Off to Yale: UBC Sauder graduate students embrace a global learning opportunity

After spending an unforgettable week at the Yale School of Management, UBC Professional Master of Business Administration (PMBA) student Yvonne Htun (left) and 2024 graduate Elena Topchiy (right) are putting their new knowledge to work. They were able to take the highly coveted course because both Yale and the UBC Sauder School of Business are members of the Global Network for Advanced Management (GNAM), a collaboration of 32 business schools that provide students with international learning opportunities.

Participating in Global Network Week

Elena Topchiy (PhD) is a Senior Analyst of Portfolio Strategy for biotech company, Zymeworks. The UBC PMBA (’24) graduate embraced the opportunity to study at an international business school during the final term of her two-year program. Scanning the list of courses offered through GNAM, she was curious about a course called Behavioural Science of Management, taught by a team of prominent professors at Yale University.

“When I saw that course I thought, I’ve got to go,” says Elena. “There are a lot of factors to consider when picking a GNAM experience. It’s not just about the location and the school, it’s also about the course, who’s teaching it, and how the subject matter fits with your professional interests. For me, the school and the specific course mattered more than the destination.” 

Experiencing student life at one of America’s top colleges

Yvonne Htun is in her second year of the UBC PMBA program and works as a Value Advisor for the German software company, SAP. She chose the Behavioural Science of Management course because she’s always been curious about Ivy League institutions. 

“I wanted to go to Yale to see what it would be like to be a student at such a prestigious school,” says Yvonne. “I was also interested in the subject matter and when I saw that the professors teaching the course are world-renowned in their fields of academic research, I was determined to go.”

Maximizing the opportunity to learn in an international classroom

Elena and Yvonne traveled to New Haven, Connecticut in March to take the course. There they met students from the United States as well as 15 other countries. 

“I would describe the course as a buffet,” says Elena. “We had a different professor every day, and we got a sample size of various subjects within the field of Behavioural Science of Management. One day was Understanding Consumer Experiences, another day was Negotiation, and another day was all about the science behind behavioral finance.” 

Yvonne enjoyed the social interactions with her classmates as much as the academic material.

“It was a full day of classes, so it was very intense, but we still had some time to get to know one another and build some connections. I really enjoyed working in smaller groups because it gave us a chance to learn about each other’s countries, cultures and business practices.”

Yvonne began applying what she learned as soon as she got back to the office.

"I learned the importance of framing problems accurately and gathering input from all the stakeholders involved before formal discussions take place. By doing so, you can harness the collective intelligence of everyone involved, ensuring that all great ideas are heard and considered. This practice not only enhances the quality of solutions, but also fosters a more collaborative and inclusive work environment."

Enrolling in a local GNAM course   

Before her Yale experience, Elena took a GNAM course on Impact Investing offered by UBC Sauder. She connected with business students from around the world and expanded her professional network without having to leave Vancouver. 

“It was an unbelievable experience,” says Elena. “I didn’t know how advanced UBC is in the sustainability space and how Vancouver is recognized globally as a hub for green investment. After taking that course, I told my classmates that a local global learning opportunity is an excellent option if you don’t have the funds to travel but want to immerse yourself in a diverse peer network and learn something impactful.”

Taking a chance and seeing the world

International travel not just available to UBC Sauder graduate students; Commerce students have their own global learning opportunities. According to Yvonne, studying abroad is one of the best parts of higher education. 

“People tend to get very comfortable in Vancouver, but it’s always good to take a risk and be adventurous. When I see that someone has international exposure and experience, it gives me an indication that they are more open-minded, curious about the world, and culturally aware.”

Elena agrees that gaining international experience can open the door to new possibilities.

“Spending time in a foreign country breaks the fear of the unknown. Once you travel, you realize that staying in your bubble at home isn’t necessary. The world is a big place with so many opportunities and there’s a place in it for everyone. Truly, there’s nothing to hold you back.”