Marketing Management honours students had the unique opportunity to collaborate with a group of students from Rutgers University, USA, who attended the Marketing of Services lecture on 16 March 2017.

In a rather unusual classroom setting, namely at ‘Uitspan’ at the LC de Villiers sports grounds, the Dean of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, Prof Elsabé Loots, welcomed the visitors and gave a brief background on the study abroad tour which the Rutgers students participated in.

During class, the two student groups were divided into six discussion teams with members from both institutions. The aim of the class was to get the two groups to collaborate on a case study about banking systems. With a combination of MBA and undergraduate students, the students had the opportunity to share their ideas and analysis of the case. One of the students noted that bringing many different cultures together may seem daunting, but the insights gained from these interactions were priceless. Another said: “We were enormously lucky to have them here so we could also gain a different perspective and broaden our understanding of international business.” Another student noted: “This is what marketing is all about – networking”.

An MBA student from Rutgers University facilitated the discussions in each team. Different perspectives and views on the case was shared, which contributed to the learning experience.

An international discussion group consisting of both Rutgers and UP students.

The theme of the case was one that all could relate to and the discussions naturally led to how the banking systems of the two countries differed and how they were similar in many ways. Both formal and informal learning occurred during these discussions. This was followed by a typical South African braai, where our students took the lead to explain what our visitors were enjoying for dinner. The night ended with debate on current affairs and a chance to get to know each other over some delicious food. It was a great experience where knowledge, culture and opinions were shared.

A group consisting of both Rutgers and UP students.

An international discussion group consisting of both Rutgers and UP students.