Lehigh in Vietnam and Singapore

Over winter break 2018, 16 seniors from the College of Business and Economics traveled to Vietnam and Singapore as part of Lehigh’s Global Initiative to apply their knowledge from the classroom to real-world international business operations.

Students spent two weeks touring the countries, visiting companies such as Motul, a French lubricant manufacturer, and Temasek Holdings, based in Singapore. The contrast of developing businesses in Vietnam and more stable businesses in Singapore also gave students a firsthand glimpse at how the two nations operate.

When students took a break from learning from business leaders, they made trips to various cultural sites to gain an understanding of the local history and culture. The group visited areas like the Cu Chi tunnels used during the Vietnam War and both Daoist and Buddhist temples.

Program leader Charles Stevens, associate professor of management, said the trip gives students a unique opportunity to expand their personal and professional networks, as well as develop close relationships with classmates.

“One of the biggest things they get is the opportunity to interact with very high-level people,” said Stevens, “and ... pick their brains.”

The next trip will take place from Jan. 4-19, 2019.

Story by Sam Topp '19