(1) Professor Gupta’s academic course on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

In class we discussed a Wall Street Journal about DEI and watched a video about stakeholder capitalism. The question, “if you were an entrepreneur and starting a company, would you factor in DEI or give the job to those more qualified?” It was interesting to see the different viewpoints of each classmate. Personally, if I had a new startup, I would definitely have a designated team focused on DEI. While I believe that you should always hire the more qualified applicant, I believe that being conscious and aware of DEI factors is very important, as it offers a diverse way of thinking to a company. I believe this is something worth investing in as a company and would be willing to drop initial costs on it for the long term benefits. It was also interesting to get several viewpoints and arguments on the stakeholder capitalism video as it provided a different way to present information rather than just reading an article. 

(2) Professors Swain and Gupta’s Internship Seminar 

For our homework assignment, we wrote about leadership, hierarchy, and how we show respect in the workplace. In my workplace, it is difficult to see who holds “the higher position.” There are several booths, and while the groups sit separately, they will often bounce back and forth asking each other questions and conversing; however, I sit at a separate booth by myself, so it makes me wonder if they are separated by power. When discussing what a good leader looks like, to me, a good leader is assertive, empathetic, and good at communication. Good leaders are amicable, actively listen, and know when to take accountability and support others. Some days I feel that I am under good leadership, and other days I feel that I need to be my own leader and figure things out on my own. I am eager to go to the networking event and meet other leaders and companies. I wonder how they compare to my working environment? 

(3) Practicum in Milan with an Italian Company 

At work, I continued to work on the database and creating content for the marketing team. Something I noticed was that my boss often gives me contradicting instructions. This has made the work a little frustrating and confusing, but I believe that I am truly learning communication and patience. I have gotten much better at asking clearer questions to ensure that I know what I am doing before I start a project. I also was offered my first “smart” working day on Wednesday. Before coming to Italy, I had no idea what this term was, but now I know that this is a common term for virtual working. It was enjoyable to switch up each day what project I am working on as in the past I have spent the last consecutive days working on the same thing. 

(4) Social and Cultural immersion through travels in Italy and Europe

This week a few of us traveled to Ibiza and we explored the beaches, Ibiza town, and saw Clavin Harris and David Guetta. I have never been to Ibiza before so it was nice to explore the night life and the charm the old town gave. Something I picked up on was that the beach culture was very different in Ibiza than it is in the US. People on the beaches are definitely open to more exposure than they are on the beaches in the US. Ibiza town was right near Dalt villa, where we explored the city walls, squares, and narrow lanes. We explored Ibiza castle and the medieval surroundings. We then took the rest of the day to relax by the beach.