This summer, the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University welcomed 57 outstanding high school students—selected from a pool of more than 200 applicants—for Business Is Global (BIG) 2025. This immersive, two-week residential program is designed to broaden students’ understanding of the world through language learning, cultural exploration, and the fundamentals of international business.
Led by IU’s Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER), BIG 2025 once again proved how transformative early global education can be. Students called the program “eye-opening,” “transformational,” and “one of the best experiences I’ve had.”
Business Is Global students explore Korean culture by learning to play the gayageum, a traditional string instrument, during an interactive language and culture session.
A global learning experience
Students explored four less commonly taught languages—Arabic, Brazilian Portuguese, Estonian, and Korean—paired with culture sessions that introduced them to customs, food, traditions, and business etiquette from each region. For many, it was their first direct experience with these parts of the world—and for some, the beginning of a deeper passion.
“I learned that Asian cultures/languages deeply interest me.”
These early encounters sparked curiosity and a broader worldview. As one student reflected:
“I would recommend this program as it opens your eyes to the world, and you learn so much about culture and languages in the business world.”
BIG helped students see how cultural understanding isn’t just important—it’s essential for building meaningful global connections.
PHOTO: “Business Is Global students explore Korean culture by learning to play the gayageum, a traditional string instrument, during an interactive language and culture session.”
Building business skills for the global marketplace
Students also engaged in business fundamentals rooted in Kelley’s internationally respected undergraduate curriculum. Beginning with Introduction to Business, they examined key areas such as finance, marketing, operations, and management—learning how companies compete and operate internationally. In Business Communication, they explored how tone and context shape cross-cultural messaging, while sessions on AI in marketing opened their eyes to how technology is transforming global strategy.
“Business Is Global is a great introduction to all aspects of business and various cultures. I loved how the business classes dove into the key subsections of business and gave students a basic understanding of what it’s all about.”
One student put it best when asked how cross-cultural skills impact business:
“All aspects of business can be enhanced by cross-cultural skills—whether it’s branding, understanding when and how to engage, using local language or slang, or simply wanting to connect more deeply with the culture.”
Bringing it all together: The team projects
Students in BIG 2025 collaborate on a team project, researching global snacks and cities to develop business plans that blend culture, strategy, and entrepreneurship
A highlight of BIG 2025 was the team project. Each team was assigned a country and challenged to develop a business plan to market a culturally significant treat in an international city. Using the Business Model Canvas, they addressed pricing, customer relationships, operations, and cultural strategy.
“[The team project] not only helped me understand international business in a hands-on way, but it also allowed me to collaborate with my team and connect through something unique.”
Students presented their projects to a panel of IU faculty, alumni, and Indiana business professionals. Their ideas showed thoughtful research, creativity, and a real understanding of how culture shapes business success.
“I learned that collaboration is a huge part of success, that language and culture enhance business and understanding, and that it’s important to take risks and explore new things.”
The BIG impact—and what comes next
Again and again, students described BIG as one of the most meaningful experiences of their lives. The program helped them build confidence, practice teamwork, and imagine new possibilities for their futures.
BIG 2025 by the numbers: High school students from 18 states participated in two weeks of immersive learning, team projects, and professional networking
“From the classes to the people, it had everything I could have asked for and more. It gave me a sense of college life and introduced me to people I would’ve never met otherwise.”
“Not only did I learn about culture, language, and business—I learned about myself too.”
But while BIG’s impact is undeniable, its future is uncertain. The 2025 session may be the final one supported through current CIBER funding. To ensure that this life-changing program continues, we need new partners and supporters.
Help sustain BIG
Business Is Global prepares students to understand the world—and shape it. If you believe in the power of language, culture, and business to build global understanding, we invite you to help keep the program alive.
Ways to support BIG:
- Make a gift to support instruction, scholarships, and operations
- Partner with us by offering mentorship, internships, or guest lectures
- Share this story with others who care about preparing the next generation of global leaders
With your support, Business Is Global can continue to inspire, educate, and empower young leaders ready to thrive in a connected world.
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