Experiential / Reality-based Learning / April 8, 2015

Smith Freshmen Discuss Global Mindset at YPI

Smith Freshmen Discuss Global Mindset at YPI

On Monday, April 6, 2015, the freshman class of the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business gathered at the Riggs Alumni Center to discuss the importance of having a global mindset and modern diversity in the workplace during the Young Professionals Institute (YPI). Prior to YPI, the students were given a brief case study centering on “A Global Acquisition Gone Sour in South Africa” (Mansour and Walker, 2013).

The students entered the Riggs Ballroom with great energy and were divided into small groups to discuss the case. Associate Dean Victor Mullins kicked off the discussion with a working definition of global mindset: influencing people who are different from you. Mullins discussed the importance of “having a passion for diversity, a desire to interact with different people and a thirst for knowledge on what’s happening outside of the United States.”

Mullins was assisted in setting the stage by Toks Soyombo, senior specialist of global client and investment reporting at T. Rowe Price, who discussed his employer’s brand and the importance of adding value to clients. Anthony Calderazzi, partner and strategic growth markets leader at EY, discussed why his employer is now viewed as a global consulting firm.

An interactive and engaging discussion was facilitated by Marcelo Bartholo, principal of  advisory services at EY and Serim Kumralbas, senior manager of assurance services at EY.  Also participating in the discussion were Kristen Merrill and Jordan Shapiro, representing T.Rowe Price, and Ally Yawman, a campus recruiter for EY.

While the Smith freshmen shared valuable insight on the South Africa business case, the highlight of the evening’s discussion centered on students sharing their perspective on how their perceptions have changed since they have arrived at the university.

From studying abroad in Dubai and South Africa to joining unique clubs and organizations, students were encouraged to meet and develop solid relationships with people who are different from them. Students were encouraged to work with the school’s Office of Career Services, their peers, corporate partners and Smith alumni to learn more about corporate cultures as well.

The students walked away from YPI with a better understanding on modern diversity and global mindset.

We extend a special thanks to Kristin LaRiviere (Smith Undergraduate Program) and our corporate partners from EY and T. Rowe Price for assisting in the continued development of the Smith community, Mullins says.

For more about the Smith Undergraduate Program, visit www.rhsmith.umd.edu/undergrad

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About the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business

The Robert H. Smith School of Business is an internationally recognized leader in management education and research. One of 12 colleges and schools at the University of Maryland, College Park, the Smith School offers undergraduate, full-time and flex MBA, executive MBA, online MBA, business master’s, PhD and executive education programs, as well as outreach services to the corporate community. The school offers its degree, custom and certification programs in learning locations in North America and Asia.

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