As globalization brings together people and markets, we often hear about the importance of intercultural understanding and communication. But what does it mean for University of Wisconsin-Madison students to gain a global education? And how will it help them in their future careers? That is the focus of an upcoming alumni panel "Languages and Business".
Languages and Business will take place from 6:00-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 13 in 4151 Grainger Hall. The event is open to the public. The panel is part of an ongoing Language Institute program, “Language for Life,” which showcases alumni and other professionals using languages studied at UW-Madison in a variety of fields and professions.
Mia Johnson (BA'10, Economics and International Studies), has built a transnational life since graduating, working in three different continents and using three different languages. From a business development company in Siberia, to a business analyst position in Puerto Rico, to working in the tourist industry in France, Johnson has honed skills begun at UW-Madison that allow her to adapt to new situations.
“I never saw myself actually living abroad and using the French language in my everyday life, but it was my previous study of Spanish and Russian that allowed me to pick up French so quickly and use it in a confident manner,” said Johnson, who will join the panel remotely from her home in Lyon, France.
Steve Feldman (BBA'93, Marketing and Management) used his study at UW-Madison and his deep experiences abroad to found a consulting company.
“Back in the late 80s and early 90s, as a business major at the UW, we spent a lot of time talking about Japan," Feldman said. "Learning from a textbook is one thing, but immersing yourself in a completely different culture's business environment is another. From a rural Japanese chicken farm to the headquarters of my downtown Tokyo office, almost 7 years and a diverse range of experiences helped me master the language, the culture and set a course for the rest of my life. Now, 20 years later from my office in Los Angeles, the Japanese market and the language are still a very satisfying and vital part of my everyday life."
Even for students planning to work in the United States, studying another language can help one’s career, according to Jillian Bau (BA'08, Economics and Russian).
“I think it is invaluable for students entering the work force to be able to offer something which distinguishes them from other candidates," said Bau, who is a senior consultant with Ernst & Young LLP’s transfer pricing practice in Chicago. "I interviewed with several reputable companies and every interviewer I encountered inquired about my Russian major. I think having foreign language skills sends a positive message to employers - namely that you are open to challenges and understand the global nature of today's world.”
Language for Life: Languages and Business is sponsored by the Language Institute with the Wisconsin School of Business’s Office of Undergraduate Academic Services and the generous support of the College of Letters and Science Anonymous Fund.
The Language Institute promotes collaboration for research, education and community outreach in languages, literatures and cultures.
See the event web page for more about the event. Video will be available afterwards.