Global Learning Continues

Despite the challenges the pandemic has brought to global learning and international experiences, the Carlson School, through the Carlson Global Institute (CGI), is still finding ways to connect students around the world.

Since spring 2020, the Carlson School has not offered students a traditional study abroad experience. Instead, CGI used its longstanding partnerships with programs around the world to bring a diversity of guest speakers into students’ virtual classrooms. This includes corporate leaders across the globe, local nonprofits in Ghana, the Icelandic Honorary Consul, the Candian Consul General, and Cargill sustainability experts in the United Kingdom.

“These types of guest speakers could only happen because of the strong partnership we’ve built around the world,” says Anne D’Angelo, assistant dean for global initiatives. “During this unprecedented time, it really feels like relationships are what is keeping the globe turning.”

The student organization GLOBE, which partners Carlson School students with international student “buddies” while they’re in the United States, has continued its engagement as well. The group has put together a variety of virtual events, including a virtual escape room, trivia games, dinner-making parties, and other activities.

Many of the flagship internationally related projects are still continuing virtually, such as the Global Business Practicum.

“Though it’s not the same as a traditional international experience, we’re so proud that our partnerships around the world have continued,” D’Angelo says. “As a key component to a Carlson School education, we’re thrilled to be able to bring the globe to our students over the past year.”