At the end of the spring 2024 semester, Senior Lecturer William Ordeman ('10) and 14 other Ryan College of Business students embarked on an excursion to the Spanish capital of Madrid. The goals of the trip were to learn about international business opportunities in Spain, gain insight into the unique business communication styles of southern Europe, and explore the historic sites of Spain.

Upon arrival, the Mean Green team was met by professional guides who connected students with business leaders and start-ups throughout the week. Each day, the group participated in at least one cultural excursion (such as a walking tour or visit to an art museum) and one business meeting. Students visited numerous companies from industries ranging from non-profit, to B2B marketing, to financial investment.

Slade Thompson ('25), an economics major, provided some student insight to the trip.  "Madrid was the first time I had ever been outside the United States, and immersing myself in the culture of Spain was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life," he said. "I loved the excitement of discovering a new country and everything it had to offer, but what made the trip truly meaningful was sharing it with fellow RCOB students and experiencing it with Dr. Ordeman, who had lived in Madrid. Having that group of classmates and a professor who knew the city gave me a sense of community in an otherwise completely new place, turning the trip into something I’ll cherish forever."

In the students' visit to Anteriad, CEO Brahim Samhoud spoke about the challenges in leading a marketing firm through the tumultuous years of COVID-19 and how his organization was able to thrive despite the economic recession that followed. Students also presented a strategy challenge to Ana Escurin, CEO of Utopians Nation, which offered a detailed marketing plan of how non-profits can diversify their funding sources and increase financial independence. Throughout the week, these and other business visits gave our students a crash course in international business that will serve them throughout their careers.

"The company visits in Madrid gave me a firsthand look at how management operates in a global context," Thompson said. "Visiting local companies and learning about their strategies, organizational structures, and approaches to leadership helped me understand how cultural, economic, and regulatory differences shape decision-making. As an economics major, I found it particularly interesting to see how Spain’s economic environment contrasted with that of the United States and influenced each company’s business strategy."

It wasn't all work, though. Students visited numerous cultural sites including the Royal Palace of Madrid (the largest in Western Europe), the Prado Museum (home of well-known works by Goya, Bosch, and El Greco), and even one of the final Real Madrid matches of the season. With the help of local guides, the students learned about the history of Spain, ate delicious tapas at local restaurants, and learned how to culturally and physically maneuver through the fourth largest city in Europe.

By the end of their 10-day journey, students were reluctant to return home. Students experienced first-hand what international business looks like in Spain, all while seeing beautiful architectural, tasting authentic cuisine, and experiencing the culture of Spain’s metropolitan capital. 

"I highly recommend that other RCOB students consider a study abroad trip. Traveling with fellow UNT students and faculty makes exploring a new country both exciting and comfortable. The experience left a lasting impact on all of us by shaping how we see the world and ourselves," Thompson said.

Students are able to experience these life-changing opportunities and experiences thanks to the support of donors. Many students on this trip, such as Thompson, were awarded study abroad scholarships through the main Study Abroad office or the Department of Management at the Ryan College of Business. 

"I am incredibly grateful to the donors who made this opportunity possible. Their support allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture, gain firsthand global business experience, and create memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life," Thompson said.