innovation class was one of the most impactful courses I’ve taken. He has an incredible ability to tie case studies and real-world scenarios to theoretical concepts, making learning both fun and unforgettable.  

Additionally, the collaborative classroom environment, the diverse student body, and the emphasis on practical applications make the Gies experience exceptional. 

Shreya: One of my favourite aspects is the hands-on approach to learning. The experiential learning opportunities, hands-on technical skill training through alumni or student-led workshops, as well as working on real-world analytics projects with Fortune 500 companies have all been invaluable.  

I also love the collaborative environment—everyone here is willing to share their knowledge and help each other succeed. The state-of-the-art facilities and the faculty’s expertise create an inspiring place to learn. 

Fawaz: Studying in the US, particularly at Gies Business, offers significant professional advantages. The education system emphasises practical learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, which are essential in today’s dynamic business world.  

Networking opportunities with peers, alumni, and industry professionals are also abundant.  

A degree from a globally recognised institution like Gies also enhances credibility and opens doors to international career opportunities. 

Shreya: The practical learning approach here equips you with skills immediately applicable in the workplace since our classroom case studies and analytics projects are directly inspired from real-world problems.  

Additionally, a culturally diverse environment teaches you how to work with people from different backgrounds, a crucial skill in today’s globalised job market. 

Fawaz: My time at Gies has been transformative. Courses like Communication Strategy in Business with Professor James Noonan have helped me refine my career goals and taught me valuable skills in communication, leadership, and strategic thinking.  

Shreya: My time at Gies has been transformative, equipping me with the technical and strategic skills to excel in business analytics.  

The rigorous curriculum and hands-on projects prepared me to apply advanced tools and techniques in real-world scenarios, contributing directly to securing my full-time role at a top fintech company in Chicago as a Business Analyst.  

Opportunities like the Discovery Partners Institute internship, facilitated by our programme director, Professor Vishal Sachdev, and my business practicum with Caterpillar were pivotal in building my professional portfolio. 

The collaborative environment at Gies honed my teamwork skills and broadened my global perspective, which has been invaluable in working with diverse clients and stakeholders.  

Student-led consulting organisations and career services further supported my growth, offering platforms to engage with industry leaders, refine my professional skills, and confidently pursue roles aligned with my aspirations. 

Fawaz: My advice to international students would be to embrace every part of the journey, the challenges, the learning experiences, and the cultural differences.  

Most importantly, stay positive and adaptable. When you're in a new place, change is inevitable, and trust me, it’s always for the better. Don’t stay closed off, step out of your shell, attend social activities on campus, and interact with others. You’ll meet incredible, ambitious people who will inspire and motivate you.  

Studying abroad isn’t just about academic growth; it’s a transformative personal journey, and Gies College of Business provides the perfect environment for both.  

Shreya: My advice would be to embrace the journey with an open mind. Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone and take advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow: attend career fairs, networking events, workshops, and seminars from day one.  

Don’t hesitate to ask for help from professors, peers, and university staff who are there to support you.  

Lastly, explore the culture and build connections beyond the classroom. It's these experiences that make studying in the US truly rewarding.