POTSDAM – Students from SUNY Potsdam, along with peers from the Cologne University of Applied Sciences in Germany, recently dove into a semester-long project centered on creating strategic business plans aimed at global expansion. This collaboration started when Dr. Kateryna Syniakova, a former exchange student from Ukraine, reached out to Dr. Ed Portugal, who teaches a key business management course.
“When she suggested the idea, my students were thrilled,” Professor Portugal said. “They were eager to connect directly with their German counterparts while exploring how to expand a U.S. business into Germany.”
Dr. Syniakova’s own journey has been transformative. After studying at SUNY Potsdam in 2006, she earned her Ph.D. and, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, relocated to Germany with her family. Now a research associate in Cologne, Dr. Syniakova is passionate about fostering international partnerships.
This semester marks a change in how SUNY Potsdam conducts its business plan competition. “In the past, teams relied on online research,” Professor Portugal explained. “Now, they’re engaging directly with international students. This hands-on approach has given them invaluable insights into global business dynamics.” The collaboration allowed students to explore cultural differences that influence leadership and communication styles, fostering a deeper understanding of international markets.
“Our project united students across borders,” Dr. Syniakova said. “I hope this leads to fruitful collaboration and a blend of skills from both sides.”
Jamie Cruikshank, Interim Dean of SUNY Potsdam’s School of Education, added, “This partnership enriches our students’ learning experiences significantly. I’m proud of what they’ve achieved.” The student teams tackled areas like target markets, revenue streams, and globalization strategies, leading to well-rounded business plans.
For Tyler Gould from Rochester, being a team manager was a significant opportunity to hone leadership skills. “Coordinating our group taught me about responsibility and teamwork,” he noted. “Connecting with German students over Zoom was eye-opening; we found many similarities in our perspectives.”
The U.S. teams took the initiative as strategic planners, considering how to navigate the German market using the “business model canvas” approach. Nick Long from Elbridge embraced his leadership role, emphasizing productivity and clear communication. “Working with the German students was an eye-opener,” he said, appreciating their insights into the business landscape.
Ryan Mahlmeister reflected on his growth during the project, acknowledging the significant feedback from German peers. “Their perspectives helped us understand how cultural expectations shape business decisions,” he shared. “This experience taught me about leadership and effective communication in ways I couldn’t learn from books.”
Ryleigh Ferguson from Canton found that merging different cultural approaches enhanced their final product. “The blend of innovation and structure was powerful,” she remarked. “It prepared us for future challenges with confidence.”
As part of its mission, SUNY Potsdam’s Department of Business Administration provides flexible degree options that prepare students for the realities of today’s global marketplace. Whether through on-campus courses or online programs, students are equipped to thrive in both for-profit and non-profit sectors.
Ultimately, this collaboration not only broadened the students’ skills but also nurtured friendships and professional networks that extend beyond borders, illustrating the true value of global teamwork.
Source link
Potsdam, Canton, Ogdensburg, Massena, Gouverneur, North Country, St. Lawrence County, Adirondacks, Adirondack foothills, New York, Village of Potsdam, Village of Norwood, Village of Canton, Village of Massena, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, St. Lawrence Seaway, Alcoa, Arconic, Clarkson University, St. Lawrence University, SUNY Potsdam, SUNY Canton
