Tag: Grenoble

The two courses that I enjoyed the most while studying in France were Serious Games taught by Helene Mitchel and Design Thinking taught by Jose Gotsch. Both of these involved hands-on, engaging activities that included giant Rubik’s cubes, Legos, and classic craft materials like construction paper and glue sticks. Aside from the intellectual aspects of these classes, it was refreshing to create a tangible item, something that is uncommon in most graduate level business courses. These sessions forced students to take an active role in creating innovative ideas and designs that could solve problems faced by businesses or students of the classes. I left these classes with a deep appreciation for the creativity required to find unique, innovative ideas, as well as the detail needed to ensure the ideas are practical.

The site visits to companies in Grenoble provided a glimpse into how the principles learned during the class sessions play out in the real world. We met with leaders of two separate companies on different days. Both companies operated in the technology industry and stressed the difficulties they faced and the need to turn research and prototypes into products that meet consumers’ needs and wants. This helped drive home the applicability of the lessons learned in our classes. 

Through these classes, site visits, and GEM coordinated cultural activities, all of us students came into contact with the local French citizens on a daily basis. Although it may seem obvious to study the local language before traveling to a foreign country, I had not taken enough time prior to the trip to study the basics of French.  Fortunately for me, the citizens of Grenoble are friendly, and most speak some English.

Aside from the academics, the food in France is outstanding. We ended the program with a dinner at a prominent restaurant specializing in French cuisine. This dinner featured local products such as wines, cheeses, and walnuts, which Grenoble is known for producing. This was my favorite meal of the entire trip. Through it all, the students from George Washington University, University of North Carolina (UNC), and Duke University became close friends. A few other students from UNC and I even ended this study abroad trip by renting a car together and heading to Geneva for a brief tour before returning home.

I can’t stress how highly I would recommend this program to students considering participating in a Short Term Study Away Program. I can’t think of a more rewarding and exciting way to spend the winter break between semesters. This trip certainly won’t be the last time that I visit France.

Written by Matthew Rodgers, MS. International Business '21

The following morning marked day one of classes at Grenoble Ecole De Management. Orientation was led Carole Gally, an advisor at the school who is incredibly kind and knowledgeable. During this orientation we learned about the school, the city of Grenoble, French culture, and the French language. While discussing French culture, Ms. Gally went into detail on the strikes that are taking place across France. Fortunately, it sounded like I was the only student who had issues on the way into France. During orientation the students from George Washington University, Duke University and University of North Carolina introduced ourselves and quickly became friends over lunch. We ended the day with a short French lesson, practicing basic phrases like how to order a sandwich or to simply say “I don’t know French.” I could have used both of these phrases multiple times during the previous day!

Yesterday was our first excursion as a group, traveling to Courchevel Ski Resort in the French Alps. We rose before the sun was up to hop on a bus and drive the two hours into the mountains, well above the tree line. Everyone was sleepy on the morning drive but quickly perked up as soon as the tips of the mountains came into view. We were extremely lucky to have clear blue skies and a bright sun all day. Ms. Gally, her husband, and her son generously agreed to be our guides for the day, taking us to every corner of the mountain. The slopes were pristine and covered in powdery snow that was well maintained. After six hours of non-stop skiing and snowboarding, we were all completely drained of energy but filled with joy. We rounded out the night with dinner at a restaurant in the town below the slopes. The food was excellent, and the dessert was delicious. I have yet to find any food in France that hasn’t been fantastic. This upcoming week promises to be one filled with more adventures and more fine French cuisine. I’m looking forward to the week ahead!

Written by Matthew Rodgers, MS. International Business '21

Looking back on my time in college, my biggest regret is not taking advantage of the opportunity to study abroad. This opportunity to travel to France is an experience that I’ve been looking forward to for years. Aside from the goals mentioned above, there are several other general experiences that I hope to take away from this program. I want to experience first-hand what it’s like to study in a foreign country. I’m enthusiastic about meeting other students both from GW and from other universities. I hope to get to know city of Grenoble and all that is has to offer. In particular, I plan on eating as much French food as possible. Most of all, I simply hope to learn and grow while studying at the Grenoble School of Management.

I’m grateful that GW offers these shorter study abroad programs. This 10 day trip fits perfectly with my schedule. As someone who works full-time and attends GW as a part time student, it’s unlikely that I’d be able to study abroad were it not for the STAP programs.