challenges into the learning environment and deepening students’ insight into the strategic manoeuvres of top-tier companies. An intensive week The summer school’s intensive week is where theory meets practice amid a fusion of cultural and professional diversity. The cohort of 30 to 35 students is divided into smaller teams, again based on maintaining a diversity of professional background, gender and nationality in each. The journey begins with a welcome breakfast and tour of the Uqam campus, before an introductory session delves into the course topics. Day one ends with students formulating strategic questions for corporate executives to clarify their understanding of the business case at hand. Networking is a key component of the week, with a lunch and a cocktail reception organised to facilitate meaningful connections among participants, faculty, Montreal peers, school authorities and programme partners. On the second day, the students visit the company’s facilities, accompanied by the professor and the EMBA administrative team. A guided tour paves the way for interactions and discussions with senior executives involved in the project, followed by another opportunity for networking over lunch. The afternoon is dedicated to a theoretical session held at the company, where students delve deeper into the speci c challenges and central issues their teams will address. As the week progresses, a typical day starts at 8am and stretches late into the night, with students oscillating between learning theoretical frameworks and applying them to the practical case study at hand. This rigorous schedule culminates on Saturday with a plenary session, where each team presents their analysis and recommendations to a panel of corporate executives. This is followed by a Q&A session, sparking discussions that often extend beyond the con nes of the classroom. The week then concludes with a nal networking lunch, providing one last chance for students to consolidate the relationships they’ve built and re ect on their intensive learning experience. Leveraging difference ESG-Uqam’s EMBA summer school o ers evidence of the power of diversity, with students from around the globe coming together to sharpen their skills in the crucible of real business problems. This setting
is not only about learning to navigate the nuances of international business, but also thriving within them. The course’s structure enables participants to immerse themselves in an international and multicultural context, which is instrumental in honing their interpersonal skills. By working closely with individuals from di erent cultural backgrounds, students learn the importance of communication, adaptability and cultural sensitivity – skills that are increasingly valuable in today’s globalised business environment. As mentioned, the emphasis on diversity extends to that of professional experiences and perspectives. This enriches the problem-solving process further, as each participant brings unique insights and strategies to the table. As they work through the week’s challenges, students not only develop a stronger analytical acumen but also re ne their ability to collaborate and lead within a diverse team. In addition, the course challenges participants to operate in unstructured contexts, mirroring the reality of the business world where not all variables are controllable. This approach teaches resilience and exibility, as students learn to manage ambiguity and make decisive, informed decisions under pressure.
20 Business Impact ISSUE 4 2023
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