Traveling to a new country for the first time is an exhilarating mix of excitement, curiosity, and let’s be honest—a little bit of fear. When I traveled to Rome, Italy, this past November, I experienced all of the above. My trip included a visit to my sister, a University of Washington Seattle student studying marine biology abroad, and it marked the first time either of us had ventured beyond the U.S. The journey didn’t just broaden my horizons—it opened my eyes to the burgeoning industry of travel experiences and the business opportunities that come with it. 

As someone who works within business education, I couldn’t help but notice the thriving economic ecosystem which created memorable travel moments. Rome, a city steeped in history and culture, provided me with a firsthand look at the “business of experiences”—a concept that blends tourism with curated, authentic activities designed to engage travelers in meaningful ways. 

Guided by Opportunity��

My first day in Rome I stayed at an Airbnb just a block away from my sister’s apartment, but she had classes all morning, leaving me to fend for myself. Overwhelmed by the pressure to make the most of my time, I turned to the internet for guidance. A quick search of “what to do in Rome” revealed a treasure trove of pre-packaged experiences: Colosseum tours, bus trips to iconic landmarks, pasta-making classes, and even guided explorations of ancient tombs. 

Initially, the sheer volume of options felt daunting. But as I explored further, I began to see these offerings for what they were: not just tourist traps, but thoughtfully crafted opportunities for visitors to connect with the city. These experiences gave me a sense of reassurance. I wasn’t alone in my exploration—Rome’s businesses were there to guide me. 

Experiences as Economic Drivers��

The travel industry has shifted significantly over the years. Today, travelers crave immersive, meaningful experiences that allow them to connect with a place and its people. For entrepreneurs, this trend represents an incredible opportunity. With just a few taps on our smartphones and a pre-loaded credit card, we can book a tour to explore some of the most ancient cultural experiences! 

Consider one example: Rome’s pasta-making classes. These experiences are more than just a fun activity; they’re a gateway for tourists to learn about Italian culture, food traditions, and history. At the same time, they’re a source of income for local chefs, small businesses, and tour operators. By monetizing the cultural expertise and unique skills of local residents, these businesses turn authenticity into a profitable enterprise. 

Stockholm, Sweden, my next stop, offered a different lens on the same concept. During my stay, I had the privilege of staying with a friend’s family who warmly welcomed us into their home. They shared home-cooked meals and introduced us to their favorite Midsummer traditions, even in the heart of winter. They also gave us a glimpse into Swedish social life during the colder months, showing us how exciting the winter can be despite the frosty weather and the sun setting at 3:00pm. My sister and I also booked a winter kayaking experience through the channels of Stockholm. Paddling through the icy waters was an unforgettable adventure that perfectly captured the blend of thrill and connection that modern travelers seek. This experience came from a Google search of “what to do in Sweden” and thanks to our local tour guide, it was an absolute highlight! 

The Balancing Act: Tourism vs. Authenticity 

While curated experiences are often marketed as “authentic,” travelers typically look to strike a balance between embracing tourist attractions and uncovering genuine cultural experiences. For me, that balance came in the form of splitting my time between structured tours and spontaneous moments with my sister. Wandering the streets of Rome, savoring gelato after a night out with her classmates, taking photos by the under-construction Trevi Fountain, and visiting her favorite cafes, where the barista would help her practice Italian, created memories that perfectly complemented the curated experiences.

The Bigger Picture for Business 

This trip exemplified the potential for innovation in the experience economy. From small, family-run operations to larger companies leveraging technology to offer virtual tours or augmented reality-enhanced excursions, there’s room for businesses to thrive on every scale.  

Travel isn’t just about seeing the world; it’s about experiencing it in ways that are personal and impactful. A person’s own goals and priorities are a huge part of which experiences are worth it or not. The business of experiences makes this possible, offering travelers curated opportunities to connect with their destinations while empowering local economies. My trip to Rome and Stockholm taught me that fear can give way to curiosity, and curiosity can lead to discovery—not just of new places, but of new ways to approach business. 

As I reflect on my journey, one thing is clear: the business of experiences isn’t just a trend; it’s a cornerstone of modern travel. For entrepreneurs, students, and business professionals, it’s a reminder that innovation can come from simply listening to what people want and finding creative ways to deliver it. 

The post The Business of Experiences – A Personal Take on Travel appeared first on School of Business.

From the very beginning of his MBA journey, Steve was driven by a clear goal: to enhance his leadership skills and elevate his ability to navigate complex business challenges. “The most valuable part of the program has been hearing from my peers,” Steve shared. “They come from diverse professional backgrounds, each bringing a different perspective. It’s the kind of learning that isn’t confined to the classroom but happens through real-world experiences and stories shared in group discussions.”

One memorable assignment that left a lasting impact on Steve was the “crow” exercise, where students were tasked with counting crows on the 56�Թ��� Bothell campus. As a father of young children, Steve often found ways to integrate his family life into his education. This particular assignment became a unique opportunity to involve his family, turning it into a fun and educational activity for his child and wife as well. It also highlighted the flexibility of the MBA program, allowing Steve to balance his academic goals with meaningful family moments.

Steve highlighted the importance of the MBA classes in shaping his current leadership approach, specifically in courses such as 501 and 531. He shared that what helped his career the most was learning to get comfortable with the uncomfortable, an essential skill for any leader. “When we’re doing consequential things in our teams, there will be ambiguity, there will be disagreement, and we need to be cautious about consensus. As a leader, it’s my role to help navigate this for the best possible outcomes.” He explained that both courses provided real-world scenarios that allowed students to practice navigating these complex situations and gain the skills needed to be effective in real-world leadership challenges.

In addition to leadership skills, Steve valued the strategic insights gained from these classes. “The strategic management frameworks we explored in 531 were incredibly practical. I was able to immediately apply them to challenges I was facing in my job, at the time. The focus on long-term thinking and the ability to anticipate market shifts has been key in my current role.” Steve noted that this practical application of classroom theory to his professional life has been a game-changer, enabling him to approach problems with a fresh and strategic outlook.

Another element of the MBA experience that Steve valued was the opportunity to learn diverse insights from his peers. “They are professionals from multiple industries with a vast set of experiences. Getting to hear about the situations they encounter and how they approached and learned from those situations was super valuable.” For Steve, this exchange of insights provided him with a broader perspective, helping him see challenges through different angles. “Being able to shift my perspective helps me think more creatively and have a bigger impact in my current role, as well as helped me get promoted,” he noted.

Steve’s journey through the MBA program not only refined his leadership skills but also gave him the tools to drive meaningful change in his professional life. With a broader understanding of business strategy and a stronger network of peers, he left the Bothell MBA program equipped to lead with confidence and navigate the complexities of today’s business world.

Written by Riley Ovall, Events and Communications Specialist

The post Navigating Leadership and Growth: Steve Thurman’s Journey through the MBA Program�� appeared first on School of Business.

For Angie, the path to securing this internship began with careful research. “While I was looking for the perfect study abroad programs, I stumbled upon one of 56�Թ���B’s partner programs, CIEE. The application took a lot of revising and waiting, but in the end, it was all worth it.” With support from the 56�Թ��� Bothell School of Business Mentorship EDGE program, Angie connected with her mentor, Datyous Mahmoudian, who played a crucial role in preparing her for this journey. “Without his help, I don’t think I would have been as prepared as I was before I left.”

Reflecting on the coursework that bolstered her confidence, Angie credits her organization and management classes for equipping her with essential skills. “From learning how to manage a team to practicing my financial skills, it was all worth my hard work in class.” Her business education gave her a foundation, preparing her to navigate both the professional and cultural challenges of working abroad.

Adjusting to South Korea’s unique work culture was an eye-opening experience. Angie noticed stark differences in workplace dynamics, describing how Korean colleagues fostered a strong sense of camaraderie. “In the U.S., work culture often focuses solely on work-related conversations. In Korea, you get to know people beyond just work. My intern group even did bonding activities, like spending the weekend together and visiting traditional saunas. These were memorable moments that truly deepened our connections.” This shift in work culture, along with the new technology tools she used, enriched her understanding of global business practices.

Looking back, Angie feels her time at the School of Business has been pivotal in preparing her for global experiences. From encouragement in the Dean’s Office to faculty insights on international work, 56�Թ��� Bothell has supported her every step of the way. Her advice for students considering an international internship was, “Don’t be afraid to try new things. Keep an open mind and see the world from a different perspective. Take advantage of the moment you are in.”

This internship at Gen.G Esports has been a milestone for Angie, shaping her future career aspirations and fueling her passion for global business. She returned with fresh skills in team management, cross-cultural communication, and an expanded vision of what’s possible on the international stage.

Written by Riley Ovall, Communications and Events Specialist

The post Exploring New Horizons: Angie Turcios’ Global Internship Journey in Seoul appeared first on School of Business.

The newly renovated space features modernized classrooms equipped with the latest technologies, offering an enhanced learning experience. New faculty and staff offices have been added, ensuring a dedicated work environment for all members of our academic community, including dedicated spaces for part-time faculty. 

In line with our commitment to supporting well-being and personal growth, the building now includes a Nursing Parents Room and a Meditation/Quiet Room for reflection and mental wellness. We’ve also allocated areas specifically��for providing faculty and students with the tools and space to foster innovation and research.��

Additionally, the Beardslee Building now offers meeting and gathering spaces, facilitating collaboration and community engagement within the School of Business. 

We’re excited for students to enjoy these new features starting this Autumn! The doors are officially open, and we look forward to showcasing the renovations at our upcoming Open House. Stay tuned for more information. 

Written by Riley Ovall, Events and Communications Specialist

The post Exciting Renovations at the Beardslee Building: Enhancing Learning and Community Spaces�� appeared first on School of Business.

The DFA program continues to grow in popularity, with an impressive 95% of the 156 students who applied confirming their admission. Representing 58 high schools from Washington State and Canada, this year’s cohort boasts an average GPA of 3.7, with 60% of the students having completed Running Start programs.  

“It was exciting to see our incoming DFA students meet each other for the first time. The new connections and friendships will serve as a community and a network for years to come. ”��-Tracy Gojdics, MBA, Director of Undergraduate Student Success

The Direct First-Year Admit Program: A Pathway to Success 

From the moment they start classes, DFA students are eligible for School of Business scholarships, can declare Business Administration as their major, and begin networking with leading companies. Additionally, they have access to business-specific clubs, events, and the Career Services office, providing them with a comprehensive support system. 

The Direct First-Year Admit (DFA) Program is a unique opportunity for incoming students with a passion for business to directly join the 56�Թ��� Bothell School of Business upon admission. Once accepted, DFA students gain immediate access to a wide range of business specific resources and opportunities designed to help them succeed both academically and professionally. 

A Day of Fun, Networking, and Learning 

With a game of networking Bingo as the centerpiece, the event became a dynamic blend of engaging interactions and introductions, setting the stage for a collaborative and spirited year ahead. The bean bag toss and prize wheel cranked up the excitement, giving everyone a chance to show off their skills and win School of Business swag while mingling and making new friends.

“A business education is all about collaborating with fellow students as you pursue your goals. The DFA program is a great way to start students off right in this regard. Today the students made new connections with those who will push them and support them over the next four years.” -Stephen Jones, PhD, Associate Professor of Management, Management & Organization Area Coordinator

In addition to networking with their peers, students were greeted by 56�Թ��� Bothell faculty and staff, including Vice Chancellor Sharon Jones and Associate Dean of Administration Sophie Leroy, who welcomed them to the School of Business community. Students learned about key resources available to them, such as academic advising services. These services are designed to support them from their very first day on campus through to graduation. That is what sets a DFA students apart- their belonging to the business community from the day they become a 56�Թ��� Bothell student.  

 “The DFA Program at 56�Թ��� Bothell School of Business provides students with a high-quality and innovative business education in a supportive learning environment” -Sophie Leroy

Associate Dean of Administration & Programs, Sophie Leroy welcomed DFA students to this inaugural event sharing the unique value of being part of the prestigious program. “The DFA Program provides an enriching, dynamic, and innovative business education for you. You are a business leader from Day 1, taking advantage of business courses taught by our world-class instructors while also participating in co-curricular activities that will connect you to the major employers in the region and expose you to many business professions and industries.”

“Our goal is for our students to become business leaders and have positive impacts on their community” “Our DFA program sets you up for success through courses taught by our world-class instructors and through the co-curricular activities and programs we have available that will connect you to the major employers in the region and expose you to many business professions and industries.” -Sophie Leroy

Building a Strong Foundation for the Future 

The DFA BBQ marked the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey for these talented and ambitious students. With the support of the School of Business’s dedicated faculty and staff, they are well-equipped to take advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead. 

If you’re interested in learning more about how to apply for the Direct First-Year Admit Program and kickstarting your journey into the world of business at 56�Թ��� Bothell please learn more here:

“We are thrilled to welcome DFA students to the 56�Թ��� Bothell School of Business. We look forward to supporting their academic and career journey ahead.” – Sophie Leroy

The post Welcome BBQ Kicks Off a New Year for 56�Թ��� Bothell School of Business DFA Students�� appeared first on School of Business.

Her decision to pursue an MBA at 56�Թ��� Bothell marked a crucial turning point in her career. After evaluating several programs, Yenlik chose 56�Թ��� Bothell for its unique offerings. The small class sizes, affordable tuition, and in-person learning environment provided the perfect blend of personalized education and community engagement. Yenlik shared that she valued the opportunity to engage directly with professors and classmates, which fostered a collaborative and supportive learning atmosphere.  

One of the most enriching aspects of her MBA experience was her involvement with the 56�Թ��� Bothell MBA Association, a vibrant community of business leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and MBA students. Yenlik joined the MBAA as a People’s Officer, where she quickly embraced the opportunity to build relationships and contribute to the community. Her dedication and leadership qualities soon led her to the role of Chief Executive Officer in the association. In this capacity, she spearheaded the organization of the MBAA conference in 2024. Yenlik shared, “I had an opportunity to build a team from scratch, to plan, organize, create a roadmap, strategy, structure, and execute the conference for 2024. And we all did it within six weeks. So that was the most challenging and rewarding accomplishment that I’ve done in this two-year program.”   

"The faculty played a crucial role in my success as a student. At first, I was afraid, thinking, 'Oh my God, it's been many years since I've been to school. I didn't think I could even pass the classes.' But not only did I pass, I also excelled by staying disciplined, diligent, and committed to my work, while also being vulnerable and asking questions. Some of the faculty became my mentors and lifelong friends. I will never forget the help and support they provided."

Beyond her contributions to the MBAA, Yenlik’s academic journey was marked by significant professional achievements. The skills and insights gained from the program enabled her to make impactful business decisions, ultimately generating millions of dollars in revenue in her role at the time. In addition, she “was able to negotiate salaries, bonuses, and stock options confidently,” she shares, highlighting a crucial skill she developed during the program.  “I didn’t have any business education background, so when someone mentioned stocks or shares before, I would think, ‘Oh my God, this is like rocket science for me. I don’t know what they’re talking about. I’m just going to say yes to everything.’ But now, thanks to Professor Andrea Anthony, who taught us a lot about stocks, their value, and how to invest, I understand it much better. I believe these are some of the valuable benefits I’ve gained from being in the program and in my job.”

The supportive faculty and the program’s comprehensive curriculum equipped her with a broader perspective on problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. Yenlik explained, she has “more confidence of creating a team, building, and making sure that we’re focusing on one goal, because goals are always critical in every endeavor. ” The MBA program also played a pivotal role in Yenlik’s personal development. It helped her grow as a parent, partner, and friend, fostering soft skills that extended beyond the corporate realm.  

The global study tour to Finland, a memorable highlight of Yenlik’s MBA journey, provided a unique opportunity to engage with international business leaders and gain insights into different markets and cultures. Yenlik wholeheartedly recommends this experience to all students, emphasizing the lasting memories and invaluable learning it offers. “It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” she recalls fondly.  

Looking ahead, Yenlik’s post-graduation plans are as ambitious as her MBA journey. With her newly earned degree, she intends to explore leadership and consulting roles that allow her to apply her comprehensive skill set. In addition to her professional aspirations, she plans to focus on her passion for aromatherapy and perfume-making, leveraging the business knowledge gained from her MBA to scale her small business. Yenlik’s vision includes balancing her career with her love for family, spread across three continents, and her desire to travel and stay connected with them.  

In summary, Yenlik Mukhanova’s experience at 56�Թ��� Bothell’s MBA program is a testament to the program’s transformative power. It has not only equipped her with the tools and confidence to excel in the corporate world but also enriched her personal life. Her involvement in the MBAA, the invaluable connections she made, and the applicable education she received have all contributed to her growth as a leader and individual.   

Interested in learning more about 56�Թ��� Bothell’s MBA program?

The post Yenlik��Mukhanova��– A Journey of Growth and Leadership with 56�Թ��� Bothell’s MBA Program�� appeared first on School of Business.

Laura described the mini-MBA program as a “pivotal experience.” One of the most impactful lessons she learned was from Dr. Andrea Anthony’s Financial Analysis and Capital Budgeting session. Laura explained “I had a chance to put those return-on-investment tools to work right away. When previously evaluating a project, I hadn’t done a full cash flow analysis or factored in the cost of capital. Prior to this analysis, the project was looking like a good investment. Turns out, applying what I learned showed it was just the opposite! It showed us the project wasn’t actually the great investment we thought it was. Learning how to properly evaluate projects to make the best investment decisions was an important takeaway from this program. “

“The mini-MBA program transformed my patchwork understanding of business into a cohesive, practical toolkit, bridging the gap between my scientific background and the business world.”

For Laura, the mini-MBA program was a series of revelatory “aha!” moments. Coming from a scientific background with no prior business education, she had previously encountered business concepts in a fragmented manner. The program brought clarity to these concepts, turning vague notions into practical tools that she could readily apply in her role. A full MBA program was not feasible at this stage in her career due to time and financial constraints. The mini-MBA offered an efficient and accessible alternative, providing a broad overview of business essentials while keeping the door open for further studies if necessary.

Among the various topics covered, Laura found “while the entire mini-MBA curriculum was valuable, several areas proved immediately applicable to my role in Operations. The most impactful were business strategy, financial analysis and capital budgeting tools, data storytelling, and negotiation techniques.” These skills have proven invaluable in her daily work and have equipped her with the hands-on tools necessary to navigate complex business challenges.

Reflecting on her experience, Laura describes the mini-MBA program as a transformative journey that turned her knowledge of business into a “cohesive and practical toolkit.” Laura believes that the mini-MBA can significantly benefit individuals from any professional background, providing them with the essential tools to understand and navigate the business landscape. Looking back, she wishes she had access to such a program earlier in her career, as it would have provided a crucial framework for understanding business concepts as they emerged in her work life.

Learn more about the Eastside Mini-MBA Executive Certificate

Written by Riley Ovall, Events and Communications Specialist

The post Bridging Science and Business: Laura Jefferson’s Mini-MBA Story appeared first on School of Business.

Wayne Jeffers, the Director of Technology & Strategic Initiatives for Whidbey Telecom, embarked on a transformative journey with the Eastside Mini-MBA Executive Certificate program, graduating on April 8, 2024. With a rich background that includes an Electronics Technician certification from the US Navy, a BS in Information Technology from the University of Phoenix, and now a Mini-MBA from the 56�Թ���, Wayne’s career reflects a commitment to continuous learning and strategic growth.

When Wayne first encountered the Mini-MBA program through a recommendation from a coworker and the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce, he saw an opportunity to bridge gaps in his business knowledge. His decision to join the program was fueled by a desire to expand his expertise beyond his technology-focused role and to gain a deeper understanding of various business aspects.

Throughout the program, Wayne found the curriculum to be exceptionally informative and engaging. He often reflects upon the Business Strategy session taught by Dr. Stephen Jones, using the concept of Value Composition Diagrams as he navigates projects and manages his teams. The practical insights and frameworks provided by the Mini-MBA have significantly impacted Wayne’s approach to his work, enhancing his ability to tackle complex business challenges with confidence.

The Mini-MBA has been pivotal in broadening Wayne’s perspective, allowing him to apply new skills in accounting, business analytics, and negotiations to his current role. This expanded skill set has not only enriched his professional toolkit but also contributed to his effectiveness in driving strategic initiatives within his organization.

Wayne’s experience with the program underscores its value as both a standalone credential and a primer for those considering further academic pursuits. He believes the Mini-MBA program is an excellent way to uncover and address areas of business that professionals may not be familiar with, setting the stage for continued growth and development.

Reflecting on his experience, Wayne advises future students to fully engage with the program’s fast-paced and immersive curriculum. “The Mini-MBA program provides a full toolbox of resources and experts to guide you as you explore and broaden your knowledge and skills,” he notes. He emphasizes that active participation and focus are key to maximizing the benefits of the program.

learn more about the Eastside Mini-MBA Executive Certificate

Written by Riley Ovall, Events and Communications Specialist

The post Mini-MBA Alumni Highlight – Wayne Jeffers appeared first on School of Business.

A Career of Growth and Achievement��

Karishma’s career at Microsoft began with a role as a Cloud Solution Sales Specialist, where her dedication and exceptional skills quickly stood out. Her ability to navigate the complexities of cloud solutions and her commitment to excellence propelled her to the position of Cloud Transformational Specialist. In this role, Karishma led impactful projects, driving digital transformation initiatives and working closely with clients to leverage cloud technologies effectively.��Today, as a Windows 365 Global Blackbelt, Karishma continues to serve as an industry expert. Among her numerous accolades, Karishma has received the Customer Impact Award and the Q3 Top Speaker Award in 2022, highlighting her exceptional contributions to Microsoft’s success.��

“Reflecting on my journey, I vividly recall how 56�Թ���B has profoundly influenced my life. The innovative teaching styles, the vibrant campus engagement opportunities, and the supportive community were pivotal in launching my career. My experiences ranged from contributing at the on-campus housing to being one of the first fitness instructors at the ARC. These roles, coupled with the knowledge and insights gained from my business degree, have been instrumental in shaping me into the individual I am today. I owe a debt of gratitude to 56�Թ���B for its significant role in my personal and professional development.”

Giving Back Through Mentorship 

Beyond her professional achievements, Karishma is passionate about giving back to the community that helped shape her career. She is a dedicated mentor in the 56�Թ��� Bothell School of Business’s Mentorship EDGE program. This program empowers students to transform their lives and careers through personalized mentoring with exceptional business leaders. Karishma helps students learn to effectively present themselves in interviews, identify career pathways, overcome setbacks, and confidently step into the next chapter of their professional journeys. ��

Join us in celebrating Karishma Sharma’s incredible journey and her contributions to the 56�Թ��� Bothell community and beyond. Her story is a shining example of what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. 

The post Alumni Spotlight: Karishma Sharma ’16 appeared first on School of Business.

Learn more about their experiences here.

The post Innovation, Culture and Technology in India appeared first on School of Business.