Berlin Bound

Department of Management & Leadership Chair Steve Werner and Professor Je’Anna Abbott are leading the living-learning experience, which focuses on the differences in human resource management in other countries and how the legal environment influences company culture. 

With Germany at the heart of the European Union, one of the most influential regulatory environments in the world, Berlin is the ideal location for this academic excursion, Abbott said. Decisions made there affect how companies hire, manage data and compete globally, she added.  

"This trip is educational as much as it is enjoyable,” Werner said. “It exposes students to different laws and the impact that has on employment. At the same time, they build relationships with their classmates and network with these international companies.” 

The learning abroad program has a history of placing students in jobs overseas, Werner added. For some, it is their first time traveling to Europe and the experience is so life-changing, they decide to live and work there.  

 For Office of Undergraduate Business Programs Assistant Director of Student Engagement Jorge Arellano (BBA ‘14), he took what he learned in Berlin and brought it back to Houston.  

He participated in the learning abroad trip as an elective when he was completing his master’s in education. Throughout the week, he and his cohort explored the historical landmarks of the city. During company site visits, they spoke with CEOs and HR representatives who shared details of their culture and values. 

“Something they really emphasized was the care they had for their employees,” Arellano said. “One of the most crucial responsibilities we have in management is taking care of our people.”