How IISMA Awardee Jolanda Gained Global Business Insights at University of Otago
Monday, January 13, 2025 — Jolanda Grace Kurniawan, an International Business Management student from i3L’s 2022 cohort, followed an exciting path by participating in a transformative exchange program at the University of Otago. As an IISMA awardee, Jolanda embraced this opportunity to enhance her academic journey. Through a diverse range of courses, she actively bridged academic theories with real-world applications, gaining a comprehensive and hands-on understanding of business management in a global context.
Exploring Marine Systems and Sustainability
One of Jolanda’s most enlightening experiences was the Marine Biology course, which introduced her to the complex interactions within marine ecosystems. She explored topics such as ocean climate variability, biodiversity, and challenges like ocean acidification. Her learning was enriched through hands-on experiences, including laboratory practices and field trips on the university’s research vessel, Polaris II. The course emphasized the importance of sustainable practices and conservation efforts, highlighting how human activities like overfishing and pollution impact marine life. These insights inspired Jolanda to view sustainability as a crucial component of business practices.
Building Essential Management Skills
The Managing for Performance course offered Jolanda a comprehensive understanding of management principles and their application in various organizational contexts. She explored key themes such as leadership, motivation, and communication strategies. Collaborative exercises and workshops helped her develop essential management skills, including teamwork and decision-making. This foundation has equipped her with the tools necessary to enhance organizational effectiveness, an essential skill for a successful future in international business.
Mastering Marketing Strategies
In the Marketing course, Jolanda delved into fundamental marketing concepts and the role of digital strategies in today’s business environment. She gained practical insights into consumer behavior, market research, and pricing strategies. Through projects like developing a marketing plan for a new product, Jolanda gained hands-on experience in crafting innovative strategies tailored to specific markets. This course solidified her understanding of how data-driven decision-making and creative messaging can drive business success.
Understanding Business and Society
The Business and Society course explored the intersection of business practices and societal impact, with a focus on corporate social responsibility. One of the most memorable sessions focused on the Māori economy, demonstrating the importance of cultural diversity in shaping sustainable business practices. This course broadened Jolanda’s perspective on how businesses can operate ethically and contribute positively to society. Through assignments and group projects, she honed her critical thinking and analytical skills, which are essential for navigating the complexities of the global business environment.
Key Takeaways for Future Success
Jolanda’s exchange experience at the University of Otago provided her with a holistic perspective on how businesses can balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility. These courses not only deepened her academic knowledge but also equipped her with practical skills and a global mindset. As an International Business Management student at i3L, she is committed to applying these insights to foster sustainable and ethical business practices, contributing positively to the global economy.
