What motivated you to take this course?
During my time at Penn, my interests in emerging markets, capital structures, and ESG have grown significantly. This curiosity expanded during my semester abroad in Singapore, where I was exposed to the dynamic business environment of Southeast Asia. Seeking to deepen my understanding further, especially in my final year, I was drawn to the Finance in the UAE GMC as it provided an excellent opportunity to explore a rapidly growing region. I was particularly interested in understanding the pivotal role the UAE plays in both the regional and global economy, its efforts to diversify beyond oil, and its new-age strategies being implemented in the region.
How did the course enhance your learning?
Instead of learning concepts theoretically, we had the chance to apply them in real-world scenarios under specific cases. For instance, discussions about the implications of free zones in Dubai felt more tangible when we were actually sitting in one. Working on finance projects in the UAE provided hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of financial markets in the region. Being taught by Professor Kevin Kaiser, whose expertise is unmatched, provided valuable insights that went beyond textbook knowledge. This immersive experience not only deepened my understanding but also challenged me to question and formulate my own educated opinion about what we were hearing and seeing.
Could you share a memorable experience?
One memorable experience was speaking to alumni at the Abu Dhabi Louvre. Whenever anyone reflects on their time at Wharton, they often say that the best experience is the people they meet and I definitely agree. We have such a great alumni pool, and while on the GMC, we connected with local alumni in the area, many of whom are prominent figures in their industries. Hearing about their experiences and career trajectories was incredibly inspiring. It was fascinating to learn about how they navigate the complexities of less mature financial markets or how they decided to innovate and become entrepreneurs. This experience not only broadened my professional network but also gave me insights into alternative paths available.
What was surprising or unusual about the experience?
One of the most unusual aspects of the experience was the opportunity to connect with MBA students during the course. As an undergraduate student, I don’t typically have these interactions, but they turned out to be incredibly rewarding. Simply spending time with them on the bus between sight visits or over lunch allowed me to learn from their experiences, and they even helped me decide between two job offers.
Did this experience influence your perspective on global business practices?
Through visits to local businesses and interactions with industry leaders, I gained a deeper understanding of how cultural factors might influence business practices in the region. For example, the emphasis on hospitality and relationship-building in UAE business culture was evident in our every interaction. Additionally, discussions on social issues such as gender equality and immigration caused by different conflicts in the region shed light on the challenges and opportunities they are facing. Yet, witnessing the efforts being made to address these issues also highlighted the interconnectedness of business and social responsibility.
How might you use the knowledge gained from this course?
In the age of globalization, it’s crucial to understand the interconnectedness of our world. This course deeply enhanced my understanding in both technical and soft terms. I learned about emerging economies like the UAE and how they seize opportunities, attract talent, and differentiate themselves while also maintaining partnerships. Learning how they used their culture and history to implement solutions, which can be applied as case studies in other emerging markets, such as Latin America, was invaluable. These insights will be invaluable as I pursue my academic and professional goals, bridging my background in BEPP with the world of finance.
What advice would you give to students interested in GMCs?
These courses offer a unique chance to gain practical experience and build invaluable connections. Reach out to students who have taken the course for advice and definitely plan to stay a day or two before or after the course to explore the region further, as it offers a deeper cultural understanding and networking opportunities.
—Sara Hoover
Posted: September 3, 2024
