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Michigan Export Growth Program

As an international company based out of Michigan, we were blown away by the quality of work and details reported by the Michigan Export Growth Program from Michigan State University.  Our international sales manager teaches at a university in Europe and stated, "I wish our students produced reports of this caliber."  We are excited to use the information provided to work on new business partnerships overseas. 

Scott Fisher
Business Development & Event Coordinator

Aster Brands, Redi-Rock, & Rosetta Hardscapes

Aster Brands, Redi-Rock, & Rosetta Hardscapes, Business Development & Event Coordinator

Michigan Export Growth Program

This is very well done! A huge thank you to you and your team at MSU for the hard work of putting together this report for us!  I am learning so much reading through this and it will help us tremendously as we seek to expand our reach into other countries!  We appreciate you very much!  Thank you again for all the help you provide to small businesses each year in Michigan!

James Malburg 

General Manager 

Child1st Publications 

P 800.881.0912 | F 888.886.1636 

Child1st.com 

James Malburg, Child1st Publications, General Manager

Michigan Export Growth Program

My work with MEGP provided me with great work experience and strong connections. While market research is not directly applicable to my major, accounting, I learned important skills of teamwork, communication, project management, and many others while working with the IBC. Also, having the opportunity to lead project teams as a college student gave me great leadership experience. It was these skills and experiences that led to receiving internships at Deloitte and BDO. I also made great connections with faculty and students while working at the IBC. I believe these connections will benefit me professionally and socially for years to come. I really value my time at the IBC and would highly recommend it to any business student.

Michael Rotondo, MEGP Team Lead

Michigan Export Growth Program

We are very impressed by the Icom market research report you and your team developed for us. The report was comprehensive, and besides being full of key information, it adroitly reached into the reality in the various countries researched. Well done and much appreciated!

Icom North America, Albert Venezio

Michigan Export Growth Program

(The sections on) the Market Research Report itself and the country breakout sections within it that looked at aerospace & defense in each country (was particularly helpful). That's exactly what we discussed and what we found most useful. The team did a thorough and professional job. The report you and your team produced is outstanding and exceeds expectation.  Nice job, greatly appreciated! 

Gordon Cole, KCS Advanced Machining Services

globalEDGE

Coming into my role at the International Business Center as a part of the globalEDGE team as a freshman, I didn’t know what to expect; however, after starting I quickly realized the inclusive work environment that had been created stemming from staff members all the way down to the newest of student team members such as myself. Throughout my two years as a research assistant, I learned a plethora of skills as well as life lessons thanks to the great people I was afforded the opportunity to work with as well as all the different experiences I was able to part take in. Whether those experiences were working on projects and blogs for globalEDGE or going downtown Lansing to meet with fortune 500 companies with the MEGP team, all opportunities truly helped me to develop personally, as well as professionally. Ultimately, my time at the International Business Center is something that I will cherish forever and will always look back on as the foundation of my professional career in the business world.

Cameron Cieslik, Research Assistant, 2019-2021

Michigan Export Growth Program

My time working at the Michigan Export Growth Program (MEGP) has been bountiful in experiences, where my role involved conducting market research, organizing spreadsheet data, and more. The invaluable experience I gained in interpersonal skills, interviewing, and researching greatly expanded my horizons, allowing me to serve in high positions in school clubs. Despite being online throughout the school year, patient and accommodating staff members and peers truly helped me gain the most by joining. They guided me through my first reports and blog posts and continued assisting me through the end of the year. Overall, MEGP is something I would recommend every business student do to help introduce them to the business world, I enjoyed my time here, and I am sure the next generation of students will be happy to work here too!

Pranav Shukla, Research Assistant, 2020-2021

globalEDGE

Over the last 2 years, I have had the privilege of working with the globalEDGE team at Michigan State’s International Business Center.  My main responsibilities of overseeing the Database of International Business Statistics (DIBS) section of the site and writing blog posts have greatly benefited both my ability to work in Excel, as well as to be an effective writer.  Beyond these improvements, I enjoyed growing my knowledge of international business and current events, as well as gaining experience working in a team-oriented environment.  Being surrounded by such a great group of peers and leaders made work each day exciting -- even through all the challenges we faced this year working in a virtual environment.  I am very grateful for the personal development and connections working in the IBC gave me as I move forward in my education and professional career, and I look forward to seeing how the site evolves over time.

John Biberstein, Research Assistant, 2019-2021

globalEDGE

As the fourth year of my time at globalEDGE, and my second year as the team lead, comes to an end, I will be finishing my education at Michigan State with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Supply Chain Management and will be graduating with honors as part of the Honors College.  globalEDGE is a big part of why I was able to be successful in college and I am taking away many important life lessons and skills that stem from the opportunities I have had here at the International Business Center.

My introduction to globalEDGE came without any knowledge of what I was expected to do, other than to work on an international business website.  Over the next four years, my experience proved to be so much more than I could have expected.  My first two years working at gE as a research assistant exposed me to a wide variety of projects, from writing international business blogs, to diving into complex statistics updates, to taking on-site redesigns.  Throughout this time, I was able to develop a sturdy base of peers and coworkers that I could look up to, become friends with, and learn from as I took on the rigors of college.

During my final two years at globalEDGE, I have been extremely thankful to have served as the team lead.  This has been an invaluable experience for me, and taking on a team with only two returning students my first year put me in a position to develop relationships, to take ownership of website tasks, and to practice and hone my leadership skills.  I can easily look back and see the improvement in my communication, decision-making, and strategic ability as a result of being the globalEDGE team lead, and it is a position that I will always hold in a high esteem.

At the end of the day, the technical skills I have learned at globalEDGE have proven to be consistently useful in my internship experiences and will continue to serve me as I join Lockheed Martin as part of their Operations Leadership Development Program.  However, even more beneficial has been the network that I have gained because of my time in the International Business Center.  I look forward to seeing the future of the website and will remember my time at globalEDGE as a key part in kickstarting my professional career.

Andrew Menke, globalEDGE Team Lead, 2019-2021

Michigan Export Growth Program

The report we received contained excellent, easy to understand information, in a professional, well-organized format.  It can be used to obtain insight and direction quickly or serve as a reference over the long-term.  Michigan State University's MEGP program's outstanding reputation is truly deserved.

Richard Corson, Manager, Global Business Development, Srinergy

Michigan Export Growth Program

Working for the MEGP team in the International Business Center helped inculcate a deep interest in International Business. My previous experience with academic research supported me in understanding more about this part of the business but not at a level as deeply meaningful as the work I got to do in IBC as a senior. I have learned more about the deep intricacies of international trade that I believe would have been impossible with just classes. These experiences have helped me consider a career in consulting and market research and I ended up getting an additional minor in International Business. IBC helped me work with real clients and attempt to solve their problems through well-crafted reports reflecting our learnings of international business. This knowledge is something that I will be carrying with me to my following academic endeavors and my professional career.

Shankho S. Bhattacharjee, Research Assistant, 2019-2020

globalEDGE

Working at the IBC with the globalEDGE team has been one of the most rewarding college experiences. For the past three years, I was exposed to a variety of international business news and issues around the world. It helped to sharpen my global mindset while working amongst some of Broad’s brightest students. Throughout my work, I was able to advance my writing and Excel skills through numerous challenging projects. I am very thankful for my years at globalEDGE. It provided a strong foundation for my success in future careers and introduced me to connections that will continue to influence me for the rest of my life.

Jiachen (Jessica) Mo, Research Assistant, 2017-2020

Michigan Export Growth Program

This past year I joined the Michigan Export Growth Program (MEGP). As an International Relations major, I knew I was interested in researching international markets and helping Michigan businesses expand abroad. I was a little hesitant to start this job as a senior, as most have been working there for years, but I was quickly taught the ways of the International Business Center through my peers. This work and research has broadened my horizon to the larger business world and has allowed me to conduct research and solve programs that are applied in the real world. This year working for MEGP I have grown professionally through conference calls and working with those who are looking to expand their companies. My research skills also improved immensely as did my analytical and communication skills. Every day I looked forward to going into the office and being able to do research that made a difference. I know that I will take these skills that I have learned from the International Business Center and apply them in my future jobs.

Alexa Bernstein, Research Assistant, 2019-2020

Michigan Export Growth Program

I am so thankful for my time at the IBC. Before joining the team, I had no idea how to conduct research nor did I understand the indicators businesses are looking for when expanding abroad. As time went on, however, I begin to gain a grasp of these priceless skills. I must highlight how relevant the work we do at the IBC is. Students have the incredible opportunity to work directly with business leaders and assist them in their international goals. While this is a great responsibility, you are supported by an outstanding team. The staff and students are exceptional. Erkan, Jade, and Irem are eager to help, receptive, and great leaders. I’m thankful for my time at the IBC and look forward to seeing the next generation of students to continue its amazing legacy.

Gabe Guimond, Research Assistant, 2017-2020

Michigan Export Growth Program

Working for the Michigan Export Growth Program in MSU’s International Business Center was an incredible honor and was the highlight of my time at MSU. Being an international market researcher has allowed me to gain an extensive amount of knowledge on analyzing industries, reading markets and noticing trends, the intricacies of international trade, and the global business economy as a whole. Throughout my time at the IBC, I have grown professionally and personally by expanding my skill set while making life-long friends. The work we do is highly valuable and allows students to gain real-world experience by working directly with companies and learning skills that will propel them for a career after graduation. I highly recommend being a student researcher, as it is the most rewarding and beneficial job for any business student.

Nolan Schroeder, Research Assistant, 2019-2020

Education Abroad - Startup Nation: Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Israel's High-tech Ecosystem

My name is Meredith Sims, and I'm a junior Accounting major at Michigan State University. I am writing to you to express my sincere gratitude for the scholarship you awarded me to study abroad in Israel. A vast majority of my education at MSU is thanks to scholarships and grants, so I've always been thankful for the resources to attend this university. Never would I have imagined traveling abroad as an undergraduate. You all have gifted me a life-changing opportunity and I am so incredibly thankful for your generosity!

When I return from my education abroad experience, I plan to use it to integrate my new knowledge of global business and entrepreneurship with my Accounting background and interest in global tax.

Thank you again for this opportunity, and I intend to do the same for a student in the future to "lift as I climb," the motto of my student organization, the National Association of Black Accountants.

Meredith Sims, Education Abroad Scholarship Recipient, Spring 2020

globalEDGE

Over the past five years, I have had the privilege of working on the globalEDGE team within Michigan State University’s International Business Center. I began working at globalEDGE as a research assistant on my very first day on campus as a freshman and ended my globalEDGE career as a graduate assistant on my last day at Michigan State University. Over the course of these five years, I experienced tremendous growth, both personally and professionally, due in no small part to my work at globalEDGE.

As a freshman, I was unsure of what I wanted to do with my future career. globalEDGE introduced me to the world of international business and provided me an opportunity to develop relationships with like-minded individuals who would go on to become some of my best friends and mentors. When I decided to study accounting, I knew that I wanted my future job to have an international business aspect and I am happy to say that I will be starting my career in international taxation with PricewaterhouseCoopers.

One of my primary responsibilities on the globalEDGE team was as editor in chief of the globalEDGE blog. Managing the globalEDGE blog forced me to develop better writing skills and to stay informed of current events on an international scale. Reading daily news stories from around the globe helped me develop into a more well-rounded individual and sparked my love of traveling.

While I learned many technical skills at globalEDGE, my biggest takeaway will be the interpersonal skills I developed. During my last two years I globalEDGE, I had the opportunity to serve as the undergraduate research team leader. Over these two years, while working with our undergraduate research team, I developed numerous leadership and communication skills that will be invaluable in my future career.

I am extremely grateful for my five years at globalEDGE and looking back it is exciting to see all the changes and improvements we made to the website in my time as a research assistant. As I go out into the professional world I will continue to keep up with the website and the blog and am confident that I will find a use for globalEDGE’s immense bank of data and resources throughout my career.

Tyler J. Beck, globalEDGE Team Lead, 2015-2019

globalEDGE

Working at MSU-CIBER as part of the globalEDGE team, for the past three years, has taught me many important skills and valuable lessons. I began my role at globalEDGE working on the Database of International Business Statistics (DIBS) section of the website and the country insights page. My work was primarily done in excel updating and creating sources for our users. At the begging of my second year, I was responsible for all of DIBS and have now overseen DIBS for the past two years. I have improved my excel skills throughout my time at globalEDGE as well as my overall international business knowledge through the process of updating international country statistics.

In addition to this, globalEDGE helped me professionally as I discussed projects and experiences, I had at globalEDGE in my interviews. I believe the projects I worked on and the knowledge and lessons I gained from working here set me apart from other candidates. Lastly, the professional development I gained from working in this office has made transitioning to the corporate world much easier. I am truly grateful for the experiences I had at globalEDGE and will take the lessons and skills I have learned with me as I begin my full-time role as a consultant.

Caroline Mansour, Research Assistant, 2016-2019

globalEDGE

Working at globalEDGE in the International Business Center for the past two years has been a highlight of my college career. It’s given me the ability to learn about current events through blogging, contribute to the development of a new webpage, and follow trends in global data. I was also able to work cross-functionally with the individuals from the Broad Department of Education Abroad, and researched strategies of how college can improve in this field. This position allowed me to excel in a professional setting and gave me real-world business experience that will contribute to my post-graduate employment. The skillsets of time management, interpersonal communication, and working on team-based assignments will be traits that I will carry forward throughout my life.

Kevin Caldwell, Research Assistant, 2017-2019

Michigan Export Growth Program

Michigan Export Growth Program (MEGP) has been one of the highlights of my time at Michigan State University. The work we do is broadly applicable in the larger business world and has helped me grow as a professional. I have gained both soft and hard skills relating to my chosen field - marketing research. The soft skills include client communication, leadership, organization, and teamwork. Hard skills include analytical skills, a global mindset, and exposure to a wide range of industries. I would highly recommend MEGP to any students looking for professional development experience, as well as any organizations seeking to gain a better understanding of international markets.

Jesse Jeppesen, MEGP Team Lead, 2016-2019

Michigan Export Growth Program

Over the past three years, working on the MEGP team has allowed me to gain an extensive amount of knowledge in international business and given me a real-world environment to apply classroom concepts. Throughout my time on the team I was able to grow as a professional, working on my research, analytical, organizational, leadership, and communication skills. I am confident that the experience I gained working on this team helped me secure my full-time job offer in Wealth Management. Being a part of this program was an overwhelmingly positive experience and I will forever value the skills I was able to gain because of it.

Tyler Sites, Research Assistant, 2016-2019

Michigan Export Growth Program

Working at the IBC made huge contributions to my professional and personal growth. The center prepared me for the business world by assigning me projects where I had to learn the supply chain, marketing, and economics of industries in several countries. Aside from these hands-on experiences, the center enhanced my skills in teamwork, communicating, and writing. Best on-campus job ever!

Adriana Cailao, Research Assistant, 2016-2017

Education Abroad - Marketing and Business in London

"I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the acceptance of the scholarship. I highly appreciate your support and the opportunity to be selected as a recipient. I promise to work very hard during my trip to London and beyond the trip. This honor has motivated me to perform at my highest potential and eventually make an impact for others."

Jordan Jose

Education Abroad - Marketing and International Comparative Dimensions of Business in Europe

"I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your generous donation through a study abroad scholarship. I am sincerely honored to have been selected as a recipient. As I complete my program in London, I am thankful for your thoughtful gift, because of your scholarship, I will get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn about international product channels, service markets, and cultural mores and folkways essential to conducting international business. Thank you again!

Simrit Brara, Student

Michigan Export Growth Program

My time spent with the MEGP team was one of the most impactful experiences of my undergraduate career. Not only was I able to apply my academic studies to a professional setting, but I was also able to do so while helping Michigan companies expand internationally in the process. The research conducted, reports written, and client-relation opportunities afforded me a valuable working knowledge of key business topics in a globalized context. The Michigan Export Growth Program is vital to small- and medium-sized Michigan businesses, as well as every student fortunate to have spent time there as part of the MEGP team.

Audrey Gagner, Research Assistant, 2016-2018

Education Abroad - University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia

To Study Abroad Donors,

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this generous gift! This money will help me fund my semester in Sydney, Australia. I could not be more excited to have this opportunity to learn and grow as a person and student. I am also excited to be able to bring back the knowledge I will obtain while abroad, with the hopes that it will help me not only in my last semesters here at MSU, but also in the business world and other future endeavors. Thank you again for helping me reach one of my lifelong dreams. Without your generosity, this may not have been attainable!

Addison LaVoie, Student

Education Abroad - Marketing & International Comparative Dimensions of Business in Europe-Session II

Dear Eli Broad College of Business, I am writing to thank you for awarding me with a scholarship of $500. With this scholarship, I will be able to study abroad in Europe and extend my knowledge and understanding of varying cultures around the world, without the burden of worrying about financial struggles. This scholarship means so much to me and my mom because she can't provide aid to me financially. She would have never been able to send me abroad. Thank you so much!

Sara Smith, Student

globalEDGE

Working at globalEDGE for the past two and a half years has certainly been an enjoyable learning experience. Not only was it a pleasure to work at globalEDGE, but the amount of knowledge I was able to gain from working there is just astounding. From updating various statistics and history timelines to creating the Current Topics in IB section, I was able to expand my knowledge in various aspects of international business. Additionally, writing for globalEDGE’s Blog was probably my favorite part of this job, as it allowed me to do my own research on hot topics in IB, summarize it in a few paragraphs, and spread that knowledge with our users.

This job is one of the few ones out there that gives back as much as you put in. I was able to enhance my analytical, excel, writing, and research skills throughout my time at globalEDGE and I will carry that with me to my full-time consulting job afterwards and any other job in the future.

Ramie Taher, Research Assistant, 2016-2018

globalEDGE

Working as a Research Assistant at MSU-CIBER on the globalEDGE team allowed me to not only explore topics in global affairs, international development, and emerging markets, but also develop skills within data analytics, professional writing, and project management. The former enabled me to excel in coursework across the university and the latter helped during my internships/professional career in the financial services industry.

Writing the Global Insights by Country pages taught me how to turn quantitative and qualitative information into valuable research that students, working professionals, and academics could leverage. Furthermore, building out the TradeBloc section of the globalEDGE site was instrumental in my understanding of how intergovernmental partnerships worked and why they are crucial in economic stability. I was able to take my research knowledge and apply it to my finance and economics courses. ..."No man is an island." That philosophy was underlined many times during my internships and first job out of college. To succeed in an interconnected world - regardless of whether it is from an academic or professional sense - understanding the nuances international business is critical. From an intellectual perspective, the functions of a global economy became clearer to me working at globalEDGE

On a personal level, the amount of accountability placed on me as a student research assistant at globalEDGE helped me mature into the professional I am today.

Manesha Sampath, Research Assistant, 2011-2015

Chaffey College

Since I last spoke with you our AA degree in International Business has been approved! I will always be very grateful to the guidance that I received with your CIBER. I hope to be involved again in the future!

Thierry Brusselle, Professor, Business Administration

International Business Mgmt in Western Europe

The International Business Management Program I went on in May 2017 helped me to grow significantly as both an individual and as a professional. I was able to fully immerse myself in the culture of five different Western European countries, which broadened my perspective on how others view the world. Additionally, I was able to interact and learn from incredible global companies and leaders. Due to this experience, I am already planning my next trip abroad! 

Peyton Pawlusiak, Student

Michigan Export Growth Program

Working at MEGP for the past 4 years has helped me develop my analytical, professional writing, and communication skills by giving me opportunities to work with industry professionals in addition to my peers. These skills paired with the market research experience helped me secure my internship and full-time job offer in Commercial Banking.

Shivani Sankar, 2016-2017 Academic Year MEGP Team Lead

Michigan Export Growth Program

The Michigan Export Growth Program has allowed me to grow as a professional through communication with clients, organizing team abilities/talents as well as develop my understanding for international business. Being a part of this program for three years has been the best experience to help start my career.

Scott Schwartz, 2016-2017 Academic Year MEGP Team Lead

globalEDGE

Over the past 4 years, I have had the privilege of working for globalEDGE through MSU’s Center for International Business Education & Research. Because of this I have gained invaluable experience working with data collection, team projects, and project management. Additionally, I have been able to adapt to a corporate environment long before I begin my full-time employment. I feel fortunate enough to have had three full years of this experience before I applied for my first internship, and I wholeheartedly believe that it set me apart as a candidate when I began with my job search.

I will be graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Supply Chain Management as well as a minor in Spanish. In a few short months, I will begin my first full-time job as a Forecast Analyst at Delta Faucet Company in Indianapolis, Indiana, and after a year I will begin my second rotation in MASCO’s Accelerated Career Experience program. I truly believe that my experience at globalEDGE has more than prepared me for what is to come with regards to my professional opportunities. With any job related to supply chain management, it can be expected that there will be international relationships that need to be managed and maintained. When I did my internship with Nissan in their NAFTA Logistics department, I was able to utilize not only my Spanish-speaking skills, but also my knowledge of data collection and international cultures to complete my projects and day-to-day tasks. 

I feel extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to work on globalEDGE these past four years. I have learned many skills that my classes could not have taught me. My experience at CIBER has helped me to land my internship and future full-time job, and I have no doubt that I will use these experiences throughout the rest of my professional career.

Meagan Flynn, globalEDGE Team Leader & Student Research Assistant

globalEDGE

I have worked at the MSU-CIBER as a part of the globalEDGE team throughout all four years of my collegiate career, and I cannot imagine a better place to have grown as a professional. ... I am graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Professional Writing. Much of the work I have done at globalEDGE—resource editing, social media management, blog writing, and modules creation - has proven to be invaluable experiences in my field. I have discussed globalEDGE projects during various interviews, and I have no doubt those anecdotes helped me get hired for the other internships and jobs I held throughout the past few years.

Perhaps most importantly, my time at globalEDGE gave me a comprehensive look at the world we live in. The extensive research I did for the modules, blogs, and resources helped me gain more knowledge on how various sectors of international business work and how the world is connected. I now have a broad understanding of the current events that shape our entire globe. I am passionate about the work I have done at MSU-CIBER because I truly believe globalEDGE serves as a vital educational resource in understanding international affairs.

Tish Pahwa, Student Research Assistant

Faculty Development Program for Michigan Community Colleges: International Business and Educational Partnerships in Singapore and Indonesia

The program was well planned, very thorough with respects to the type of institutions visited, and provided tremendous knowledge on the business and educational environments in East Asia.   You do not have a true perspective of another culture until you experience it first hand.  I have studied culture throughout my graduate program at CMU and what I learned actually being on the ground in Indonesia and Singapore provided so much more than I could have ever imagined.  I feel I have the experience and knowledge from being in these countries to share with others and educate on Islam, the Muslim religion, and how cultural differences affect our perception of others.  Truly a life changing experience, and I hope others are able to participate in the future.

Amy Fisher, Business Consultant, Small Business Development Center at Mid Michigan Community College

International Business Center

Working at the CIBER Office at Michigan State University has proved to be an invaluable experience for me. Upon entering my first internship in my junior year of college, I already felt prepared to step into a corporate environment after working in the office for three full years. Working at CIBER has taught me how to work with a team with regards to long-term projects, how to manage my time between work and classes, and it has also allowed me to form relationships with my peers and supervisors. I believe it has truly given me an advantage when it comes to the interview and job search process, and will continue to prepare me as I take on my first full-time role this summer. Not only has working here allowed me to have success in my career path, but it has also allowed me to utilize my international knowledge in my own work experiences thus far. For my internship with Nissan in 2016, I was able to travel to Mexico with fellow co-workers to speak with suppliers about the current logistics processes used by each supplier. Being a Spanish minor and having worked throughout my years in college in a role that emphasizes international business, this experience greatly benefited me and my knowledge of the world around me. I can say firsthand through interviewing with multiple companies that employers today are currently looking for more employees with international skills than ever before. These skills themselves are becoming more of a requirement than simply an advantage. My experience at CIBER has helped me to land my internship and future full-time job, and I have no doubt that I will use these experiences throughout the rest of my professional life. 

Meagan Flynn, Student Research Assistant

Faculty Development Program for Michigan Community Colleges: International Business and Educational Partnerships in Singapore and Indonesia

"I learned far more than I ever imagined I would! … I have significant content to share [with my classes]."

"This is an amazing program with phenomenal potential for building lasting relationships."

"I plan on following up with our possible new partnerships and will also follow through in helping our students find the necessary funding to help them succeed in these international programs."

"Our goal in traveling was to gain experiences as well as knowledge about the business and educational climate in East Asia as well as creating partnerships with schools in Singapore and Indonesia for future study abroad and exchange programs. Even though this was the primary goal, there were so many additional positive experiences from the trip I had not anticipated.  Learning more about the culture of Indonesia as well as becoming more educated about Islam and the Muslim faith as well as seeing things from the perspective of an American in a foreign country shifted my thoughts on International students and the challenges they face in adjusting not only to a new country, but new culture as well."

Program Participants

Faculty Development Program for Michigan Community Colleges: International Business and Educational Partnerships in Singapore and Indonesia

My understanding of Southeast Asia is now greatly expanded.  We have developed, and are expanding, our International and Global Studies program at our institution.  We can now infuse more teaching and learning objectives into our International Business courses, and promote this part of the world as a viable student exchange option.”

Stephen Shubert, Dean of Business, Mott Community College

Faculty Development Program for Michigan Community Colleges: International Business and Educational Partnerships in Singapore and Indonesia

This program has already helped me to add more content to the International Business course I am teaching. Upon return, the program will help me add more international content to many different programs at Montcalm Community College. Lastly, the program will help us build relationships and transfer agreements with universities in Singapore and Indonesia. This program allows faculty in rural areas to visit areas of the world they would never be able to visit, and internationalize curriculum at their rural colleges, which is needed badly. This program also allows rural colleges to build partnerships with other areas of the world to create student and faculty exchanges to help rural U.S. students get a taste of international business, and to help developing nations learn from U.S. community colleges.

Rob Spohr, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Montcalm College

Faculty Development Program for Michigan Community Colleges: International Business and Educational Partnerships in Singapore and Indonesia

All business faculty could benefit from trips of this nature, providing them with insights into best practices of other countries and allowing them to develop professional relationships across national boundaries. This exchange of knowledge will provide improved professional opportunities for students and a richer understanding of our world.

Ron Betzig, Professor, Jackson College

International Business and Business Language Institute for Community College Faculty

“This is probably the best conference I have attended professionally in my 12 years of teaching college language courses…In addition to having an arsenal of concrete and approachable actions I can take to modify curriculum and empower students…I am also going to begin conversations with my cc colleagues around the state on what it means for our traditional language courses and instruction methods.”

“All that was shared was interesting and added to my understanding of language capacity of an employee from the perspective of professionals in the industry.”

“Thank you for the depth of content, applicability of practices, hospitality and inclusiveness. Can't wait for next one.”

Program Participants

Michigan Export Growth Program

Working at MEGP for the past 4 years has helped me develop my analytical, professional writing, and communication skills by giving me opportunities to work with industry professionals in addition to my peers. These skills paired with the market research experience helped me secure my internship and full-time job offer in commercial banking."

Shivani Sankar, Student Researcher & Team Lead

Michigan Export Growth Program

I have found that employers love to see awareness about the world that our research gives us, the collaboration that our projects require, and exposure to working in a professional setting.

Austin Wallace Mccall, Student Researcher

Michigan Export Growth Program

MEGP has allowed me to grow as a professional through communication with clients, organizing team abilities/talents as well as develop my understanding for international business.  Being a part of this program for three years has been the best experience to help start my career.

Scott Schwartz, Student Researcher & Team Lead

Michigan Export Growth Program

I began working for MSU-CIBER as a freshman at Michigan State University. Growing up in a small town with relatively little diversity, my global mindset and experiences were somewhat nonexistent before stepping foot onto MSU’s campus. However, as a member of the research team for Michigan Export Growth Program (MEGP) within MSU-CIBER, I quickly developed a passion for broadening my knowledge base with regards to international matters. Without my position at MEGP, my four-year experience at Michigan State would not have been as rewarding.

Over the past four years, I have worked on numerous research projects designed to assist small- and medium-sized businesses in Michigan in furthering their international business goals. Not only have I gained valuable knowledge about the business landscape and exporting processes regarding many foreign countries, but I have also sharpened my written and oral communication skills. Additionally, I have gained insight into the entrepreneurial mindset of small business owners throughout the state.

While I have thoroughly enjoyed working for MEGP as an undergraduate, this position has also been detrimental in contributing to my academic and career goals. For example, because this position helped foster my passion for international experiences, I was motivated to participate in four study abroad programs while at MSU. Additionally, my work experiences at MSU-CIBER were the primary reason I was able to obtain an internship with Altria Group Distribution Company during my junior year. Furthermore, the skillsets I developed through MEGP also contributed to my success throughout the internship, which in turn led to a full-time job offer. Finally, as someone with an entrepreneurial mindset, working with the small businesses served by MEGP allowed me to have firsthand experiences with individuals whom I aspire to be like.

In conclusion, my time spent with MSU-CIBER and the Michigan Export Growth Program has been rewarding both academically and professionally, as well as personally. I am honored to have had this amazing experience and thankful that I have broadened my global mindset as a result of it.

Tessa Opalka, Student Research Assistant

globalEDGE

One of the most valuable and enjoyable experiences of my life thus far has been working at MSU-CIBER, more specifically globalEDGE, for the past four years. As a top website for international business my work with globalEDGE has allowed for me to gain experiences and knowledge about various facets of the international business world that would have never been possible without this opportunity.

Throughout my time at MSU-CIBER I have had the pleasure of participating in a variety of different projects, each requiring a different skill set. My time at MSU-CIBER has helped me hone in on my passion for designing, creating, critical thinking, and learning. 

In a few days I will be graduating from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, as well as a second Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish. The two degrees that I have earned over my past four years at Michigan State University will no doubt serve as an extremely valuable resource for my future employment and endeavors, but what will really set me apart from the crowd are the incredibly useful skills and international business insights that I have gained through my time at MSU-CIBER.

Working at MSU-CIBER has afforded me the privilege of working in a very diverse environment, which has in turn inspired me to travel to Spain next year to be a North American Language and Culture Assistant. I am incredibly grateful for the past four years that I have had the honor of being employed at MSU-CIBER. The experiences and knowledge I have gained have been truly beneficial to not only myself as a professional and academic, but also as an individual.

Marta Grabowski, Student Research Assistant

globalEDGE

During my junior year at Michigan State University I had to opportunity to start working at the CIBER office on the globalEDGE team. Since then I have spent three years working on the globalEDGE team and have become a better rounded person because of this experience. Before I started this journey I never thought of things on a global perspective, I would only think about how things would affect the United States and Michigan specifically. Working at the CIBER office and on globalEDGE has taught me the importance of being aware of what is happening internationally and being able to recognize its effects globally.

After I graduate with my Master's of Science in Accounting I will be starting with Ernst & Young in tax in the Grand Rapids, MI office. Now that I see the value in looking at business from an international perspective I have realized that I want to direct my career towards international tax consulting. I have also already expressed my interest to Ernst & Young in doing one of their international rotation programs in a different country. I now know that to be the best business person I can calls for international experience and international knowledge.

I am so thankful for the opportunity to have worked at MSU's CIBER and specifically on the globalEDGE team. This experience has guided me down the right path to set myself apart from others in the business world. With my now broader perspectives and increased international business knowledge I feel more than prepared to transition from college into the ever growing international business world.

Taylor Hill, globalEDGE Team Leader & Student Assistant

IBI on the Road - Polk State College

I am writing to thank you for the training seminar you arranged from MSU, International Business Institute for Faculty. This was beyond a doubt the premier event in my many years as an educator. I would like to especially thank you for Dr. Hult and Dr. Singer as our instructors for this event, they were excellent in all regards. I appreciate the time they took to prepare and present this important material.

Frank Clements, Associate Professor, State College of Florida

globalEDGE

We use globalEDGE heavily in our international marketing classes. We also let our students know that, unlike many of our databases, globalEDGE will continue to be available to them after graduation. Your database is very well regarded and appreciated. Thank you for all the good work you do.

Kathryn K. Silberger, Librarian, Marist College

IBI on the Road - Kapiolani Community College

I have submitted a Course Outline here at Kauai Community College for a Survey of International Business course. This was based on the useful information that you provided to my colleagues and I at your presentation last July.

Dirk Soma, Professor, Kauai Community College

IBI on the Road - Davidson Community College

"The content of the presentations and the materials did provide everything I needed to know to internationalize and develop business courses/programs."

"Our department will start teaching international economics in FA2017 and the materials/resources will be very helpful in that endeavor."

"Though I am not in a business program, it gave me ideas about how to help instructors add high quality global content to their courses."

"I learned more than I hoped."

"This has given us a very good foundation upon which to base our discussions about how we would like to move forward."

"Thank you for your insights and energy. It was a great conference for both faculty and administrators."

Workshop Participants

11th Biennial International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Michigan State CIBER for the wonderful 2015 workshop on International Business Institute for Community College Faculty.  The staff, presenters, hotel staff, and everyone involved was so gracious and willing to assist with anything needed.  This was one of the most informative and useful workshops I have ever attended in my 20 plus years of community college teaching.  I truly appreciate everything.

Clovis Perry, Bluegrass Community & Technical College

11th Biennial International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

I found the Institute priceless coupled with the networking with community college peers.

The presentations and materials provided were great. I will use many of the resources to internationalize my general business courses, especially the globalEDGE website.

I could have listened to all of them for longer periods of time – so much good information to absorb!

Wished it didn’t have to end – learned so much from collaboration with participants!

The program is outstanding in every sense. It is an honor to be in this program.

IBI Program Participants

globalEDGE

When I was a freshman at Michigan State University, I had no clue what to expect when I walked into the CIBER office for the first time. At CIBER, I was assigned to work on globalEDGE, an international business website that provides information across many global dimensions such as economies, emerging markets, industries, and globalization. Over my five years at globalEDGE, I obtained a vast amount of international business knowledge. However, perhaps the most important thing I experienced was a passion for international opportunities and global understanding.

After graduating from Michigan State with my Masters of Science in Accounting, I will be starting full-time work with Ernst & Young in their Detroit office as an auditor. My time at globalEDGE inspired me to pursue international opportunities in order to better understand the globalized economy of our modern age. Due to the international passion I obtained working in the CIBER office, I plan to pursue rotational programs at Ernst & Young that allow me to work abroad for one to two years. Overall, my long-term career plan is to gather international experience in order to garner a better understanding of our interconnected, global economy.

My work at CIBER has also exposed me to great friendships and global understanding. While working at the office, I was able to meet fellow students who have traveled around the world for study abroad and work experience. This has inspired me to achieve a higher sense of global awareness and international business education over my years at the CIBER. As I leave CIBER in a few months, I can look back at my experience in complete gratitude because my CIBER experience has allowed me to fully grasp the importance of international education.

Evan Pennisi, globalEDGE Team Leader & Student Assistant

globalEDGE

The Riddle of the Exporter™ teaches exporting is from an entrepreneurial point of view. Entrepreneurs want to be able to access relevant information easily and quickly.  At GlobalEDGE.msu.edu there is so much information; it is amazing!  For the beginning exporter, it is just a gem.

Elyse Eriksson, Creator/Author of The Riddle of the Exporter Training and Workbook

10th Biennial International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

This has been the best institute/conference I have attended in all of my years of teaching!

Keep up the good work!

I took away a lot of information to increase my knowledge!

Outstanding professional development experience.

I would love to come back in two years when you hold it again.

Very informative and helpful. Networking helped connect with others for more ideas. Great resources. Great food!

Solid quality content and amazing professionals.

Thank you so very much for your work preparing for and during the recent CIBER Institute. The information and the comraderie were superb!

IBI Program Participants

10th Biennial International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

Thanks again for a well planned and executed conference. It was content-rich and I am able to aggregate what I need to move forward a solid IB program in my department.

Thierry Brusselle, Chaffey College

globalEDGE

The resources that you have made available are invaluable, and I and my colleagues truly appreciate the work you have done to provide those resources.

Terry Beckman, Assistant Professor of Marketing, Athabasca University

globalEDGE

globalEDGE is an excellent source of valuable information for anybody interested in international business.

Mario E. Davila Escobar, Professor, Interamerican University of Puerto Rico

9th Biennial International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

I took a lot of notes. I have material from every speaker that I can use in my classes.

This Institute has given me not only specific knowledge and info on international business but also the enthusiasm to bring it to life in our college.

Overall, the institute provided a wealth of information that can be put to practical use

The diversity of the participants made for great conversations and networking.

Thank you all for a wonderful, exciting experience!

I will strongly recommend that my colleagues attend.

IBI Program Participants

9th Biennial International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

I just wanted to take a second to thank you for the wonderful opportunity that you provided last week. It certainly was a packed few days…and I felt very privileged to be a part of the entire process. In addition to making a host of new friends, I was more than happy with the amount of useful and applicable knowledge that I obtained through the many presentations and discussions. I am always humbled when I walk away from good events with the realization that there are so many dedicated and knowledgeable people who are doing the right things for the right reasons.

Myke McMullen, Community College Professor

Study Abroad Scholarships

I am honored to be a recipient of the Eli Broad College of Business Study Abroad Scholarship. Your generous support is helping me to fulfill a dream of learning different cultures through study abroad. I believe I will gain a lot of valuable knowledge and experiences through my study abroad trip to France and Spain. My future plans include becoming an international marketing expert. ... Thanks to generous organizations such as yours, this goal is now within my reach.

Mengdi Wang, Undergraduate Student

Study Abroad Scholarships

Thank you so much for your generous donation towards study abroad scholarships. I am on the plane right now anxiously awaiting my arrival. This is a dream come true and I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your help in making it possible.

Brittany Diamantoni, Undergraduate Student

globalEDGE

globalEDGE provides in depth information and data for research and teaching International Business courses. The portal is must for students, faculty and practitioners. Diagnostic modules are learning tools for all users. globalEDGE has rightly become a premier resource for International Business information.

Bindu Vyas, Associate Professor International Business/Management

Study Abroad Scholarships

I have dreamed of studying abroad ever since I was young and now that I have been named as one of the recipients in the Michigan State University International Business Center Scholarship program, my dream is becoming a reality.
Morgan Feenie, Undergraduate Student

Business Language Programs

MSU-CIBER has been incredibly supportive as our foreign language program continues to diversify its offerings with courses like French for Business. A grant from CIBER allowed me to get training on how to develop and deliver such courses from professors who literally wrote the book(s) on professional track courses. The 2012 International Language Institute (currently in development) will allow me to give back to CIBER by sharing what I have learned with other community college instructors from around the country.
Keith T. Phillips, Professor of French and Spanish, Lansing Community College

International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

The International Center is doing path breaking work with its annual summer institutes for community college business faculty. By helping community college students nationwide learn how to do business globally, the Center is contributing to President Obama's National Export Initiative by helping create critically needed jobs in the short-term and rebalancing the national economy in longer-term.

globalEDGE
Doug Barry, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce

CIBER Short-Term Study Abroad Conference

I just wanted to thank you for the CIBER STSA Conference this year. I really enjoyed it and most importantly learned so much about CIBER and other areas of Short Term Study Abroad within an Academic framework.
Joey Klockare, University Relationship Manager, EF College Study Tours

CIBER Short-Term Study Abroad Conference

Just a short note to say "Bravo" re the recent STSA Conference in KC. I thought it was a very strong program with many excellent presentations. I appreciated the opportunity to attend, and look forward to future programs.
George Hiller, Director of International and Internship Programs, Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center

globalEDGE

Michigan State University's globalEDGE web site is hands down the best source of information about the countries, industries, and technologies with the most promising growth potential for U.S. companies doing business overseas.

Noel Nevshehir, Director of International Business Services, Automation Alley

International Business Specialization Scholarships

Thank you for supporting students interested in International Business at the Broad School. I was excited to hear that I had been chosen to receive the International Business Specialization scholarship this year. This scholarship will be very helpful to me in continuing my education and International Business pursuits.
William Duggan, Undergraduate Student

globalEDGE

Having been in the trade realm for years I have come to appreciate globalEDGE. Thank you for maintaining such a great site.

Roberta A. Brooke, Director, MBA Program, Eastern Washington University

8th Biennial International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

I will be meeting with my faculty next week as we get ready to start the fall semester. I will be showing them the resources that we talked about during the week and asking each of them to incorporate international concepts into their classes. I will be asking them to share with me what they have done and how easy it was so that we can share them across the division.
Diane Hargens, Business Division Chair, Western Iowa Tech Community College

8th Biennial International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

I am in awe at MSU's commitment in promoting international business within community colleges. A lot of thought and work went into the presentations, and workshops at the IB Institute making it a great experience for us who were attending. I would definitely highly recommend the IB Institute to my colleagues.
Patrick Liem, Arbutus College

World Languages Day

When we left Eppley, I was so enthused after the day we'd had. I was talking to the students in my vehicle about the sessions they'd attended and what were their favorites. I just think MSU put on something really special and I was excited to have been a part of it.
Parent Attendee

International Internship Directory

This is a truly valuable resource, and we are all grateful to you for making it available to the field.
Richard Mitten, Director of Study Abroad, Baruch College

globalEDGE

globalEDGE is one of the easiest sources to use. I love that they include the source with each section...to underscore the importance of the primary source. Very important. We use this page with intercultural communication classes, international business, economics and finance...
Linda Bartnik, Murray State University Libraries

ADVANCED International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

Thanks again for developing the AIBI seminar! I firmly believe that if you evolve it into a "blue print seminar" to build and maintain community college IB programs, you will be sold out every time. I know I sound like a broken record, however, you have the only research that can become the "change agent" to get community colleges in the U.S. and other countries to develop and maintain an IB program. You guys could go on the road and become quite notable!
Peter Shaw, Professor of Business & Economics, Tidewater Community College

Faculty Development Grants

Due to the generosity of the grant program at MSU-CIBER I was able to attend the Third International Symposium on Agroterrorism in Kansas City, MO. The conference was presented by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Heart of American Joint Terrorism Task force with support from ASIS International. I gained valuable information that has already been useful in my position at MSU and will be of benefit to our students.
Kristie Denbrock, Consortium Coordinator, National Food Safety/Toxicology Center

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Leader Speaks at MSU-CIBER Event

The Broad School's Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER) recently hosted the president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Thomas J. Donohue, at the Global Business Club of Mid-Michigan. His topic: "Trade and Transportation: Michigan's Road to Prosperity."
Press Release, Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University

globalEDGE

globalEDGE provides a wealth of up-to-date information, training, and resources in a well-organized format for the benefit of the international business community at large including new and seasoned companies involved in foreign trade, and American corporations/organizations operating abroad. It is especially useful to American professionals abroad in the corporate and non-profit sectors.

Leila Heron, American Citizens Abroad (ACA) Country Contact, Republic of Panama and Venezuela

7th Biennial International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

"This was my 4th visit with the IBI. And while all have been great, this one was without a doubt the best, both in logistics and content. Each speaker was, in my opinion, top of the line. Kudos to the IBI team for making this institute better than ever!"
Mac McGuire, Alpena Community College

7th Biennial International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

The Institute offered me the time away, to both receive and digest the information. During those short five days, I was able to draft a plan for growth in the IB program at CPCC, recruit potential on line instructors, and generate a long list of to dos; all which I'm sure will benefit our students.
Nadine Russell, Program Chair, International Business, Central Piedmont Community College

7th Biennial International Business Institute for Community College Faculty

As a result of this conference, I will be well prepared to develop the international component for my entrepreneur program, but I also see a great opportunity for ICC to incorporate international business (and entrepreneurship) into our business degree and transfer programs to make us unique among most of the state's community colleges.
Jim Correll, Facilitator/Mentor, Successful Entrepreneur Program, Independence Community College

globalEDGE

globalEDGE provides us with rich and innovative knowledge on international markets as we target worldwide customers with leading-quality footwear.

Tim O'Donovan, Chairman, Wolverine World Wide

globalEDGE

globalEDGE is a highly accessible and first-rate resource that helps keep our membership informed about relevant global business issues facing Michigan's manufacturers.

John MacIlroy, CEO & President, Michigan Manufacturers Association

globalEDGE

globalEDGE is the nec plus ultra of international business portals: an essential tool for students, executives and researchers. It is a magnificent source and resource, continuously updated; its diagnostic tools are true interactive learning opportunities for all users. We use it integratively and fully at Georgia Tech.

Dr. John R. McIntyre, Professor of International Management and Executive Director of Georgia Tech CIBER

globalEDGE

I am really impressed with how globalEDGE manages today's information overload to provide practical international business information.

Sten Sjoberg, COO, Demmer Corporation

globalEDGE

globalEDGE is a very valuable partner for the U.S. Commercial Service in our mission to assist U.S. companies to be competitive in global markets.

Doug Barry, Director of Marketing & Communications, U.S. Commercial Service

globalEDGE

globalEDGE provides a wealth of information on corporations, industries, and countries that assist us as we conduct research for our international customer satisfaction indices.

Claes Fornell, Chairman, CFI Group Worldwide

World Languages Day

The following comments were submitted by Michigan school teachers who attended the World Languages Day event:

"[My favorite part was] watching the students enjoy themselves while learning about new languages and cultures" (Vicki from Clarkston); "[My favorite part was] watching my students survive! Many tried a new language. Most have never been to a university campus. It's great to see them expand their experiences" (Kristine from Fife Lake); "The whole educational experience is phenomenal!" (Jeana from Detroit); "[My favorite part was] the excitement my students had when they told me what they learned. They were obviously excited and inspired!" (Amy from Kenowa Hills)

globalEDGE

"I have used the site for my graduate class in international marketing for 3 years. I use the site to provide my students with the background information they need to succeed in my class. The site provides them with information in a user friendly environment that is both efficient and flexible. I also for the past two years have used the site in support of my undergraduate class. I have these students do the modules on the individual countries; my undergrads find the modules fascinating."

Barbara Wooldridge, Associate Professor of Marketing, The University of Tampa

CIBER

I would like to thank you for everything you do to promote international business education. My colleagues and I learned a lot last academic year and hope to use that knowledge to serve our students and the business community. My college's International Resource Center to which you donated some books now has over 300 volumes in International Business and other disciplines. Several boxes just recently arrived from Michigan State University CIBER. With all your 110% support, I am sure the Talladega College's program is "in good hands." Many thanks.
Michael Taku from Alabama

Globalizing Business Schools: An HBCU-CIBER Partnership Program Participant

"The Faculty Study Tour in South Africa and Botswana was a "trip of a lifetime." Our curriculum will be greatly enhanced by the experiences provided by the trip itinerary. All concerned at MSU-CIBER who had a role in the planning and execution of the trip are to be congratulated!"
Leo T. Upchurch, Tuskegee University

CIBER

"All of you are doing an outstanding job with the CIBER at MSU. Unarguably, MSU's CIBER is the best in the nation- a view that I emphatically express. Kudos for globalEDGE which is now the premiere website for information related to International Business."
Zahir A. Quraeshi, Professor of Marketing and International Business, Western Michigan University

MSU-CIBER Grant Recipient

"I am writing to thank you and the Michigan State University CIBER for the grant that you provided for me to attend the Sixth Annual Spanish Language Faculty Development Seminar in Spain from June 26 to July 1. It was a very beneficial experience for me and one that will be significant for the Business Spanish course that I will teach this fall.

I am prepared to bring to our students the best in their course of study. I thank you very much for this wonderful opportunity provided by grants from CIBER at Michigan State University, at Florida International University and from Morehouse College.

I appreciate the support from the Michigan State University CIBER towards the seminar by the FIU CIBER and the relationship that you have established with Dr. Glenwood Ross here at Morehouse College. The collaboration between the departments of Modern Foreign Languages, Dr. Joseph Agee, Chair, and Economics and Business Administration strengthens our curriculum."
Maria del Rosario Pujals Vickery, Instructor of Spanish, Morehouse College

CIBER

"MSU-CIBER represents one of the true success stories of the Title VI program on global competitiveness, administered by the U.S. Department of Education, that we established in 1990. MSU-CIBER is instrumental in helping Michigan and American firms be competitive in the global marketplace"
Donald W. Riegle, Jr., Former U.S. Senator, Michigan

CIBER

"The MSU-CIBER represents a great partnership between the nation's pioneer land-grant university and the U.S. Government to offer first-rate international business education and research"
Peter McPherson, President, Michigan State University (1993 - 2004)