GDI Student – Korean Company, Class of Spring 2021 (Medical Device)
Joining the Global Development Initiative program this semester has been an experience and decision that has allowed me to not only learn but apply the knowledge gained from my classes. Alongside my team, we were able to provide our client Company with market entry strategies and conduct market research, and we were able to obtain a closer, in-depth look into the healthcare industry. Not only did my team members and I provide an in-depth market analysis and market entry strategies to our Company, but we were able to receive international experience which is incredibly invaluable. Being able to learn about different cultures and communication styles throughout the semester is what ultimately allowed us as a team to communicate effectively. Being in an international setting also calls for late nights or early mornings to meet with our Company at a time that works for everyone. Throughout the internship, I learned a few key lessons. One, is the importance of communication, not only with the company but within my team. Understanding that not everyone has the same communication style is crucial to acknowledge, and being able to adapt to where you can communicate effectively is a powerful skill. I also learned the importance of realizing that you will never know everything about a subject, there is always more research to be done. Knowledge is an area to be built upon, and it is okay to acknowledge that you do not know the answer to a question, and then research to reach the answer. The final key lesson is that there will always be challenges in the workplace – it is inevitable. It is how one approaches and confronts these challenges that will determine how much one grows as a result.
To my group members thank you for your motivation and ambition to always go forward. Although we have not met in person yet, I can confidently say that you both have great strengths and a work ethic that will take you far. Thank you to our mentor . . . . who has guided us continuously, provided feedback, and given so much of her time throughout this semester, our team truly appreciates it. Many thanks to the overall administrative team. you all have been incredible in terms of mentorship, organization, and leadership throughout this semester, going above and beyond to make this a rewarding experience for all students.
GDI Student – Republic of Korea Company, Class of Fall 2020 (Medical Devices)
One of the most formative experiences I had in college was working as a part of the Global Development Initiative. GDI is a program where students conduct market research on foreign small and medium enterprises looking to expand their businesses in Texas. I first came across the program in my freshman year and was immediately intrigued by the chance to interact with clients from around the world.
GDI Student – Canadian Company, Class of Fall 2020 (Renewable Energy)
We have conducted market research with the GDI program to help an overseas partner company, to establish a business in the U.S. Through this three-month-long program, not only for the oil & gas industry, but we also gained knowledge for the landfills, telecom, and agriculture industries. I am grateful to be part of the GDI program. Thank you to the University of Texas at Dallas, Center for Global Business for the learning opportunities and support to complete the materials. I discovered so much about the industries in Texas that I did not know about before.
GDI Student – Swedish Company, Class of Spring 2022 (Rural Broadband Development)
Thank you, Mr. Howorth! And I also want to say thank you for all the help and opportunity you provided me during the Global Development Initiative in 2022. That experience has been priceless during my job interviews as it gave me first-hand involvement working on data procurement and consultation. It was always a talking point and helped me get my current job at Murphy Oil Corporation, so I truly appreciate what you and Professor Zydorek did for us during that course! Thank You!
GDI Student – Swedish Company, Class of Spring 2021 (Building Sensors, Internet of Things)
Worked as the Project Lead of the GDI program, we have learned to provide insightful research concerning market analysis, entry strategies, and industry channels for an international IoT solutions company. I learned valuable skills relating to managerial operations, team coordination, project coordination, and creating a productive environment for my team and company. I utilized all facades of my college education concerning disciplines of marketing, HR management, managerial accounting, business models and strategies, finance, organizational behavior, and international business.
GDI Student – Swedish Company, Class of Spring 2022 (Rural Broadband Development)
I am extremely pleased that I was able to participate in the Global Development Initiative (GDI) internship program. For me, the experience was wonderful and enlightening in many ways. Having to meet mentors and interns who have their distinct individuality, but share a similar cooperative motivation was a first for me. There was never a lack of moments in our collaborations, whether we were serious about accomplishing our goals or laughing about random topics that I would have never expected to appear.
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