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