Retailing in Brazil—Summer 2013 Academic Internship
LAS6905/4905
GEB6930/MAR4956
With its economy booming in recent years, Brazil has joined China, India, and Russia as one of the leading emerging markets in the global economy. Today more than ever international companies are looking for business graduates who understand the Brazilian market and are familiar with the language and culture of Latin America’s largest country.
The Retailing in Brazil Academic Internship program is a 4 credit course consisting of an online pre-departure module and a hands-on experience through work in a Brazilian company or business association.
Through the Academic Internship students will have the opportunity to…
–Apply academic knowledge through a hands-on experience
–Learn how to adapt in a new culture while working on a project in a foreign country
–Expand their professional network internationally
–Gain exposure to new perspectives and ideas
The combination of online coursework, homestay, and a hands-on work experience provide the foundation for students to achieve professional and personal growth to be successful in the global workplace.
Summer A: 6 week program with a 4 week non-paid internship placement. Up to 4 credits.
May 13–June 21.
Pre-requisites: Graduate business student or other related discipline (advanced undergraduates with approval), 3.0 GPA, faculty recommendation, prior work/internship experience.
Placement: Student interview about interests, skills, and experience to match with Brazilian firm and their needs. (We will try to match student interests to company as much as possible.)
Academic Component: Online coursework, final project based on company assignment
Housing: Homestay with Brazilian family or university residence
Pre-departure Orientation: Orientation on campus (virtually for non-UF students) covering program expectations and cross-cultural preparation. Host city orientation includes city tour, tips on safety, and using public transportation.
Local Support: Faculty advisor support from local partner institution, student "buddy" from partner academic institution to take students on cultural excursions, and assistance from partner international center.
Language: Portuguese would be helpful. Optional language courses available.
Career Connections: Assistance in developing professional networks and participating in industry association events.
Industry Placements: Can be in a franchise or major retailing firm, chamber of commerce, or other industry association.
Possible 2013 Program Locations: Curitiba-PUCPR, Fortaleza-CDL (tentative)
Possible Retailing Topics for Research: Marketing, Logistics, Consumer Behavior, Advertising, etc.
Course/Program Sponsored by:
David F. Miller Center for Retailing Education and Research at the University of Florida
http://warrington.ufl.edu/centers/retailcenter
University of Florida Center for Latin American Studies
http://www.latam.ufl.edu
Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER) at the University of Florida
http://www.cba.ufl.edu/ciber
