MIB Student Spotlight: Grishma Patel
Grishma Patel is graduating from the Master of International Business (MIB) program this summer. Currently, she is gaining experience in international business by studying abroad.
Q: What is your background?
Patel: “My name is Grishma Patel and I was born in Navsari, India. I was very fortunate to get the opportunity to move to Gainesville, Florida with my family at the age of six. My parents worked endless hours to provide my brother and I with the best lifestyle. They’ve taught me to always persevere and always strive for the best in any educational, professional and social setting. I take pride in both the Indian and American culture because it has been the foundation of the person I am today. I love spending time with my family and friends, trying new food, dancing and soaking up the sun.
“I graduated from Gainesville High School, and I earned my bachelor’s degree at UF in business administration with a concentration in communication and leadership development. I am happy to have continued my education as an MIB student at UF.”
Q: Why did you join the MIB program?
Patel: “I chose to join the MIB program because I have always been interested in learning about international business. After finishing my undergrad in business administration, I felt that it would be beneficial to narrow down my interests within the business world. The curriculum for the MIB program is very versatile and it has allowed me to not only learn about international business, but also deepen my knowledge within the marketing field. I like that I can take classes at my own pace and that I have options of what courses I’d like to take, instead of having a predetermined set of classes. This program gave me the understanding of what I would like to do in my career, and it’s given me the chance the meet amazing people!”
Q: Tell us about your experience studying abroad.
Patel: “I’ve had the amazing opportunity of studying abroad at the Wirtschafts Universitat – the University of Economics and Business in Vienna, Austria. From meeting new people to embracing a new culture, my study abroad trip has been nothing short of incredible. In a duration of three weeks, I am taking two courses highlighting sustainability and leadership. We get to visit companies within Vienna and it is an eye-opening experience on how business is conducted here. Alongside my classes, my program has created social activities that we get to participate in such as hiking at vineyards and participating in a Waltz dancing class. The best part of studying abroad has been meeting new people and discovering Austria with them. I’m thankful for each person I have met because they taught me something new about their culture and where they’re from. And, of course, I can’t forget to mention how much I get to travel and discover! Studying abroad allows me to travel within Austria, and to travel to other countries in Europe. I truly recommend studying abroad to everyone because it is a life changing experience that helps you grow in your personal and professional life.”
Q: What are you career plans after graduation?
Patel: “Currently, I am actively searching for a job within the marketing, consulting and hospitality industry. I would love to work in the airline industry in the sustainability, marketing or hospitality sector.”
Q: Any advice for incoming MIB students?
Patel: “My two pieces of advice for incoming MIB students are to get involved and be genuine. I know everyone tends to say that you should get involved, but it really does make a huge difference in your time in the program. I involved myself by becoming a Hough Ambassador, which gave me the opportunity to make a difference within our college and our program. It provided me a space to be creative and participate in events that would enhance my social and professional skills. I also have met some of the most amazing people by becoming an ambassador! Being an ambassador and a Hough Career Fellow allowed me to expand my network and to put myself out there. It’s like the saying, ‘you get out what you put in.’ The more you strive to put yourself out there, make connections and get involved, the more opportunities will come your way. It may sound cliche, but these are the people who are going to help you succeed and get to where you want to be in the future. My second piece of advice is to be genuine. Make your experience in this program genuine by building meaningful friendships and making genuine connections with recruiters and staff. Allow yourself to fully immerse in the program to open opportunities where you least expect them.”
Q: Please share a cool fact about yourself.
Patel: “I was co-captain of Gator Garba during my senior year of undergrad at UF! It’s a collegiate dance team focused on traditional/fusion dancing.”
