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The International Seminar is a cornerstone of the UNLV Executive MBA. This immersive shared experience takes students into the heart of Buenos Aires, one of the most dynamic cities in Latin America. UNLV alumni and the program’s director share insights into why this study trip has such an impact.
Not all lessons happen in the classroom.
The Lee Business School at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) gives students a unique opportunity to challenge their thinking during the school’s Executive MBA program. Students are whisked away to Buenos Aires, Argentina, for the EMBA International Seminar. It’s the capstone project of the 18-month program, immersing students in one of Latin America’s most vibrant cities.
“At UNLV, we feel it’s really important not only to study international business and cases, but also to visit and see international business in person,” says Nadine Bentis, Director, Office of Executive Education at UNLV. (00:12)
During the UNLV EMBA International Seminar, students visit multiple companies across banking, manufacturing, and retail business sectors. They also work together on a real-life consulting project.
The visit provides them with an understanding and appreciation for the way business is conducted in other countries. For most UNLV EMBA students, this culturally enriching experience proves to be a standout moment in their educational journey.
The EMBA International Seminar is designed to transform a group of talented individuals into a close-knit cohort. It’s a shared educational experience that, for many, proves pivotal, both professionally and personally.
“This trip has made us closer as a cohort and has enabled us to lift each other up in new ways,” says UNLV EMBA alumna Ashley Gulbranson. (00:00) “We have spent 18 months with our cohort, and we have gotten to know each other in many different ways,” she adds. “We’ve all seen each other in bad moments, good moments, and we’ve all supported each other.” (02:32)
Another alum, Benjamin Nevares, agrees. “I’ve never traveled with a group larger than probably three people. I’ve enjoyed the complexities of it,” he says. (00:42)
Through this shared cultural immersion, students cultivate a mutual trust, develop critical soft skills, and form long-lasting friendships.
Discovering a new culture is one of the most profound aspects of the UNLV EMBA International Seminar. The program shows students a different side of business, opening their eyes to worlds they haven’t yet encountered.
“Having this planned, booked trip, where we all had to take a break from our jobs and travel has been a really meaningful experience,” says Ashley. “Back home, we never stop. Here, we’re able to step out of our worlds and dedicate a full amount of time to explore a new culture, a new country… and I am in love with it!” (00:55)
During the trip to Buenos Aires, students visit a variety of businesses, from large enterprises to local ventures. As Nadine explains, “We’re very purposeful in trying to choose countries that can have different multinational corporations as well as local startups, and also having a variety of service learning opportunities.” (00:30)
Yet, it’s not just about business. UNLV EMBA students also savor local cuisine, learn about the history of Buenos Aires and Argentina, and discover local rhythms with vibrant tango dance lessons. Through these encounters, they can better understand the cultural foundations that underpin business in Buenos Aires.
The UNLV EMBA International Seminar culminates in a consulting project. This challenges students to develop solutions to specific problems for international companies and local enterprises.
“The final project of the international center is a consulting project,” says Nadine. “This is done purposefully so students can utilize all the skill sets and experiences they’ve had throughout the program, and apply them to the consulting project.” (01:45)
Students provide their own perspectives during the consulting project. They share insights about the U.S. market and how companies can optimize their operations. At the same time, the students apply what they have learned about the local ecosystem during their trip. It’s a mutual learning experience that provides a fitting conclusion to the Executive MBA International Seminar.
In an age where information is everywhere, deep knowledge and cultural wisdom are rare commodities. This is what makes experiences like the UNLV EMBA trip to Buenos Aires so valuable. For UNLV alumni, it’s certainly an experience that stays with them.
“I’ve had students who graduated 20 years ago say that the most impactful experience they had in the Executive MBA program was these international trips,” says Nadine. “Because it made them think about how things are done, not only in the United States, but also around the world.” (03:12)
The UNLV EMBA International Seminar is all about insight, inspiration, and connection. It’s an experience that will forever change the way you view the world. As a central part of the UNLV EMBA program, it will ignite a passion for discovery, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
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