Monday, December 13, 2010

Meet Students from Heidelberg and Learn about Summer 2011 in Heidelberg

If you'd like to learn more about the Heidelberg Program from students who go to school there, please contact me.  Three students from Heidelberg are currently studying at the Mihaylo College and will be available in an informal setting to talk to you on Friday December 17 at 6PM.  Email kharich@fullerton.edu for the details.

We hope to hear from you!

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

China in Summer 2011

Applications are being accepted for the 2011 China Program.  Don't miss out on an outstanding opportunity to study, travel, and learn in some of China's largest cities. 

Please contact Professor Xiao at bxiao@fullerton.edu to sign up.

We hope to hear from you!

Friday, November 12, 2010

Exchange Students from SRH Heidelberg University

We have three students on our campus who are exchange students from SRH Heidelberg, our partner university in Heidelberg, Germany.  Those of you who signed up for the Heidelberg Program in summer 2011 should meet them!  They can tell it all... about the summer program, the university, the campus... you name it.  Here is their contact info:

felix.kirschstein@csu.fullerton.edu; Hendrik.Dullinger@fh-heidelberg.de; Fatih.Isik@fh-heidelberg.de

We are trying to set up a meeting of all former Heidelberg students, students who signed up for 2011, and Felix, Fatih and Hendrik, in December.  Scroll down for a picture of the three gentlemen, and please stay tuned!

Got Passport?

If you have been accepted into the BESTor HEIDELBERG Programs and don't have a passport yet, it's time to get one!  Click here and find out how to do it: http://www.usps.com/passport/.

Please keep checking back in.  We will post updates and info on an ongoing basis.

Contact Granitz or Harich for any questions or concerns: ngranitz@fullerton.edu and kharich@fullerton.edu.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Heidelberg Program now Filled

The Heidelberg Program has now been filled.  We have started a waiting list.  If you're still interested, please contact me at kharich@fullerton.edu and I will make sure to secure your spot on the waiting list. 

Congrats to all students who have signed up to study in beautiful Heidelberg during summer 2011!

Monday, November 1, 2010

How to Get the Most out of this Blog

Start with the oldest posts. You find them on the right side bar, under Blog Archive. Click on September and October and read from the bottom up.  The most current postings are under the current month (November).

Check out the  Pages, too.  They can be found on the right side bar as well and you just click on what interests you most.  Lastly, don't forget to scroll all the way down for videos and pictures.

For questions, please contact kharich@fullerton.edu!

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Info on Health Insurance for Summer Study Abroad... and More

In March 2011, the University will purchase health insurance for you.  The insurance will cover you for the three weeks of your summer program.  If you wish to stay on after your program ends (or if you travel to your destination early, before the start of your program), this coverage cannot be extended and you will need to purchase additional insurance to cover the full period of time you will be spending abroad.

Also, you need to obtain the International Student ID Card (ISIC).  It costs $22.  You can purchase it through STA travel or online @ http://www.myisic.com/MyISIC/.

It is a little early to be purchasing plane tickets right now, but if you wish to do so, you should check out STA Travel or Student Universe.  Both are discount travel agencies which cater specifically to students.

Information provided by Kathryn Morrissey.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Congratulations!

Congratulations to all 2011 BEST students!  We are thrilled that you decided to sign up for summer study abroad with BEST and committed by making your downpayment.  We are confident that you will love traveling and learning and growing in Europe and that you will come back a changed and enriched person. 

Please keep in touch with us through this blog, e-mail, Facebook and /or in person.  Updates, announcements, and information will be posted on a regular basis.  We will let you know of any additional steps that you need to take before you actually "take off."  For now, if you don't have one already, it's time to get a passport!  Check here how to do it: http://www.usps.com/passport/.

Contact Granitz or Harich for any questions or concerns: ngranitz@fullerton.edu and kharich@fullerton.edu.

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Did you know this about China?

China is the world’s most populous country. It is estimated that almost one-fifth of the world’s entire population lives in China.

China is one of the oldest continuous civilizations of the world. In fact, the states and cultures present in China date back to more than six millennia. In addition to this, it also has the world’s longest continuously used written language system.

The most popular and important symbols of China is the Great Wall of China, also regarded as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It was started more than 2,500 years ago and was constructed by various ruling dynasties. It measures over 5,000 km long.

One can see striking contrasts in the lifestyle of Chinese people. Though the city has many high-rise and modern buildings, the countryside has very rustic bamboo houses.

The Chinese calendar was developed thousands of years ago and has the years named after 12 animals of the Zodiac. The Chinese had an advanced system of astronomy as well as mathematics, which laid a strong foundation for their beliefs and traditions, followed to date.

China was the first country to invent gun powder and fireworks and also use gun powder for guns, rockets and other arms. It also produced silk for the first time. The process of producing silk was a well-guarded secret!

China is known for manufacturing ceramic plates and it was a mystery known to the Chinese only, for a long time. 

From: http://lifestyle.iloveindia.com/lounge/facts-about-china-1378.html

Friday, October 1, 2010

Did you know this about Europe?

Most of the countries of Europe use the universal currency called the Euro. The United Kingdom still use their proprietary unit of money, the British pound. The only country in Europe not part of the European Union, which formed in 1957, is Switzerland.

Paris is the largest city in Europe with a population of about 10 million. There is a lot of competition with big cities like London, Istanbul and Moscow.

One fun fact about Europe that is usually unknown is that no deserts inhabit the continent of Europe.

Three countries in Europe start with the letter "I": Ireland, Italy and Iceland.

The Alps mountain system runs through Austria, Italy, Liechtenstein, Germany, France and Slovenia. The word "Alps" simply means "mountains." The Alps are usually separated into the Western and Eastern Alps.

The Netherlands and Holland are the same. About one-fourth of the Netherlands is underneath the sea level. Many of the Dutch people speak one foreign language; some speak two.

Besides Germany, Austria also has German as their official language. The only country in Europe that does not have an official language named after the country is Yugoslavia. Their official language is Serbo-Croatian.

Germany is the country that is surrounded by the most countries (nine total). The countries are Switzerland, Poland, Netherlands, Luxembourg, France, Denmark, Czech Republic, Belgium, and Austria.

From: http://www.2020site.org/fun-facts/Fun-Facts-About-Europe.html

Monday, September 27, 2010

Benefits of Study Abroad (by Dr. Irene Lange)

The benefits you can expect to gain from joining a study abroad program go far beyond what you learn in the classroom.  Study abroad is a uniquely life-changing experience.  Many students come back from studying abroad more independent and confident.  They are eager and ready to take on any challenges, be they academic, professional or personal.  You gain a much better appreciation of your own and other cultures.  You learn how to creatively solve problems in different cultural contexts. 

A study abroad experience on your resume will distinguish you from your peers in today’s extremely competitive job market.  You will develop qualities that employers value such as the willingness and readiness to adapt to new environments, and the ability to look at a project or situation from different perspectives.  Employers will also appreciate that you're able to adapt to different corporate cultures.

Do look into our Summer Study Abroad programs!

--Dr. Irene Lange
Chair, Marketing Department
Coordinator, BA in International Business

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Do you ever leave your house? (By Dr. Neil Granitz)

I was recently in India for a few weeks and one of my tour guides told me that his mother only leaves the house once a year; not uncommon. I was stunned…couldn’t believe it - and yes his mother does watch a lot of TV. Imagine if your whole life took place in your house. Imagine everything and everyone you would be missing….and then I thought about people who have never traveled.

If you have never left the U.S., it is like you have never left your house. There is a whole world of difference out there and one of the best ways to experience it is through study abroad. You will immerse yourself in new culture. You will learn about business in another country. You will gain international experience. You will touch extraordinary structures. You will meet people that see the world differently from you. You will earn credit. You will learn about yourself. You won’t want it to end.

It’s time to get out of your house. Are you ready yet? Check out our programs.

--Dr. Neil Granitz
Marketing Professor
BEST 2011 Director

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

How do I find Granitz, Xiao and Harich IN PERSON?

Granitz is in SGMH 5118

Harich is in SGMH 5109

Xiao is in SGMH 4157B

When do I have to pay for Summer Study Abroad?

For BEST, you need to make a downpayment by December 1 (or sooner) if you'd like to enjoy the early bird discount of $500.  You can sign up after that date but the cost for the program will be higher by $500 after December 1.  The full program payment is due in early March of 2011.  During the Spring 2011 semester, you will need to enroll in CSUF summer school and pay tuition.  At any time, you may purchase your plane ticket.  You will buy insurance through the university as we get closer to your departure.

For HEIDELBERG, you will need to enroll in CSUF summer school during the Spring 2011 semester and pay tuition.  You may purchase your plane ticket any time.  You will buy insurance through the university as you get closer to your departure date.  The program fee of approximately $1,400 is due in late Spring; you will be billed by Heidelberg.

For CHINA, a downpayment of $500 is due at the end of the semester, or by December 15.  The full payment needs to be made during the Spring 2011 semester (date to be determined).  You will need to enroll in CSUF summer school during spring, too, and buy insurance through the university as you get closer to the day of departure to China.  You do not need to purchase a plane ticket as transportation is included in the program fee.

Please contact me for further questions!

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Summer Study Abroad: Why me? Why now?

Here is why you should sign up for one of our Summer Study Abroad programs.  Thanks, Dr. Granitz, for giving us good reasons to study abroad.
  • Just do it!
  • International knowledge and skill are increasingly important for success in today's business world.
  • Get to know faculty and students at our excellent partner universities.
  • Make new friends; expand your network beyond Orange County.
  • Enjoy a small private school experience by traveling and studying with a group of your peers.
  • Earn academic credit.
  • Stand out!  Employers will notice that you did something that was not required.
  • Have fun!
  • Open yourself up to a life-changing experience!

Saturday, September 18, 2010

You haven't heard the details about BEST, CHINA, and HEIDELBERG?

Well, you have come to the right place.  Explore this blog and find out what your College offers in terms of 2011 Summer Study Abroad. 

On the right side bar, under PAGES, you find presentations on all three programs, plus links to our partner universities in Europe.  Video and pics are posted below; just keep scrolling down.  The various postings are an attempt at answering questions that you might have, and providing details on academic credit, dates, scholarships, contact information, and the like. 

Please don't hesitate to contact me, or Professors Granitz and Xiao, with any concerns and/or for clarification.  We look forward to hearing from you!

Friday, September 17, 2010

When do I need to apply for 2011 Summer Study Abroad?

We recommend that you apply before the fall semester is over.  Have your applications submitted by December 15 to secure your spot in any one of our three programs (BEST, CHINA, HEIDELBERG).  Contact me @ kharich@fullerton.edu and I will advise you further on how to apply.

For BEST, the deadline for the early bird discount of $500 is December 1, 2010 and you will need to make your downpayment of $500 by then.  Don't miss this deadline!

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Thank You!

Thank you for visiting this blog for the first time, and thank you also for your return visit.  I am posting new information a couple of times per week... so do keep coming back.  You might like to consider becoming a follower (click on FOLLOW located on the sidebar to you right) so that you may be updated automatically on everything to do with Study Abroad at the Mihaylo College of Business and Economics.

We have met many students during our classroom presentations this week, around 600 of you!  We will continue to visit classes for another couple of weeks.  If we have not met you, please contact us and we will be happy to meet with you one-on-one.  Here's our contact information:

Dr. Katrin R. Harich is @ kharich@fullerton.edu.  Contact her for Heidelberg 2011.
Dr. Neil Granitz is @ ngranitz@fullerton.edu. Contact him for BEST 2011.
Professor Bruce Xiao is @ bxiao@fullerton.edu. Contact him for China 2011.

Let us hear from you!

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Academic credit for Summer Study Abroad

How can you make your summer study abroad count?  Here is how:

BEST, Heidelberg, and China allow you to earn credit for three units in business.  If you are a freshman or sophomore, these units count as your required global awareness course in business.  If you're a junior or a senior, you can elect to have the three credits count as you global awareness requirement OR as an elective in your concentration (Econ, Fin, Mktg, General Mngtm).  International business majors can also count the three units as a business internship.  Freshmen and sophomores in international business can only select the global awareness option.

Heidelberg allows you to earn an additional three units in General Education (for a total of six credits).  The units fulfill Gen Ed requirements III B. 3 and V.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

Would you like to post a comment but don't know how?

Simply click on the posts that are on the blog.  You can find them on the sidebar to your right, under Blog Archive.  A window will pop up and you will see "post a comment."  Click on "post a comment."  It's that easy.  You can "sign" with some ID (google email or other) or anonymously.  Thank you and I look forward to hearing your questions, comments, and experiences.

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Study Abroad for Honors and Graduate Students

If you are an honors student at the Mihaylo College of Business and Economics, please contact Dr. Allen Broyles at sbroyles@fullerton.edu.  He will advise you on Study Abroad opportunities for students in the Honors Program.

If you are a graduate student at the Mihaylo College of Business and Economics, check the College's website for graduate students at the following address: http://business.fullerton.edu/graduateprograms/travelabroad/IBS.htm.

Can I afford Study Abroad?

Study Abroad is an investment in your future.  Our summer programs provide tremendously value.  You could not go to Europe or China on your own for less money, esp. since you're earning academic credit while you're abroad and obtaining access to companies that you could not visit as an individual.

Have you thought about applying for scholarships?  The Office for International Education and Exchange at CSUF (http://www.fullerton.edu/international/) provides scholarship support for Study Abroad.  Please inquire with Ms. Kathryn Morrissey for details.  She can be reached at kmorrissey@fullerton.edu.

The different departments within the Mihaylo College of Business and Economics and also the College offer scholarships as well.  They might not be specifically for Study Abroad but you should investigate and consider applying.  You might qualify!  Access this site to find out more:  http://www.fullerton.edu/financialaid/scholar/baebody.pdf.  Application deadlines are typically at the end of February; so plan ahead for February 2011.

Read below what students have to say about their experiences.  You will see that our business students gained tremendously from their Study Abroad classes, realized the value of the programs, and felt that the programs were well worth the investment.

Friday, September 10, 2010

Did you know?

Did you know that Study Abroad may lead to better graduation rates and GPAs?  Read on!

http://www.savethis.clickability.com/st/saveThisApp?clickMap=link&webPadID=K739282452

Mark your calendars for Study Abroad during summer 2011

The following dates have been set for the College's Summer Study Abroad Programs:

BEST: May 28 to June 17, 2011
Heidelberg: Two sessions, May 22 to June 11 & June 19 to July 9, 2011 (pick one!)
China: May 22 to Juny 11, 2011

Please check in regularly as dates are subject to changes (slight changes only).

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Study Abroad: Where to begin?

Where to Begin?

The first decision you must make after concluding that you want an international study experience is whether you want to participate in:
  • one of the shorter programs offered by the Mihaylo College of Business and Economics, OR
  • one of the extended programs (one semester or longer) offered by CSUF, or the CSU System, OR
  • a program offered by another institution.
The shorter summer programs are discussed and described in this blog.  If you decide to participate in an international program offered by CSUF or the CSU System, contact Katrin R. Harich in SGMH 5109, kharich@fullerton.edu or Kathryn Morrissey in UH 244, kmorrissey@fullerton.edu.

Got Questions?

What is the value of international study to me?
  1. Experiencing an international business environment other than the US is important preparation for today's careers.
  2. Gaining first-hand knowledge about another culture will make you more aware of challenges that you might face in the business world in the future.
  3. Comprehending the relationship between the American society and other countries by learning about what's different will enhance your business sensitivity.
  4. Obtaining academic credit towards your major during summer study abroad will expand your horizons while accomplishing your academic goals (you do not lose time!).
  5. Observing and participating in a new culture will help you gain cultural understanding and personal independence.
  6. Summer study abroad will provide you with experiences, knowledge, fun, stories, and pics that you will remember (and use) for the rest of your life.
Am I eligible?
Each program has different requirements.  Find out by contacting kharich@fullerton.edu.

Can I earn academic credit?
Yes.  For summer programs, contact kharich@fullerton.edu.  For longer term study abroad, contact kmorrissey@fullerton.edu.

Do I need to speak a foreign language?
Not necessarily.  Certainly not when studying abroad during the summer.  Some language ability might be required when you go abroad for a semester or longer.  Find out.  Contact kmorrissey@fullerton.edu.

How much does it cost?
Costs depend on the program you pick.  Contact us with specific questions.

What about a passport and visa?
You will need a passport from the country of which you are a citizen.  Additional visa requirements might apply.  We will assist you.

Do I need insurance?
Yes.  You must purchase international travel insurance through the university.  We will guide you through the process.  The cost is minor for three week summer programs (around $50).

Monday, September 6, 2010

What CSUF students think about Summer Study Abroad

About the BEST Program
"This trip [BEST] was such a wonderful experience and I'm so glad I participated in such an amazing program. On top of learning about how people do business in other countries I got to meet some amazing people and see many extraordinary places. It's a great program!"
--Cara Anderson

"The thought of waking up and being ready every day at 8:00am was simply a letdown to me before the BEST program began. However, as difficult as it was for me to get up and get ready, I looked forward to each and every day that the program brought. Each day brought something new, something eventful, and something memorable. The program is organized with back to back events in which the mere three weeks in Europe will feel like months. In the beginning the program felt like it was never going to end, and in the end we all wanted it to go on forever. Europe’s culture as well as its business environment is something we experienced in each lecture that we attended. I feel that the BEST program’s greatest asset is its people. The professors are what make the program unique. Their knowledge and guidance allowed for a environment that challenged everyone to learn more about Europe’s business and cultural aspects. In addition to that, the other students that attend the program as well as the people you meet in Europe make this program simply unforgettable. "
--Tony Vu

"The BEST Tour was a trip of a lifetime. It took what once was taught in a classroom and provided first-hand, real life experiences. Lectures from executives of industry leaders showed firsthand the strengths and weaknesses of European industries, and solidified the importance of being a global team player. The BEST Tour leaves you with a whole new perspective on business and life! It leaves you wanting more! Lessons learned on The Best Tour cannot be duplicated in any classroom. The program provides deep insight into strengths and weaknesses of European industry, and how they fit in the global market. The Best Tour shows you a new appreciation of cultural differences and European lifestyle. It provides you with a whole new outlook on life, and is a great asset to your learning experience."
--Mike Rossi

About the HEIDELBERG Program
"- The excursion to Strasbourg was certainly a highlight. We had the opportunity to visit and tour the European Parliament building and meet the director. Touring Strasbourg Castle was really neat. I've never seen or been in a castle before. It was neat to get to see how different the two cultures (Germany and France) are, yet they are so close in geographical location.
- I enjoyed the excursion to the Mercedes Benz factory and the visit to the Mercedes Museum. I was highly impressed by the way they ran their business- very efficient. And the museum was like something out of the future.
- The Italian opera in the park was also a great experience as I have never been to an opera before.
- I really enjoyed the excursion to SAP corporate headquarters. They treated us like kings and queens. There was so much interactive futuristic technology in and around the building. Everyone in the program left wanting to work for the company. I've never seen anything like it.
- Germany in general was a great experience. It is such a beautiful country. So much beautiful architecture and old buildings. I absolutely adored the city of Heidelberg.
- The accommodations in the Guest House on the campus were wonderful. The rooms far exceeded my expectations.
- I also like the public transportation as it was very easy and convenient to get around without a car.
- I really appreciated the way the staff members and professors cared for us and went out of their way to make sure we were okay and enjoying the program.

I would recommend this program to everyone! Everyone should go. I've already been suggesting it to some of my friends on campus. I had the time of my life. I am so glad I decided to go. It was well worth the money."
--Tiffany Speed

About the CHINA Program
"I went on the 2010 China study abroad and I'd do it again in a heartbeat. I learned so much from the experience as it was happening and although I've been home a few months I keep realizing, reflecting and learning from that experience.

China is the frontier of business and this program gave me an eye-opening view of this huge developing nation and a glimpse at the infinite business possibilities as they are being developed and implemented. We were able to compare and contrast different business aspects which in turn helped us understand both nations, and their dealings, better.

On a personal level, getting away from the daily grind that kept us so focused on our own lives was truly welcomed. I got to meet fellow CSUF students I would not have otherwise. I got to chat with other international students taking part in different study abroad programs and I got to know some of the locals. All of these experiences are invaluable to both educational and personal growth. I strongly urge anyone interested in this program to put aside any doubt they have and jump in with both feet, I know they won’t regret it."
--Evelyn Banuelos

Going to China on the study abroad program is one of the best decisions I have ever made. We got to learn and see so much in our three week experience. We absorbed so much culture and history and got to visit three of the largest cities in China: Tianjin, Shanghai and Beijing. My personal favorite was Shanghai but Beijing was spectacular as well because of the famous Great Wall which we got to hike on. In addition to the fun and touristy aspect of this trip we learned about the modern Chinese business world as well as the history of where they came from. It was a remarkable, well planned and life changing experience that I would do again in a heartbeat.
--Lyndsey Grove

View of a CSUF Alumn
I've always advocated for studying abroad - it not only gives you experience in terms of culture and environment but also in terms of business (and marketing).  It opens your eyes to the world and the fact that it is larger than just the USA!
--Jay Manek

Friday, September 3, 2010

Consider Study Abroad!

Hi everyone:

Are you a student approaching graduation?  Are you sure that your resume will differentiate you from your "competition?"  Do you have enough to "show for?"  If in doubt about these questions, do consider Study Abroad.  The Mihaylo College of Business and Economics offers exciting Summer Study Abroad Programs.  They are short in duration (three weeks), conducted in English, and allow you to earn academic credit.  Locations include Europe (four countries), China, and Germany (Heidelberg).  Contact kharich@fullerton.edu for further information and/or visit the Center for International Business at http://business.fullerton.edu/centers/cib/

I look forward to hearing from you.  If you're a student who has participated in Study Abroad, please talk about your experiences here.  You could help make a big change in a fellow student's life!