BUYSIDE: Invesment strategies aligned with the United National Sustainability Developmental Goal

San Diego, California

The University of San Diego’s Student International Business Council recently hosted an engaging forum featuring SIBC student teams from USD, Notre Dame, and Benedictine College, all centered around investment strategies aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They brought together alumni, donors, and industry professionals to serve as judges, evaluating each team's approach to values-based investing.

Each college offered a distinct perspective on how to integrate sustainability into financial decision-making. USD’s team, led by junior Emma Alvarez, focused their presentation on the importance of setting clear, actionable targets when aligning investments with the SDGs. They introduced their chosen industry, explained the rationale behind selecting it, and provided insights into its projected growth. Their analysis concluded with thoughtful stock suggestions that reflected both market potential and SDG alignment.

It went great and I really enjoyed getting to meet everyone older than me on this project. I also learned a lot about using Bloomberg for fundamental stock analysis from my finance partner on this project. Presenting was super fun and I got to see how other schools functioned and worked through this project. Although schools like Notre Dame had so much information, USD had the presentation skills and strong delivery.

-Luke Magturo

As an international business major, I think SIBC is one of the most beneficial opportunity at the university. It provides students with real-word experience and practical, applicable knowledge unlike any other organization. The ability to collaborate with peers is an essential skill, and SIBC fosters an environment that allows that to flourish. 

Even though our Buyside team faced a quick turn around, we came together seamlessly, whether that was finishing tasks outside of meetings or gathering at night to do run throughs of our presentation. The collaborative spirit made it all with while. It was uplifting to be surrounded by such driven and supportive individuals. 

In the end, my experience with Buyside taught me more than market trends and sustainable medical device alternatives but it showed that our dedication was making the world a better place.

-Cael Burnett

Being a part of Buyside was such an incredible opportunity for growth, learning, and connecting. Getting to work closely alongside SIBC students from USD, and then connecting with SIBC students from Notre Dame and Benedictine, was such a great experience. I would do it over again in a heart beat!

-Emma Alvarez

I had a lot of fun working on this project and learned many cool things that I would have never thought to research if not for Buyside. Not only did I learn a lot, but I also got to know my teammates better, which was super fun. Overall I had a truly amazing experience and am so grateful to SIBC for this opportunity.

-Emily Aiona

VistaBee

London, United Kingdom

The Student International Business Council (SIBC) team worked on a strategic consulting project for VistaBee, a UK-based real estate media company, to support its expansion into the U.S. and California real estate markets. The project aimed to assess the viability of entering these markets through a comprehensive PESTLE analysis and an overview of the U.S. and California real estate photography industry. The team developed attainable revenue projections, conducted a SWOT analysis, and created detailed homebuyer profiles based on focus group survey data. Additional research included location analysis to determine the most strategic areas for entry, a competitor analysis to benchmark against key industry players, and the development of a targeted contact list. The project concluded with actionable recommendations designed to guide VistaBee’s successful market entry and long-term growth in North America.

I am so incredibly grateful to have served as project lead for vistaBee’s market entry plan into California. This project had so many layers from analyzing the real estate industry of the US, to studying which area of California would be most profitable, to analyzing competitors, to finding firms and agents for the client to contact in California. At first, our team didn’t know where to begin in tackling a project with so many layers. We asked questions, sought guidance from our SIBC mentors, library staff and real estate faculty, and continued to meet with the client throughout the project to gain more clarity. I am so lucky to have worked with such an incredibly dedicated team. We met for late-night work sessions and woke up early for meetings. I hope to surround myself with such passionate and creative people wherever my career takes me.

As someone who is not an international business major, I am so grateful that SIBC provides me the opportunity to dive into new industries, meet and consult for professionals across the globe, and put my leadership skills to the test. I feel lucky to have found SIBC, and I feel as though my skillsets develop more and more with each project.

-Alena Callahan

Getting the opportunity to work on the vistaBee project was an incredible experience that I’m beyond grateful for. Being part of a real-world consulting project, working alongside such a talented and supportive team, was both challenging and rewarding. After almost a year of researching and planning, traveling to London to present our findings felt surreal. Standing in a room with the company’s executives and hearing that our work would make a real impact was incredibly special.

This experience pushed me in so many ways. Navigating a new industry, researching emerging trends, and crafting strategies that had real-world applications reinforced my passion for business on a global scale. I also had an amazing time seeing London, gaining cultural knowledge alongside developing my professional skills. I am so appreciative for this experience and beyond thankful to SIBC for giving me the opportunity to learn in such an innovative environment. This project has given me a taste into my future career and excited me for what is to come, and for that I am endlessly grateful.

-Diba Zarkeshan

I’m incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to travel to London to present a consulting project that my team and I have been working on since September. Together, we crafted a market entry strategy for VistaBee; the project involved an in-depth analysis of the U.S. real estate industry, identifying the most profitable locations in California for real estate photography, analyzing competitors, and conducting focus group interviews to give our best recommendations. We also developed a targeted outreach list of firms and agents to help them initially break into the market.

I am so grateful to my team for their collaboration and support. It was inspiring to see our different strengths come together to produce the best results possible. Not only was it empowering to work with such a great group of women, but it was also so fun to get closer to them while exploring places like the Notting Hill Market and the National Gallery!

This program has brought me invaluable experience in leadership, international consulting, and marketing that I will undoubtedly take with me into my future careers.

-Beth Haymans

Being part of the team that developed and presented the international market entry plan for Vista Bee was a truly unforgettable experience—both professionally and personally. The opportunity to travel with the team to London and present our findings in such a vibrant, global city was the culmination of months of deep research, collaboration, and strategic thinking.

From the outset, this project stood out because of the scope and real-world relevance. Vista Bee's ambition to expand into two of California’s most competitive real estate markets—Southern and Northern California—challenged us to think critically about everything from current industry trends to regional nuances that could affect their entry. Conducting the PESTLE analysis helped us understand the broader forces at play, while the competitor analysis sharpened our perspective on what it takes to stand out in the luxury real estate segment.

One of the most rewarding parts of this experience was seeing how our individual contributions came together to form a cohesive strategy. I was particularly involved in compiling the targeted prospect list, which meant diving deep into the California real estate landscape and identifying the firms and agents whose values and branding aligned with Vista Bee’s high-end visual storytelling.

Presenting in London added a whole new dimension to the project. It wasn’t just about showcasing our findings—it was about representing the team, communicating across cultures, and receiving feedback from professionals with international perspectives. The energy of the city, combined with the seriousness of the work, made it feel like we were participating in something truly impactful.

This project reinforced my interest in strategic market entry planning and highlighted the importance of strong visuals in today’s real estate marketing. More than anything, it taught me the value of adaptability, teamwork, and global thinking—skills I’ll carry with me into every future project. I hope to stay in touch with Raj, to see what they do with the teams insights.

-Gabriela Bryant

Yuccan

Paris, France

Project Yuccan was an incredible opportunity to explore the niche industry of referral marketing while honing my leadership skills. As my time at USD comes to an end, I will deeply miss SIBC and the invaluable experiences it provided. I am especially grateful for the trust SIBC placed in me to lead Project Yuccan—it was a privilege to guide such a talented and driven team.

What began in September as a group of strangers evolved into lifelong friendships by March. Witnessing our hard work culminate in the final presentation was incredibly rewarding, and I attribute our success to the trust and camaraderie we built throughout the year. Prioritizing personal connections and fostering a collaborative environment allowed our team to thrive, ensuring that every member delivered high-quality work with confidence.

Our achievements would not have been possible without the unwavering support and expertise of Dr. Daspro. Her guidance, along with the genuine dedication and care demonstrated by each team member, made this experience truly special. Project Yuccan was more than just a project—it was a testament to the power of trust, teamwork, and shared commitment.

-Matylda Marszaelk

I had an enjoyable and enriching experience working with Yuccan! Through this project, I gained valuable insights into the referral marketing industry while strengthening my research and problem solving skills. We were able to collaborate as a team to successfully complete deliverables, contributing new information to the Yuccan team. I was able to expand my knowledge of global business strategies and diverse cultural perspectives. In France, we were able to engage with the team, visit their office, and learn about what it's like to conduct business in the country. We had so much fun getting to know them and learning about French work culture. We had an amazing time exploring Paris! There was so much to learn about, from the art and history to the food, architecture, and more. We saw the city from the top of the Eiffel Tower, toured Notre-Dame Cathedral, visited other monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe, walked along the Seine, and ate so many croissants and other delicious traditional French foods. I am so grateful for this opportunity and the wonderful experience I’ve had working with SIBC. I can’t wait to work on more projects in the future!

-Abbie Haas

I am truly grateful and very fortunate to SIBC for making this travel experience possible. It was a rewarding project, as our team dedicated a year to Yucan’s requested project objectives, and learning about a new industry for federal marketing was incredibly impactful. Seeing all of our determination and passion for this work was amazing, and having the opportunity to travel to Paris, France, to present to the company executives made it even more meaningful. The executives were incredibly welcoming and appreciative of our hard work. Additionally, touring the country and experiencing the rich history and culture of Paris was unforgettable. SIBC has provided me with real-world experience on an international scale, allowing me to travel to new countries. Since this was my last year with SIBC, the experience was bittersweet.

-Arleth Quintero

Semantiweb

Los Angeles, California

The team, led by Brianna Floyd and Halle Fernandez, worked on a strategic consulting project for SemantiWeb focused on supporting the company’s expansion into the U.S. market research industry. Their objective was to deliver a comprehensive analysis and set of recommendations to help SemantiWeb navigate the competitive landscape and strengthen its positioning. The project included a U.S. industry overview, a detailed SWOT analysis, and a competitor matrix to identify key opportunities and threats. Additionally, the team identified potential social listening acquisition targets aligned with SemantiWeb’s business goals and proposed an enhanced marketing and communications plan. This included event strategy recommendations, social media analysis, and a targeted outreach approach to help the company increase brand visibility and engagement in the U.S. market.

Working with Semantiweb was such an incredible opportunity! Semantiweb focuses on consumer insights within the fashion, food, and cosmetic industries, which perfectly aligns with my interests. Throughout the project, I got to work with team members and the executive board to create an engaging slideshow for the client. We completed a competitive analysis, a market expansion strategy, and a social media audit. This deep dive into the industry was eye-opening, as I learned how various companies differentiate themselves through service offerings, pricing models, and technological innovations.

After weeks of research, our team presented our recommendations and findings to Semantiweb in Los Angeles, California. The client responded positively, mentioning that our presentation was insightful and relevant! Seeing our hard work recognized was truly a rewarding moment.

Overall, this consulting project deepened my understanding of market expansion strategies and the complexities of entering the U.S. market. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to work with the Student International Business Council and Semantiweb, and I look forward to applying these skills to future business endeavors.

-Halle Feranandez

​​Leading the consulting project for Semantiweb was an incredible experience. I gained firsthand insight into the power and potential of social listening, and learning about this rapidly evolving industry challenged me to think critically about data, technology, and human behavior all at once. This project gave me the opportunity to step into a leadership role – not just to deliver a final product, but to guide a team through new and complex territory with curiosity and adaptability.

From scoping the engagement to final delivery, I learned how to balance strategic oversight with hands-on problem-solving and how to lean into the diverse strengths each team member brought to the table. One of the most valuable takeaways for me was the importance of clear communication within the team and with the company. As the project evolved, I focused on keeping the team grounded in our objectives while navigating change. I also learned how to create space for open discussion, manage challenges with confidence, and maintain momentum even when the path forward wasn’t always linear.

I’m grateful to my team and I’d like to give a special shoutout to Rangoli as well as many thanks to the eBoard for your support throughout. I walk away from this experience with a deeper appreciation for how strong collaboration and adaptability can drive progress, even in unfamiliar territory.

-Brianna Floyd

IPE - Navigating the Future: International Political and Economic Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence

Notre Dame, Indiana

IPE is an annual project in which SIBC teams from all three SIBC schools research, prepare and present their findings on a current topic of political economy. The judges are the SIBC donors, SIBC alumni and leading industry professionals. This year, the University of Notre Dame hosted the competition. The prompt given to teams was:

In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence (AI) stands at he forefront of global transformation. As AI continues to evolve and present unprecedented opportunities and challenges that transcend borders, each team will explore the impact of AI on our world by focusing on different political, economic and societal impacts of AI for an assigned firm and/or industry.

Our own team was assigned to the aerospace/defense industry, with the firm Lockheed Martin.

“In the Fall of 2024, I had the opportunity to travel to The University of Notre Dame in Indiana to present on AI in Aerospace Defense with the IPE team. As we flew into Chicago, we had the opportunity to visit the city. Reflecting on my recent trip brings back so many memorable experiences and valuable insights. One of my favorite memories would have to be the practice we held the night before the presentation. After enjoying a team dinner at a nearby restaurant, we gathered in the meeting room of the hotel together in one last practice before the big day. There was so much laughter and joy shared, as I looked around I couldn’t have imagined a better group of people to be able to present with. Not only did this trip allow me to grow professionally, but allowed me to meet some pretty awesome people along the way.

Overall, this trip to Chicago/Notre Dame was a blend of professional achievement and social enrichment. It reinforced the value of teamwork, exposed me to new experiences, and allowed me to network with people from multiple Universities.”

— Rebecca Tilling

“The IPE experience has been an incredible opportunity to dive into and research an industry that was previously unfamiliar to me (in this case Aerospace and Defense). Working alongside individuals from diverse academic backgrounds has not only expanded my network but also allowed me to learn from talented peers who excel in fields beyond my own of Accounting. It’s been a truly enriching experience, broadening my perspective and enhancing my collaborative skills to work apart of this team.”

— Emily Rascher

Also pictured: Maren Bronson and Elena Williams

Joyi-Colorful Zone: Mental Health Resources for University Students

Toronto, Canada

I had the privilege to dive into one of the best trips of my life. We went to Toronto to present our recommendations of Joyi to our kind client, Nagar. She had a great talk with us, showing her perspective of life and how her entrepreneurial efforts reflected on a successful and happy journey across the world. She always showed a deep care for us, and it mimics her purpose with her business - to create a digital vitamin for people to take, and to improve their mental journey. I felt so satisfied by taking part of her vision, and I hope the best for her. Toronto was one of the best cities I have been to: good food, good walkability/public transportation, and great people. The city has so much character and history, and holds a strong music culture, as it is the hometown of two of the biggest artists in the world: Drake and The Weeknd. Our trip took place during the 8 year anniversary of Drake's album Views, which is a tribute to Toronto. It felt like such a fateful event! Also, I was able to visit the House of Balloons, the house where The Weeknd started his career. As I was commuting to the house, I was listening to his first album, and felt like I was going back in time, as I was experiencing how his life was back then. SIBC gave me a lot, and I couldn't be more happy with my experience with my team!

-Pinak Lalitcumar

Essential Kitchen: Fostering Community Partnerships

Queens, New York

I was the Project Lead for the Essential Kitchen Team. At first, I was nervous to be the project lead because it was my first time managing a consulting team. After meeting the team, my nerves stopped and I became more excited than nervous. Our different skill sets and personalities were invaluable to our success. Our team worked through our project setbacks with laughter and creative problem solving. We worked every week on finding new ways to meet our client’s needs and help her business grow. I learned invaluable skills related to leadership, delegation, and project management. Our client, Dianna, CEO of Essential Kitchen is an influential social entrepreneur and community organizer based in the Queens, New York area. We created a presentation with consulting recommendations for her commercial kitchen. Our recommendations stemmed from our market research we conducted over the year. Our suggestions were for the kitchen’s website, social media, and overarching marketing needs. When we presented our recommendations, Dianna was so grateful and excited to implement our ideas. Our team absolutely loved our time in NYC! Three out of the four of us had never visited before, and we were subway pros by the end of the trip. Some memories of the trip include: rowing in the central park boats, visiting the 9/11 Memorial Museum, walking on the Brooklyn bridge, attending a Yankees game, eating pizza/bagels, and visiting Wall Street. Our team grew in our professional and interpersonal skills immensely over the course of the year and made friendships and memories together that will last for years to come. Thank you, SIBC!

-Abbey Casserly

Tekiti Experiencias Mexicanas: Facilitating Fair Trade

Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico

“Participating in the Tekiti project as part of the Student International Business Council was a truly enriching experience that expanded my understanding of global business strategies and cultural exchange. Our team's journey to Guadalajara not only enhanced our analytical and collaborative skills but also allowed us to engage deeply with the local business landscape. Tekiti, with its vibrant local roots and ambitious vision, provided a unique lens through which we could explore the intricacies of international business dynamics. By leveraging what might be seen as regional challenges, we helped Tekiti harness these elements as strengths in their market positioning and outreach strategies. This project was more than just a learning experience; it was an opportunity to make a tangible impact on a business that is poised for international growth. I am immensely proud of the work our team accomplished and am excited to see how Tekiti leverages our insights for their future success.”

-Vasco Almeida

“I had the privilege to lead an amazing team on this year's project with Tekiti. I gained so much valuable knowledge and experience in fair trade, international trade, artisans, and market expansion into the US, which has inspired me to continue my professional career in similar areas. In April, the team and I traveled to Guadalajara, Mexico where we presented our research and findings to the Tekiti team at the beautiful Casa de Artesanias de Guadalajara, which was the perfect environment to present in as it showcased the types of products that Tekiti produces by its local artisans. The whole Tekiti team was very impressed and grateful of our research. Their gratitude and feedback towards our presentation proved our hard work and dedication to the project the past two semesters were absolutely worth it and more! All of us students left inspired and super proud of ourselves. We’re so thankful for Tekiti giving us the opportunity to work with them. Upon finishing our presentation the first day, we got to explore the wonderful city of Guadalajara. We took a trip to Tequila, got to see the beautiful agave fields, and visited a couple distilleries. After Tequila, we went to see the Chivas soccer game. I think this was everyone’s favorite part of the trip. The energy, crowd, and stadium were incredible! I will definitely be back for another Chivas game. On the last day of our trip we went to Tlaquepaque which is a community in Guadalajara full of culture, food, music, and shopping. Our lunch in the town was beautiful, as we were surrounded by amazing architecture, music, and great people. My time working with Tekiti and traveling to Guadalajara was incredibly valuable to me and I’m so grateful for the experiences and memories created!”

-Sophia Guzman

“My experience with SIBC brought me to an artisan market and gallery in the arts district of Guadalajara. We had spent all night traveling, and arrived just in time to prepare and present to Tekiti Experiencias Mexicanas. Our task had been to analyze the market in the United States and see the areas that may offer the greatest opportunity for Tekiti to expand into. Their team had been too busy with the day-to-day aspects of running the business to devote the time they'd want to to their company's expansion and growth. My team and I were able to help fill this gap by determining target markets in the United States that fit with Tekiti's offering of authentic artisanal Mexican goods, as well as specific firms that they may partner with. It meant a lot to be able to provide real value to the Tekiti team and support their growth.”

-Jack Rousso

I had an amazing experience working with Tekiti! Working on this project was a great learning experience that allowed me to improve my current skills as well as develop new ones. I learned so much about the different components that go into researching and executing a project for a business. I had the privilege of working with a group of talented, hard-working individuals who served as role models, helping me get out of my comfort zone and always pushing me to grow. The team had so much fun in Guadalajara! I loved experiencing the culture through different places we visited, the music, and the food. We were able to meet the Tekiti team and learn more about their business process. I am so grateful for this experience working with SIBC and I'm looking forward to what the next few years may bring!

-Abbie Haas

IBC Buyside: AI Business Applications

San Diego, CA

“My experience with the SIBC BuySide Team proved immensely rewarding in both learning and professional growth. Throughout this endeavor, my team and I explored the influence of Artificial Intelligence on healthcare and the financial instruments guiding corporate investment decisions. Our work involved comprehensive research to identify the foremost AI technologies utilized in the healthcare sector. From our analysis, we pitched the decision to invest in Intuitive Surgical, recognizing its role in spearheading transformative innovations in healthcare. Engaging in this project honed my research and presentation skills. Although I am not a finance major, I challenged myself to dive into this financial analysis, enriching my comprehension of AI’s financial implications in healthcare. Moreover, this local experience provided valuable insights into the intricacies of event organization and hospitality for the guests and panelists. I am so grateful for my team and advisors for their continuing support as I step further into my professional journey.”

-Maren Bronson

“This semester, I had the privilege of serving as a member of the BuySide team. Within this dynamic and driven group, we dedicated ourselves to exploring the profound implications of Artificial Intelligence on the healthcare sector. Through diligent research and collaborative effort, we not only uncovered the latest advancements in AI technology but also identified key innovative companies driving change in the healthcare sector. Our findings enabled us to present an informed recommendation to invest in Intuitive Surgical to contribute to the ongoing evolution of AI-driven solutions in healthcare.
This project has honed my research, presentation, and analytical skills, while further deepening my understanding of the economic implications of Artificial Intelligence within the healthcare sector. I extend immense gratitude to Frank Potenziani for his generous endowment to the SIBC as well as to John Fitzgerald and the entire esteemed panel of judges for their unwavering interest and support.”

-Kate Collier

“Serving as a Project Lead for the Buyside Team taught me how to better manage a team and has allowed me to further develop both my technical and interpersonal skills. I learned how to delegate tasks, present to executives in a professional environment, network with industry professionals, and connect with individuals in the same industry for career development guidance. When I began working on projects with SIBC my freshman year, I was exposed to upperclassmen who soon became role models to me. It was because of a positive role model leading one of my past projects that caused me to eventually become a project lead myself. Now, as a soon to be graduating senior, I’ve gained much more clarity on my future career aspirations due to the hands-on nature of the projects and real world experience they provide. I’d recommend this invaluable experience to anyone seeking to expand their knowledge in the international business world as there’s a wide variety of projects with a large spread across different industries.”

-Angelina Kapp

Snoice: Catering to the Community

San Diego, CA

“Working on the Snoice project was not only an awesome opportunity to grow my marketing and analyzing skills but also a great chance to see how small business important to their local community can grow themselves through involvement in their communities. The team and I got to see how a local business with a strong cultural identity could use aspects some may view as weaknesses to their advantage in their branding. We also got to help them find ways and information that helps them realize the possibility of growing their business is very real. I really enjoyed working with a San Diego company, knowing that our hard work would have positive effects for our own community. I am so grateful that this family-owned business would trust us with this project and can't wait to see what they do in the future.”

-Isaac Ayala

“I helped my team complete a catering expansion plan for Snoice’s small business. In preparation for this, I contributed to the market research, SWOT analysis, and competitor analysis. I also had the opportunity to visit the Snoice location in Spring Valley, California for their personalized tasting experience. Their desserts were absolutely delicious, and the customer service was great! Through this project, I gained valuable knowledge about the dessert and catering industry. I look forward to seeing Snoice thrive and delight dessert lovers in San Diego!”

-Halle Fernandez

“Overall, it was amazing experience that led to a lot of personal and professional growth. I really enjoyed getting to learn more about industry trends and Marketing!”

-Conchi Gordillo

Le Cacaotal: The Business of Beans

San Rafael de Escazú, San José, Costa Rica

“I am very grateful for the opportunity to have been a project lead on this project and to learn more about sustainable cacao farming. Throughout the semester, we worked with Le Cacaotal to create a foreign market entry plan for their cacao beans. Then, we traveled to Costa Rica to present to the client and visit their farms. We got to meet Jaqueline and Geiner, who gave us a tour of the farms. They explained the entire growing and harvesting process and allowed us to taste some of their many unique cacao varieties. This hands-on experience was a rare peek into the detailed process of cacao cultivation, which is the first step in creating chocolate. In addition, we experienced the rich Costa Rican culture and saw some amazing sights, like mangrove forests and sloths in the rainforest. This experience offered unique insights into international business, sustainability, and cross-cultural connections—lessons I will carry into my future career.”

-Steffek Rainey

“Pura Vida! Travelling to Costa Rica to present our team's work to Le Cacaotal leadership was a daydream. Throughout this academic year, an expanded team comprised of the travel members and other capable peers has worked on a foreign market expansion plan for the company. The work included regulations, legal and compliance, consumer profiling and market research. As a professional consultant and problem-solver would, team members became experts in the cacao extraction and bean-to-bar chocolate industries, providing suggestions from a fresh perspective to Le Cacaotal.
In Costa Rica, we began by exploring San Jose, the vibrant capital. We then were taken on a tour to one of Le Cacaotal's 'fincas', or farms, where we learned about the firms 40 plus cocoa varieties and the supporting ecosystem its workforce nurtures to protect cacao plants. The next morning we presented to Costa Rica and France-based leadership, to whom we are eternally grateful for teaching us so much about the industry and supporting our work. Did you know that Le Cacaotal's large portfolio of cacao varieties is groundbreaking in the sector, since only a few varieties are currently used for chocolate? We did not,! and we came to see that interesting fact as one of the company's most valuable competitive advantages.
The trip continued after the presentation for all team members, and even longer for me since I decided to extend my stay and remain in Costa Rica as a solo traveler. Alone and with my team peers, I experienced a wealth of local traditions from Semana Santa (Holy Week) to an incredible party at our Tamarindo beach hotel. I explored the rainforest, swam in Costa Rica's beautiful beaches and kayaked in mangrove forests full of amazing wildlife. I met locals, expats and fellow travelers, learning something new from each. This trip made possible by SIBC and Le Cacaotal gave me the memories of a lifetime, and I would like to thank both organizations sincerely.”

-Maria Osorio

“Having the privilege to travel to Costa Rica was eye opening. We learnt about the many, many, different kinds of cacao beans (50+!) and the delicate way of growing them. Although we couldn’t feed the client in person, we still got valuable feedback on our project. After that, we found some Costa Rica tours and we enjoyed every moment of it. Zip lining, kayaking, seeing animals (sloths!!), and walking 50 flights of stairs to see gorgeous waterfall… and more adventures. I still dream about the tropical fruits everyday.”

-Joanna Zhang

Au Pair Butrfly: Expanding Cultural Exchange Between France and The U.S.

Biarritz, France

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“I can’t express how grateful I am to have the opportunity to be a part of SIBC. Through my work with Au Pair Butrfly and SIBC, I challenged myself in ways that I have simply been unable to do in any other organization. As a team, we crafted two marketing plans targeting both American families and potential au pairs that are our age. Although I am not a marketing major, I learned so much about the marketing field by discussing buyer personas, competitor analysis, and potential marketing channels with members of the marketing team. Outside of marketing, I had the opportunity to apply lessons from finance classes through a condensed mergers and acquisitions target company spreadsheet. However, the highlight of my experience throughout this project was learning to lead. I worked on a project last year and this year I had the opportunity to lead a project. At first, I was really nervous and unsure of myself, but by the end of the project, I felt confident in my abilities. As a leader, I learned how to communicate effectively with others, problem-solve, and support new members. I built connections with all the team members that I would simply be unable to do if I were not in a leadership position. I often found myself advising new members which honestly made my experience as project lead. When I started my first SIBC project I remember feeling intimidated and unsure of myself, but I had project leads that were there to guide me every step of the way. When I became project lead, one of my goals was to be a support system for new members who were finding their footing. After talking to project members about their experience working with me on their first project, I'm honored to say I think I accomplished that. P.S.: France was amazing and the croissants were immaculate! The weather was very polarizing with surprise hail and rain around the corner of every sunny afternoon, but I wouldn’t change anything about my experience for the world. Thank you again SIBC for the amazing opportunity!”

-Elena Williams

“Working on the Au Pair Butrfly project was a life changing experience. I gained incredible insight into the world of consulting, particularly on an international level. As a team, researching, designing, and cultivating a project we were confident in presenting to our client was a long process. However, after almost two semesters of dedication and hard work, we succeeded in creating a thorough and thoughtfully designed project. Upon traveling to Biarritz, France to present to our client, I was amazed by the knowledge I had gained from working on the project. Yet, I discovered that creating the presentation was only half of the experience. The other half was spending an amazing day with the client, presenting our work, hearing their opinions, values, and aspirations for the future of the company. It was an unforgettable day. I cannot thank SIBC enough for this incredible opportunity. This project inspired me, allowed me to gain professional insight early in my career, and gave me a new perspective on the world and the joy in establishing global connections.”

-Emma Alvarez

“SIBC truly shaped my final year at USD and gave me an incredible opportunity to work with a global company. It was a wonderful learning and professional development experience for me. As a senior, this project allowed me to apply everything I have learned from my international business classes to help Au Pair Butrfly with its company goals. As a team, we created a three-pronged presentation focused on marketing and acquisitions in the U.S. market. I worked on creating a global marketing plan for Au Pair Butrfly to enter the U.S. market to find potential young adults to become au pairs. I learned the importance of presenting data as a story to keep the audience engaged and understanding the reasons behind the recommendations. It was wonderful to work for a woman-owned global company and learn from the women working there about the culture and life in France. The trip to Paris and Biarritz gave me a fun opportunity to engage with French culture and learn about how global business is run. My team and I had a great time in Paris visiting the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and getting to enjoy incredible food.”

-Emily Travis

IPE - International Political Economy: NET ZERO Financial Drivers and Market Incentives

IPE is an annual project in which SIBC teams from all three SIBC schools research, prepare and present their findings on a current topic of political economy. The judges are the SIBC donors, SIBC alumni and leading industry professionals. IPE is a friendly case competition type project in which students will gain invaluable research, executive presentation and teamwork skills. The University of Notre Dame SIBC kindly hosted SIBC chapters to present their research during the case competition.

Fall 2023 IPE Prompt: NET ZERO

USD NET ZERO Priority: Financial Drivers and Market Incentives

“I had an amazing time in Chicago and South Bend with SIBC. Preparing for the IPE forum not only taught me about a relevant and interesting topic, net zero financial incentives and market drivers, but also forced me to work efficiently in a small amount of time. I found just this preparation part extremely valuable and I already find myself applying the things I learned and practiced in other parts of my life. Once we got to the travel dates we were all so excited to see a new place so different (and so much colder) than what we are used to. We flew into the Chicago O'Hare Airport and immediately went out to explore the city. We got dinner as a team and got to know each other a little bit better while riding the L (what I learned is Chicago's subway system) and seeing the Bean from an amazing rooftop. The next morning we finished our tour of Chicago and headed to South Bend, where we met the Benedictine SIBC students and got a tour of the University of Notre Dame. Luckily for us, the we enjoyed an unseasonably warm and perfect fall afternoon. After the tour we came together with the other two IPE teams from Notre Dame and Benedictine for our final presentations. We had a round of introductions from all team members and all panelists, then got started with presentations. After the three student presentations we had a chance to as the panelists questions, then ask questions among ourselves. I thought the time we had to discuss our prompts and the things that came up in our research was so valuable, as I found the perspectives of the other students both interesting and unique. This discussion led us to question how we need to move forward as a society and how we as a generation need to make that happen, which was really powerful. Then we ate a short dinner together and spent the rest of the night exploring South Bend in true Notre Dame fashion. The next morning we were up bright and early to cheer on the Fighting Irish in their last home football game against Wake Forest. This was my favorite part of our travel experience, as we got to fully involve ourselves in the culture and traditions of another school that is so different from ours. We also got plenty of time to bond and network with other SIBC members at a SIBC-hosted tailgate. Overall, both preparing for this project and traveling with my team were hugely impactful and valuable in very different ways. I am so grateful I had the chance to be a part of our IPE team this fall and I can't wait to see what the rest of our year brings!”

-Isabelle Jackson

”My experience with the SIBC International Political and Economic (IPE) Team was truly enlightening and professionally enriching. Our team had the unique opportunity to travel to Chicago for a night and then South Bend, Indiana, where we participated in the IPE Forum held at University of Notre Dame. We focused our presentation on exploring the market incentives and financial tools like carbon taxes, cap and trade, and true cost pricing, and how these mechanisms contribute to achieving net-zero goals. The collaborative effort within our team was instrumental in presenting the complexities of these economic instruments and their impact on sustainable practices. Presenting our findings at the University of Notre Dame provided a platform to engage with experts, share insights, and foster meaningful discussions on the critical intersection of business, politics, and environmental responsibility. The experience not only broadened my understanding of international political and economic dynamics but also highlighted the importance of collaborating with and learning from others.”

-Abigail Rodgers

“This year's International Political and Economic Forum was fantastic! The project itself was fascinating - the team thoroughly enjoyed researching emerging net zero topics such as climate accounting, ESG, climate-related financial risk, and carbon cap and trade systems. The forum itself was great; there was an esteemed panel that provided tough questions and great feedback on the presentation. Additionally, all of the teams collaborated and engaged in dialogue about net zero following all of the presentations. It was inspiring to see so many students passionate about net zero. The trip was also enjoyable - Visiting Chicago was a blast, and going to the Notre Dame tailgate and football game was a great experience.”

-William Johnson

Beliza: Global Marketing of French Fashion

I truly am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this project. I learned so much about leadership, marketing, the fashion industry, and all the intricate elements of a market entry strategy. Being able to work with not only Beliza but also the Chamber of Commerce was such a unique and valuable experience. As the project lead for the global branding portion of the project, I helped to conduct market research about U.S. consumers and the swimwear industry via focus groups, create a competitor analysis matrix, construct a positioning map, and develop target consumer portfolios for Beliza. Our team also compiled a creative portfolio of digital marketing strategies, social media marketing strategies, website design improvements, potential partnerships, and a potential influencer program to build brand awareness. As a joint team, we worked together on many different aspects of the project including researching potential boutique and hotel partnerships. The project involved a lot of creative thinking which, while challenging, allowed everyone to contribute in their own unique way.

I also had the opportunity to travel with my team to present to our client in Marseille, France, and travel to Paris for a few days which was an amazing experience I will never forget. The team at Beliza was very receptive to our ideas and was excited to implement some of our proposed strategies. Presenting deliverables in this professional setting gave me real-world business experience that I know will help me in my future career endeavors. My fellow travel team members and I had a great experience in France and it was fun to see the intersection of French culture and the business environment in action. I am so grateful to SIBC for making this experience possible and cannot wait to continue working on more projects.

-Anna Kirkpatrick

Being a co-lead on the Beliza project over the course of 2 semesters was an enriching experience. Managing a team to execute the scope of work needs Beliza had was fulfilling and eye opening. There were challenges along the way but nothing impossible for the Beliza team. Through out the year we received feedback on what was great, as well as what needed to be improved. Having such a big team was amazing because of all the unique skills everyone brought to the table. By the end of the school year we had a dense project to present to our client and the excitement received for it was only achievable by the cohesive work all my fellow colleagues brought to the team.

-Sean Brenot

This was an amazing project to be apart of! This project experience gave me the opportunity to be able to work with a real company and assess the strengths and weakness of coming into the U.S. Market from an international country. It allowed me to learn about the U.S. Market Strategies and Branding Strategies and gave me the ability to have a real life experience with working with a company! Marseille was so amazing and working with Beliza was so much fun to do. Thank you so much SIBC, this was an amazing opportunity I won't forget about!

-Tess Eichenberger

SISA: Sustainable Energy through Real Estate

Working with SISA, an energy software solutions company, provided me with an unforgettable experience in Vancouver, Canada where we presented our year-long research findings. My role was to help with competitor and client research. During the day of our presentation we had lunch with the founder and met the team. Afterwards, SISA treated us to a walk around the city where it was full of life. It was a fun-filled trip where we experienced vibrant cultures, savory cuisines, and beautiful sightseeing. My team and I dove into the diverse cuisines, enjoying Chinese, Lebanese, and Ukrainian dishes. We also ventured into the city on the weekend on a stop-and-go tour bus that was an adventure in itself. The highlight of our sightseeing was Stanley Park, where we saw beautiful cherry blossoms. Working with SISA was a very hands-on experience. This project helped develop my professionalism and hone my communication and analytical skills for the workplace. I want to not only thank SISA for this amazing opportunity but also SIBC, for their support in helping me become a better student and professional.

-Alex Angulo

This transformative experience not only expanded my understanding of the startup environment but also provided valuable insights on building a business from the ground up. Through the project, I delved into the intricacies of lead prospecting and discovered effective strategies for onboarding potential clients. This hands-on learning experience has equipped me with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the world of entrepreneurship with confidence. Additionally, I had a great time exploring the city of Vancouver. It is truly one of the most diverse cities I've been to with a foreign-born population over 40%, exquisite cuisine from all over the world, and a vibrant cultural scene that captivated my senses. From walking through the historic neighborhoods of Gastown and Chinatown to immersing myself in the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Park, Vancouver's charm was irresistible.

-Sebastian Perez

Going to Vancouver was a great experience. The team and I had a great time and were able to experience the extremely diverse food culture, check out the nightlife, and do some sightseeing. I had no idea how diverse Vancouver was going to be either. Vancouver seemed to be much more of a melting pot than I was expecting it to be. The biggest highlight of the trip was presenting to the SISA team. It was very exciting to be able to present the information we had gathered over the year to the Founder of the company. The SISA team was very interactive throughout the presentation as well and asked lots of questions throughout. This made it much more engaging and also took away a lot of the nerves and stress we had been feeling leading up to the presentation. The coolest thing I learned was that the indigenous people of the Arctic and Subarctic regions (The "Inuit" people) used to stack rocks in a certain formation to resemble the figure of a human. These rock stacks mainly served as directional beacons for those traveling through the wilderness but had many other uses as well. Some of the other uses are to warn travelers of danger, to help hunters with locating animals, and to mark places of worship and admiration. They are called Inukshuks. Overall, the experience was amazing from start to finish and I am very thankful I was able to be part of this experience.

-Jake Wilson

As the project lead, I have gained extensive experience and a deep understanding of working internationally with companies. Throughout the year, my team demonstrated dedication and commitment to the project, which culminated in a successful presentation to the company. The opportunity to travel to Vancouver was truly amazing because it allowed me not only to present our year-long work but also to immerse myself in the city's culture. During our visit, we had the chance to meet the founder of the company, which provided an excellent opportunity for us to establish a personal connection. The presentation itself was an incredible experience, as the founder had numerous insightful questions for us, indicating a genuine interest in our work. After the presentation, we had the opportunity to explore Vancouver. The city's culture was diverse and captivating. We made it a point to have dinner at different restaurants each day, where we indulged in authentic cuisine from various cultures, including Chinese, Lebanese, and Ukrainian food. This gastronomic adventure added to the richness of our experience. Additionally, we took advantage of our time in Vancouver to explore its attractions. We visited the breathtaking Capilano Suspension Bridge, admired stunning waterfalls, and spent time in Stanley Park, a true gem of the city. I would like to express my gratitude to the SIBC (International Business Council) and SISA (Study Abroad Program) for providing us with this unforgettable experience. It has undoubtedly contributed to my career growth and helped me achieve my professional goals.

-Arleth Quintero

Glass Half Full: Removing Waste One Glass at a Time

This past year I had the honor of being the Project Leader for the Glass Half Full SIBC team. We got to help create an impact report and a residential recycling growth plan for the company. Traveling to New Orleans to give a presentation of our work in-person and seeing the recycling facility that we had learned so much about was such an unforgettable experience! From trying the beignets at Café du Monde to listening to live jazz music, New Orleans was such a cool city to explore. However, my favorite part of the experience was being able to see just how much of an impact Glass Half Full is making as we watched piles of glass get turned into sand for coastal restoration right before our eyes at their recycling facility. I am so thankful for the opportunity to work and learn from a company like Glass Half Full!

-Clara Fehrenbach

This was a great project to be a part of I thoroughly loved being a part of the GHF team this year. Working on something that has a real world environmental impact was extremely fulfilling. Along with this I got so much real world business experience that I couldn’t get in a classroom. NOLA was so cool to go to and I will always remember this trip. THANK YOU SIBC!

-Iruka Obinelo

My Project experience was incredible and one of many memories that I will cherish from my Senior year. The beginning of my journey being a part of Glass Half Full was enduring knowing we were going to make an impact on a company. Traveling with your team makes the journey more meaningful because we’re on our way together to present our research from so many club meetings at school. Having never been to New Orleans, our morning on our way to the presentation was an exciting car ride. But the most exciting was upon the presentation, we were going to head our way to the company for a tour. I was in complete joy seeing all the glass, and all their efforts that I had seen from behind the scenes; everything in person surpassed what I had imagined. From a morning presentation, to a company visit right after, we headed off into the city of New Orleans all together to indulge ourselves into a new culture for two days, after an accomplishing, and heartwarming start of the day.

-Sofia Patino

Glass Half Full was a year-long environmental impact consulting project where I learned beyond all my expectations. Throughout the project, our team developed a social impact report and provided recommendations to grow Glass Half Full's residential recycling customer base. In the end, we traveled to New Orleans and presented our work to the client, in a trip filled with learning and fun. Being able to work with Glass Half Full, a company whose mission and values I strongly relate to, felt rewarding and motivating. I was able to employ my creativity and Marketing background to devise out-of-the-box recommendations, and I learned from adapting my work around the continuous feedback we got along the way. I improved my teamwork abilities, and grew overall as an individual and aspiring consultant. In New Orleans, I got to explore a fully new environment and fall in love with the city. I am grateful for this opportunity, for the dedication of my peers and advisors, and for being a part of the SIBC!

-Maria Osorio

Xecue: Exportation from El Valle

In the spring of 2023, I had the opportunity of traveling for our presentation for Vinos Xecue. In this project, I worked on the promotional video, and this responsibility entailed contacting videographers and creating a storyboard. The base of this video focused on brand identity, authenticity, and attracting more American consumers. Additionally, ideas were given for their social media platforms to exhibit everything Xecue has to offer. This project allowed me to use my education in marketing, grow my professional skills, and build my resume. It feels very rewarding to be able to work with a group for so long and see great results. I am very grateful for my fellow peers and advisors throughout this project. Overall, SIBC offers so many benefits and I believe anyone that has any spark of interest, should join immediately!

-Danielle Dobler

This project was one of the best I have worked on! It provided me with invaluable experience with distribution evaluation and communication but also provided me with the opportunity to travel to Mexico to present. Overall, the project has expanded my knowledge of consulting and collaboration.

-Lucas Keefer

Traveling to El Valle de Guadalupe this past weekend to present the findings of the Xecué SIBC research was an incredibly rewarding and pleasant experience! The project itself, centered around the entrance of Xecué wines into the United States, provided invaluable strategy consulting experience, as we conducted market and import analyses and created a pitch deck for the client. The information was well received by Xecué's founder, Alberta, and the venue where the presentation was given, Museo de la Vid y el Vino, was fascinating and had incredible views of El Valle. Getting to visit Xecué after the presentation was thoroughly enjoyable, as we tried the different wines we had previously only read about, and as they served us incredible food. Alberta, her family, and the winery staff were extremely welcoming and pleasant people, and sharing a meal with them at the winery was one of my favorite parts of the trip. Additionally, the winery itself was beautiful and charming. I loved visiting this region of Mexico, as the landscape of rolling hills spotted with vineyards was so charming, and I enjoyed having the chance to improve my Spanish. This trip was incredible and I'm so thankful to have been extended this opportunity; Alberta and the team were incredible to work with, the project work was rewarding, and Xecué and El Valle de Guadalupe were beautiful.

-William Johnson

This experience has allowed me to capitalize on my bilingual abilities. I was able to effectively collaborate with my peers in order to complete the project. I thoroughly enjoyed being able to communicate with our client in Spanish in order to further understand Xecue's needs and how to best fulfill them. I loved getting to experience the beauties of Ensenada in just one weekend with all of my friends.

-Alexa Osorio

Working on Xecue taught me so many valuable things about teamwork and solving problems in an adaptable way. It was a great experience for me to grow my leadership skills and communicate with a group unified by a common goal. I am so grateful for this opportunity to get to see how much commitment and good team dynamic can transform a project from work to passion.

-Isaac Ayala

Taking part in the Xecué project was wonderful experience. To offer my time and service to a female-owned, Mexican small business was an honor and a privilege, and to go and actually see the business itself and learn about the land where the grapes are grown, how they market and sell their wine, where the name originates from; all this was very eye-opening for me. Ingeniera Ceja was incredibly hospitable, and I feel very grateful both to her and to SIBC for having the opportunity to be a part of such a valuable learning experience.

-Josué Ruiz

Artal: Cultivating forestry in Costa Rica

After working over a semester and a half on our Artal project, we got to travel to Costa Rica, see the Artal Teak forest, and meet some of the Artal team. I had never been to Costa Rica before, and the exotic animals, the lifestyle, and the overall culture was fascinating. The Artal team set up an entire day for us. We saw three different teak wood plantations, some with 6-year-old teak wood and some with 20-year-old teak. They also showed us around their cacao plantation and went into depth about the cacao industry and the process from tree to store. Before this project, I had not the slightest clue what teak was or what it was used for, and now I can tell you everything there is to know about teak. This trip was a highlight of my semester and an experience I will never forget! Through this club, I have developed a love for international consulting, and I’ve been able to develop my leadership and communication skills.

-Sydney Avery

Over the course of this academic year, I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to be one of the team leaders of the Artal Forest project. The experience I had travelling to Costa Rica to visit the company's teak and cacao plantations in-person was unforgettable. We met Leo and Haynar, who gave us a tour of Artal's farms, we even got to taste some raw cacao. On top of meeting our client, I got to experience new cultures and different foods. We visited some incredible places, such as Playa Avellas in Guanacaste, and got a little bit too much sun! This trio was the highlight of my time with SIBC and a memory I will always cherish.

-Sean Behan

Throughout this semester and last, I have been working as part of the team that represents Artal Forest in SIBC. Artal Forest are a Costa Rican based teak wood distributor. They informed us in October that they are keen to enter the US market as a distributor of teak wood so this became our team’s project. Working as part of this team has proved to be a great test and benefit of my collaboration, team-working, public speaking and business to business communication skills. To deliver this project, our team were required to conduct a market analysis for teak wood in the US to identify how successfully Artal Forest could venture into said market. Additionally, we were required to gain a thorough understanding of the Artal Forest business in order to present their strengths to potential clients in the US. In building this presentation and presenting to the SIBC exec board, I was fortunate enough to be chosen to travel to Costa Rica to meet the Artal Forest team. In Costa Rica, myself and 3 teammates got to experience a rich and diverse culture. We were lucky enough to be exposed to a variety of landscapes that exist in this country. We stayed 2 nights in the city of San Jose and one night in a coastal village outside Tamarindo. The day in Tamarindo was definitely my favourite as we had a lot of free time to check out the beach and the nearby restaurants/day clubs. Visiting two separate Artal Forest plantations was definitely a huge highlight from the trip. We were guided around these plantations by 2 different workers and they were able to answer any questions that we had. Both plantations were extremely impressive. I felt that this experience really made my work on the project feel real, value-added and highly appreciated. I would highly recommend this project (as well as any other in SIBC) to those considering joining SIBC. It was such a fun experience and is an excellent talking point for any future job interview.

-John McSorley

Although we did not get the chance to present to the clients in person, it was an incredible trip. Getting a tour of the sustainable teak and cacao forests and learning about the environmental approach to cultivating this farm was really interesting. I appreciated every moment from the long drives through Costa Rica's various climates, surfing the beach of Tamarindo during down periods, getting to know different members of the team, and watching the red sun set everyday. It was such a great experience!

-Leah Stevens

Naturway: Exploring Energy in Lisbon

Since joining SIBC in 2020, I have been a member of the Naturway team. And finally, after COVID and two years, I was able to travel with three other students to Lisbon, Portugal! Lisbon is a beautiful city that carries with it great history -- from the origin of early exploration to the Americas to the brightly colored buildings lining the cobblestone streets, the culture of Lisbon is unique and amazes all who visit it. As part of our consulting project, we met with several Portuguese business professionals and took a company tour of Energias de Portugal (EDP), a Portuguese based electric company. We also met with our clients, the Naturway team, for lunch and took their notorious tuk tuk challenge around the city. We stopped at many famous sites and took in the panoramic views along the way. This being my first international travel experience made it all the more exciting. Being welcomed by locals and hearing their stories, made me truly feel at home in a place so different from anything I had ever seen or witnessed before. Walking around the city, visiting different neighborhoods and churches, listening to fado (a type of popular Portuguese song), eating Portuguese food, and exploring the Lisbon nightlife, all left memories that I will cherish forever. One day of our trip included a train ride to Sintra. In Sintra, we saw some of the most spectacular castles and gardens. We walked over 12 miles and went up 100 floors that day, so you could say we walked a lot. Our last day in Portugal was spent in Cascais, relaxing on the beach, reflecting and appreciating all that we had the opportunity to see and partake in the last few days. As the trip came to a close, I said my goodbyes to the city I had begun to love. Returning home definitely had me wanting to go on another international trip in the near future -- just ask my parents about the amount of times I said "at this time last week we were ...". Lisbon will be hard to beat, but I am looking forward to the day I get to travel abroad again. Thank you SIBC for not only providing me with valuable professional work skills, but also the ability to explore and experience a culture so new and different from my own. As the Portuguese say, obrigada!

- AnneMarie Rodgers

After 3 semesters of working with Naturway, our team finally had the opportunity to travel to Portugal and meet with the Naturway representatives. Our project alone, which centered around market research and customer segmentation during the COVID-19 pandemic, was an amazing opportunity and allowed me to put what I was learning from my classes into the context of real business scenarios. My experience was truly enriched by the eventual opportunity to visit Lisbon, the place we had been studying for so long. As someone who hasn’t had the chance to travel internationally very much, this opportunity was especially empowering. Getting to experience new cultures, different foods, learn about international business, and interact with the Naturway team made for a trip I will never forget. I also really enjoyed meeting with representatives from EDP, Portugal’s leading electric energy provider, as well as international USD alumni for career advice and insights. In the span of a week, I feel like I was able to learn so much and grow my communication and critical thinking skills. It was the highlight of my summer!

- Gianna Sbarbaro

I really enjoyed working on the Naturway project and traveling to Lisbon to meet the team! Over the course of the semester, we compiled potential sales leads for the company to market to in order to expand their presence as a travel activity company. When we traveled to Lisbon, we were able to meet the owners of the company that the SIBC team had worked with for a few years. They even let us take part in their signature "Tuk Tuk Challenge" scavenger hunt around the city! Zooming around Lisbon in the back of a tuk tuk, and trying to beat our opposing team in the race, was definitely the highlight of my trip. While participating in Naturway's activity, we were able to see first-hand what one of their customers would experience. We immediately thought of new marketing ideas for them to target more customers, and hopefully we can share more with the company in the future. As well, the city of Lisbon could not have been more amazing. The scenery was beautiful; the food was amazing; and the people were always kind and welcoming! I cannot wait to go back one day. Joining SIBC was one of the best decisions I have made at USD! I have gained invaluable real-world consulting experience, in addition to forming bonds with so many amazing people. There is no other place where an aspiring business student can have the opportunity to work with an international company and travel around the world to meet them. That is what makes this club so unique!

- Steffek Rainey

Through the project my team completed for Naturway, I was able to travel to Portugal for a week. My team met with the employees of Naturway, as well as with several other companies. I toured EDP, visited Pena Palace in Sintra, saw churches and castles, tasted delicious local food, rode tuk tuks, and became close friends with the students in my travel group. I am so glad to have had the opportunity to travel to Portugal with this group! I encourage anyone who is at all interested in business to join SIBC and strive for this experience.

- Brianna Floyd

Xecue: Marketing Wine in Mexico

In the Fall of 2021, I wandered around the Alcala Bazaar in search of things to do on campus. As a First-Year student interesting in possibly majoring in International Business, I joined SIBC. The group I joined started working with Xecue Vinicola, which was tasked with improving its marketing strategy. We visited for the Valle de Guadalupe in Ensenada in December to become familiar with the area as well as Xecue’s competitors. Even though it was December, the sun warmed our skin and provided excellent encouragement to explore. The different wineries in the region each had unique views and excellent views. My favorite part was the food and people at Xecue winery. I could not believe how good the food tasted, as well as how kind the staff was. The winery owner, Alberta, treated us as though we were her own children and never failed to satisfy our needs. The Valle is a beautiful place to relax, as it is much different from the city of Ensenada. Even though our trip was for two days, it was an excellent way to rest and relax after a long semester of school. We then visited in the Spring to give our final presentation, and the weather did not disappoint. It was nice and warm, which allowed us to appreciate the shade provided by Xecue. We visited the wine museum where the view was breathtaking. The clear blue side and country country side view was relaxing. Following our final presentation, we went to Xecue and indulged in the delicious food I remembered fondly from the Winter. The staff was welcoming and were just excited as we were for being there. As a Latina student, I find different ways to be able to use my Spanish speaking abilities. Joining Xecue, I was able to take my Spanish skills to the next level by presenting in Spanish and talking with the winery owner and staff in Spanish. This solidified my passion for international business, and strengthened my appreciation for SIBC. Never in a million years would I have thought that as a first year student I would have been able to had the opportunities presented to me by SIBC. I look forward to making the most out of my time here at USD in SIBC, and I cannot wait to see what else I learn and accomplish!

- Alexa Osorio

In the spring of 2022, I had the opportunity to travel to the Valle de Guadalupe with the Xecue project team as a part of SIBC. This club is an amazing place to learn all aspects of business, and apply them to an international context. In working directly with companies, I’ve gained true business skills that I can use in the future through internships and jobs. The additional benefit of traveling is a bonus and I had a great time. We took a day trip down to Ensenada, Mexico to present all the work we had done for Xecue Winery. We presented our project in English and translated into Spanish when needed. I am fluent in Spanish and always appreciate a chance to practice with other people. After the presentation, our team was able to visit the winery. I had fun getting to know my teammates in a more casual setting. The food and wine were amazing! Afterward, we had a good time exploring the outside of Xecue, where we met other people and several excited dogs. Overall, this SIBC trip was amazing and I can’t wait for similar travel opportunities in the future!

- Brianna Floyd

Traveling to the Valle de Guadalupe to present our final pitch was one of the most surreal moments as a college student. As a project lead, this project allowed me to grow and develop myself in ways that I did not know were possible. I was able to develop my organizational and leadership skills. This project consisted of a year's worth of research surrounding the industry best practices, marketing techniques, and so much more. With the research, a destination marketing plan was complied for Xecue Winery! I am so thankful that I was given this opportunity to learn about the wine industry in such great depth and be offered the opportunity to travel to the wine region of Mexico.

- Maria Klostrakis

My project experience with Xecue was definitely something to remember especially since I did not know exactly what the SIBC did. I had a great group both semester and a great leader in Maria. I knew that if I did not know how to do something I can ask anyone. It was very well organized and I cannot thank both Xecue and SIBC for this experience.

- Nicholas Cantu