Gaining International Exposure Abroad

There are many reasons to study an MBA abroad. Some may want to break out of their comfort zone, while others look to expand their career opportunities or to become more well-rounded business professionals.

Whatever you want to get out of your MBA degree, gaining international exposure is a certain advantage if you choose to study across the border. Studying abroad provides a deeper understanding of the global market and enables you to build an international network.

Omar Cravioto traveled from Mexico to earn his MBA in Spain. In particular, to complete the  International MBA at EAE Business School in Barcelona. 

EAE Business School is an international business school emphasizing innovation, practical learning, and networking. Their mission is to prepare their graduates for success in an ever-changing business world.

Omar felt that EAE and Barcelona were ideal for the next chapter of his professional journey. Having previously worked as part of the digital team for the global bank HSBC, Omar left behind a good career in Mexico. His decision to do so was influenced by his desire to spread his wings, expand his knowledge, and develop his career in innovation. 

“I was trying to achieve some personal goals and I also wanted to have an international experience,” he tells us. (0:22)

In the International MBA program, students and professors represent every continent. Omar’s peers and professors have real-world international knowledge and experience that they bring to the classroom.

Getting global insights from his international colleagues is what Omar experiences as one of the highlights of his MBA program.

“The guys that are in my class have a lot of experience. For me, it’s very important to have conversations about previous experiences and to share ideas on how business works and how businesses are managed in different countries.” (1:23)

In the program, students learn about innovation management and digital transformation. Students develop critical thinking, entrepreneurial, and teamwork skills throughout the course. Through a hands-on approach, students are prepared for future leadership roles. 

EAE also partners with business leaders such as Google and Vodafone, among many other cutting-edge companies. Students have the unique opportunity to network with industry leaders and executives. Students become well-prepared for a career in an international business setting after graduation.

The US Track Advantage

The full-time MBA program also offers a unique US track, partnering with prestigious schools such as the University of California Berkeley or the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This cooperation adds new global insights and exposes students to more diverse learning opportunities.

Omar’s US track included a two-week program in Silicon Valley and a residential program at the UC Berkeley Extension. Currently, the two-week US track is taking place in partnership with MIT Data Science Lab. 

Students also complete online modules with US-based professors. Omar, however, was most excited about the in-person aspect of the program. 

“In March we will be going to San Francisco to actually meet our professors and have some activities in the San Francisco Bay Area,” he explained. (00:58)

The US track offers students an experiential learning opportunity. Students can network in person, making valuable new connections with peers and industry leaders in the US. Through the US track, they also have the opportunity to experience a different business culture firsthand.

Sun, Sea, and Opportunity

Choosing the right MBA for you is important. The location is also something to consider, as it can certainly add to your overall experience. Where you study can influence your professional network and opportunities after graduation. 

EAE Business School and Barcelona are a great combination. Omar describes Barcelona as a city of entrepreneurs, a digital hub, ideal for innovative thinking. 

With a vibrant tech ecosystem, the city is fueled by an entrepreneurial spirit. This provides an enticing backdrop for professionals. In recent years the city has seen enormous growth in innovative start-ups. Barcelona attracts many international businesses, creating excellent employment opportunities for recent graduates.

Omar explains, “Barcelona is an awesome city, well-connected… it is really pushing innovation through the community of entrepreneurs that are here,” he explains. (1:44)

Barcelona remains an appealing study choice for many students for many reasons. Some advantages include great year-round weather, quick and easy transport between mountains and beaches, and delectable Mediterranean restaurants. Life beyond the study books is bound to be fun, full, and adventurous.

Ultimately, EAE’s dynamic and global learning environment, combined with the vibrant setting of Barcelona, creates a unique setting for growth for the next generation of innovation leaders.

Discover more about studying at the EAE Business School and visit our EAE ambassadors page.