During the last two weeks of July, we welcomed a group of MBA students from Luxembourg to campus to participate in the cross-campus CONNECTIONS program. The group consisted of 10 Luxembourg students and two spouses, who were joined by five local students. A total of 12 different nationalities were represented in the group of 15 students.
In addition to their on-campus classes, the students took several field trips. Highlights included a sightseeing trip to New York City with a visit to the New York Stock Exchange; a VIP tour of Sikorsky Aircraft in Stratford (arranged by Sikorsky Chief Counsel Peter Graber-Lipperman, who is affiliated with the Welch College ofBusiness) that included a meeting with a vice president of Marketing and the head helicopter test pilot; and a trip to IBM’s Industry Solutions Lab in Westchester County. While at IBM, the group met Watson, the super computer that successfully competed against Jeopardy! champion Ken Jennings. They learned that IBM is working on a version of the computer that will help physicians to diagnose symptoms more successfully and quickly.
The students also participated in several social events and had opportunities to sightsee, dine and shop around the state, courtesy of local students and staff. It was a wonderful experience for all involved, and lifelong friendships were made.
Our student-athletes who play fall sports are arriving back on campus. The majority of them should be here by the end of the weekend. I wish them great workouts, teamwork and camaraderie as they prepare for their upcoming seasons. Go Pioneers!
If you haven’t yet checked out the faculty and staff lunches in the Hearth Room in the McMahon Commons, I strongly recommend that you do. It’s been great to see so many of you take advantage of the opportunity to mingle and catch up with colleagues in such an enjoyable setting. The big tables lend themselves to a community meal, and the price is certainly right. The great variety and selection of food means there is something for everybody. No matter where you are located, it’s worth the effort to come by for a delicious mid-day meal.
Enjoy the weekend!
