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When a team of ������ý��Ƶ students traveled to St. Louis for the , they weren’t just representing ������ý��Ƶ, they were putting their classroom knowledge into action on a global stage. (Pictured from left to right: Andre Isola, Jim Foley, Ethan Ringa, Emma Magee, Ella Wight.)

“It was an incredible experience to take what we’ve learned and apply it to a real-world international business challenge,” senior International Business major Andre Isola said. The competition provides students the opportunity to work collaboratively on a creative solution for a real-world international business challenge.

Isola and his teammates—freshman Management & Leadership major Ethan Ringa, junior Accounting major Ella Wight, and junior Marketing major Emma Magee—were tasked with developing an export strategy for , a craft distillery looking to expand its bourbon into international markets. The case required students to analyze global market opportunities, navigate trade considerations, and present a strategic plan to industry professionals.

“This presented unique challenges, particularly since most of our team are not of legal drinking age,” admitted Wight. “Despite these obstacles, we remained resilient and committed.”

Although the team did not take home the top prize, Wight said the experience itself was a win. “This experience has been invaluable learning about international trade and exports, collaborating with my team over several weeks, presenting our proposal to the CEO of Switchgrass Spirits, and engaging with industry professionals and peers. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this process.”

“Competitions like this push you to think critically and collaborate in ways that mirror real business environments,” Isola added.

Beyond the competition, the trip offered something just as valuable: Connection. “We had the opportunity to connect with students and professionals in international business, which made the experience so much more meaningful,” Isola said. “Those conversations gave us insight into the industry and helped us see where this field can take us.”

The team members also credit their advisor, Jim Foley, for his guidance and mentorship along the way.

“Experiences like this continue to remind me why I chose to study international business,” Isola explained. “It’s exciting to see how what we’re learning can translate into real-world impact.”

Through competitions like NASBITE, ������ý��Ƶ students continue to gain hands-on experience, build professional networks, and prepare for careers in an increasingly global economy.

—Emily Potts