EDITOR’S NOTE

Neasa Hapiak works with Valdosta State

University students and faculty on a study-abroad program in Turkey. She shared these insights.

Turkey is an ideal place for Valdosta State University students to study and experience international business concepts for a myriad of reasons.

It is the gateway to Asia from Europe allowing for a diverse business environment embracing different ways of doing business. Turkey is also an important military ally of the U.S. in this region which mirrors a similar geo-political direction which is also an important factor towards a thriving private sector.

Valdosta State University students have recently returned from the third year of the Langdale College of Business’ summer study abroad program based at Yeditepe University in Istanbul, Turkey. Yeditepe University is a foundation-run university located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey.

Seven undergraduate and six graduate students travelled to Turkey this year with the program director, Valdosta State University Professor of Economics Dr. Zulal Denaux, and Valdosta State University Professor of Accounting Dr. Raymond Elson. This year’s program ran from May 18 through June 14.

Importance of Study Abroad

The world is increasingly connected, and businesses must adapt to the new globalized world, remaining true to their corporate principles while being sensitive to cultural differences in new markets.  

Young professionals with international experience provided by even a short study abroad program will have the increased cultural awareness that today’s businesses need. Recent studies have shown that study abroad increases measures of academic performance in vital areas such as GPA and graduation rates.

The goal of this study abroad program is to train our future global leaders to be more effective, knowledgeable of their own and other cultures, more experienced with other economic and political systems, and more aware of the world around them. We are committed to producing graduates who are ready to deal with the challenges of the global market.

Why Turkey?

Turkey is an important trade partner of the United States and European Union; and as a member of NATO, Turkey is a strategic ally of the United States. Its strategic importance is owed in part to its location as the bridge between East and West, geographically connecting the continents of Europe and Asia.

Istanbul has been at the crossroads of civilization throughout history, being the former capital of three successive empires: Roman, Byzantium, and Ottoman. With its growing economy, Turkey is again becoming an important player both regionally and globally.

“Business in Turkey” — Here’s how it works

“Business in Turkey” is designed to allow students to meet with international and domestic companies in different sectors based in Istanbul, Turkey, and to learn from their leaders important aspects of business success in a global world. The intense four-week program combines classroom instruction with presentations conducted at a variety of businesses and cultural site visits, as well as ample opportunity to for students to interact with local industry and people.

This program is fully committed to LCOBA’s objective to produce graduates that can navigate world markets and is aligned with VSU’s major strategic initiatives in its five-year strategic plan. By combining classes, company, and cultural visits, students are able to understand many aspects of business operations internationally. Additionally, a Turkish History and Culture class taught by Yeditepe University Assistant Professor at the Department of Political Science and International Relations Sakir Dincsahin is offered to help students explore this vibrant culture more fully.  

 

Comments

Here is what some of the business students had to say about their experience.

Anna Vasquez, international business major: “Studying abroad in Istanbul, Turkey was the best decision and investment I have ever made. I learned so much about the rich history and culture of this remarkable place.”

Shealy Kulp, marketing major: “There are not enough words in the English (or Turkish) language to describe my experience here in Turkey. Turkey was breathtakingly beautiful and offered an adventure around every corner. The people, food, and culture was nothing like I expected it to be. Everyone was so welcoming to the ‘Americans.’ I am forever grateful that I had the opportunity to study abroad. Not only have I gained amazing memories and experiences, but also 12 new friends.”

Kenneth Jackson, accounting major: “Words cannot express how grateful I am to have had the opportunity to study abroad in the Republic of Turkey. I know this saying gets thrown around a lot, but this will literally be a place I’ll never forget. This trip definitely opened my eyes to the world around me, and through it I’ve become more accepting of new people in different cultures.”

William Gilbert, MBA: “When I went to Turkey, I didn’t know what to expect. What I found was deeper than words can express. I have gained more appreciation for people, culture, business and myself. It has opened me up to new experiences. If I only get to visit one country, I’m glad it was Turkey.”

Gabriel Terrell, MBA: “I thought I would be spending a month in the desert and would be stuck in a classroom learning the ‘boring’ version of Turkish history. I could not have been more wrong. I’ve seen places and met people I will never forget. Study abroad has made an impact on my life that is everlasting and has served as pathway to allow me to learn not only more about a different part of the world, but about myself.”

Miatta Sonii, international business: “My trip to Turkey has broadened my mind more than I could’ve ever imagined. The culture, the people, the sites, and especially the food! Turkey will forever have a place in my heart.”

Jasmine Brooks, marketing: “The Turkey study abroad program gave me an experience I could never forget. I learned so much about Turkey’s culture, businesses, schools, history and religion. Before coming on this trip I feared the way the people in Turkey would treat us. I’m glad I didn’t’t let that stop me from coming because the Turkish people are so welcoming and their hospitality is like no other.”

Sarah Sellers, master’s in accounting: “Turkey was absolutely breathtaking and never ceased to amaze me. The people, food, and culture here was so much different than anything I’ve ever experienced in the United States. I will definitely miss this country but plan on visiting again, especially the Cappadocia region. This trip has given me a lifetime of memories that I’ll be forever grateful for.”

Brianna Matchett, interdisciplinary studies: “This has definetly broadened my horizons on life outside of the U.S. The people I have the opportunity to meet while in Turkey played inspirational roles sculpting my life-altering experience.

Deepest gratitude goes to the many people who have made this program, and its third year, successful. Special thanks to Dr. Wayne Plumly, LCOBA’s dean of the Harley Langdale Jr. College of Business, who has given his support and advice throughout all stages of the program. We appreciate the leadership provided by the Dean of the Law School at Yeditepe University, Dr. Haluk Kabaalioglu, without whom this program would not have been possible.  

The program would not be successful without the financial support of the Georgia Gulf Sulfur Corporation’s CEO Jerry Jennett and President Jesse Maranville. They have been on board with this program from the beginning and all students are deeply grateful for the grant that made so much of their experience possible. It is vital also to thank the Turkish companies and professionals who took the time to give our students thorough and informative presentations. Special thanks go to the Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Asia, Nestle Corporation Turkey, the Central Bank of Turkey and Isbank. They are the basis of this 2014 Study Abroad program to Turkey and the students are grateful to have been given such an incredible business experience.

The greatest thanks must be given to VSU’s own faculty, Dr. Ray Elson and Dr. Zulal Denaux, who give this program its life and guide students through an experience they will remember always. We should also recognize LCOBA’s Study Abroad committee members for their support of our globalization initiatives.