Haas’ Sustainability Summer In Geneva

Students at the study abroad program's Welcome Picnic

Students at the study abroad program’s Welcome Picnic

They’ve made time for more exciting things, too. Iruvanti went to Italy over the Fourth of July weekend, and Garrett tried paragliding, which she says was an amazing and beautiful experience — though she probably won’t do it again since she got a little motion sick.

Exploring a new city is a bonus. The program itself is the real reward, Garrett and Iruvanti say. They chose it because they’re interested in sustainable business. “I think studying abroad in Geneva is one of the best ways to learn about sustainability in business,” Iruvanti says. “It’s one thing to sit in a classroom or read a book, and it’s another to learn about it in person.” The learning experience has been so inspiring, he says, that a lot of his fellow students are thinking about working in sustainability now.

Garrett agreed that the hands-on experiences and trips to various companies are really special. “You get to see where the business is taking place, and the people behind it,” she says. “It’s interesting to go behind the scenes.”

PROGRAM EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

Rochlin says the program has exceeded his expectations, particularly concerning the willingness of corporations, foundations, and NGOs to engage with his students. He says he was delighted by their openness and honesty about how they think about environmental issues.

“I’m really pleased, because we really wanted to immerse ourselves,” he says. “I think many of my students are really interested in understanding the role of businesses and businesspeople around the world. They’ve been very open and interested in understanding different viewpoints.”

Rochlin says he sees business as a potential force for positive change, and he finds it really exciting to learn about the different ways that might take place and about the limitations businesses face. He hopes his students are thinking about how they can create solutions in the future that will allow both businesses and the wider environment to thrive.

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