Rucks International Scholars Geaux Global

September 30, 2024

Thanks to the Rucks International Scholars Award (RISA), LSU management majors can enrich their undergraduate experience and improve their career readiness by participating in a study abroad program. 

We are highlighting the learning journeys of the 2023-24 RISA recipients, as selected by the Rucks Department of Management. 

 

Emily Demps '25

BS Management with a concentration in international management
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain

"Studying abroad in Barcelona was an enriching experience that significantly contributed to my personal and academic development. Visiting places like Sitges and Costa del Mar while improving my Spanish skills was a valuable opportunity. Applying the Spanish I learned in school to real-life situations boosted my confidence in decision-making and navigating new environments. Building meaningful friendships with people from diverse backgrounds was also a highlight. These connections allowed me to articulate my passions and skills better, deepening my understanding of myself.

Academically, it was gratifying to see how the management concepts I've studied in class come to life in practical settings. Concepts such as organizational leadership, team dynamics, and HR management became more tangible. Connecting classroom theory to real-world experiences, especially in communication and leadership, reinforced my learning and provided new insights into effective management practices. This experience validated what I've learned and expanded my perspective on applying these concepts in the real world."

Emily Demps stands in the foreground and points to an unusal rock formation

Emily Demps visits Montserrat while studying in Barcelona.


Molly Inman '24

BS Management with a concentration in strategic leadership
Lisbon, Portugal | Lead Abroad Program

"Studying abroad in Lisbon, Portugal, was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As it was my first time in Europe, I originally planned to travel to multiple countries while abroad. Instead, I fell in love with Portugal and decided to spend the entire month there, immersing myself in the country's unique culture instead of visiting other places. I had the incredible opportunity to connect with fellow students from all over the United States. I also interacted with other LSU students, some of whom I hadn't met before. I made so many lifelong friends while studying abroad. I couldn't be more thankful for the opportunity. 

I took two classes in Lisbon: an international business course and a consulting internship course. The internship involved consulting for two small businesses in Lisbon; we focused on marketing strategies and crafting brand narratives. This hands-on experience enhanced my education and equipped me with practical skills that helped me graduate early. My passion for the work and the city inspired me to pursue a job with Lead Abroad. My time in Lisbon was not just an academic endeavor but a pivotal chapter in my personal and professional growth.”

Molly Inman joins other LSU students in holding a purple LSU flag in a park in Portugal.

Molly Inman (right) joins fellow Tigers in raising the LSU banner in Portugal. 


Paige Snyder '25

BS Management with a concentration in strategic leadership
Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain | LSU Global Engagement

"I had the incredible opportunity to spend four transformative months studying at Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona. I enrolled in classes for my major and minor, significantly enhancing my academic and professional skills.

Beyond the classroom, my journey was filled with amazing cultural experiences as I traveled to 11 countries and over 50 cities. Each location offered unique insights and unforgettable memories. From Germany to Ireland, Morocco, and Iceland, every place broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation for our incredible world.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey was meeting so many remarkable people from all over the world. Their stories and perspectives enriched my understanding of the global community and fostered lasting connections. The study abroad experience deeply influenced my personal and professional growth, reinforcing the importance of staying curious, being open-minded, and forging global connections.

I want to thank the Rucks Family and the LSU E.  J. Ourso College of Business, Rucks Department of Management. Your generous support was invaluable in making this journey a reality, and I am profoundly grateful."

Paige Snyder explores Rome during her time in Europe. Here she is photographed at the forum
Paige Snyder took the opportunity to explore more than 50 cities, including Rome, during her study abroad experience. 

 

 

About the Rucks International Scholars Awards

The Rucks Department of Management periodically emails management majors to inform them of the availability of study-abroad support. To apply, students write a letter of application to the department chair that includes: 

  • A description of where they are going to study as well as a description of the course(s)/program in which they will be enrolled.
  • An estimate of the cost of round-trip airfare to the location where the course(s)/program is being held.
  • A description of how the study abroad experience will enhance their management education and their future careers. 

INQUIRE ABOUT THE RUCKS INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARD