The Sisterhood of the Traveling MBAs: Our Journey Through Chile

As a UC Davis MBA student, you quickly find that managing your time, academics and involvement in activities can be a big challenge.

Both of us considered the International Study Practicum course and trip and thought, “How could I possibly fit this into my packed schedule?”

We both took the plunge and realized the course, which culminated with a week-long MBA International Study Trip (IST) to Santiago, Chile, during winter break, was not only manageable but completely worth it.

After studying the business landscape in Chile during the quarter, we readied for the trip. It represented more than just a study of international business and culture; it was a first for the Graduate School of Management. Our group of 12 MBA students was the only all-women group to take an international study trip.

Our dynamic created a sense of camaraderie and opened the door for empowering connections with the Chilean business leaders we met.

Many leaders shared their enthusiasm and commitment to creating inclusive environments, especially around women’s representation in leadership and STEM roles. Their mission and passion for equipping women resonated deeply with our diverse group of MBAs.

Culinary Kick-Off: The First of Many to Come 

Our Chilean adventure kicked off with a six-course dinner at Mestizo Restaurant in Santiago. Dinner wasn’t just about the tantalizing food, though it delivered on that front; it was about setting the tone for the week.

From taking sunset photos to sharing our reasons for joining this trip, we enjoyed the first of many moments to come. Leading the way were Associate Dean of Programs and Curriculum Joseph Chen and Gaby, our incredible guide from Austral Group.

It was clear this delicious evening in Chile was just a glimpse of all that was to come!

Exploring Valparaíso and Wine Country 

Day two took us over the hills and across the valleys of Chile's Valparaíso Port, the second largest port, handles a significant chunk of Chile’s exports and imports. We saw how centuries-old trade practices evolved with sustainability and community-focused growth in mind.

The port’s future expansion, estimated to cost $800 million, has included active participation from community, environmental and labor groups.

Later, at Kingston Family Vineyards, we learned how Courtney Kingston, a 4th generation and MBA student at the time, had the vision of making red wine in a white wine-dominated Casablanca Valley.

Our team tasted their delicate Pinot Noir wines as we took the breathtaking views of their expansive 300-acre vineyards. Kingston Family Vineyards presents a captivating story of the power of committing to a vision while maintaining the land and leaving it better for the next generation.

Image

Diving Into Real Estate and Banking 

Back in Santiago, our visits to JLL Chile and BancoEstado gave us a closer look at how businesses shape the Chilean communities.

JLL’s approach to real estate development in neighborhoods like Las Condes prioritizes growth mindful of societal impact. Dedicating a portion of their profit, large companies like JLL invest in maintaining public services and resources for their surrounding neighborhoods.

Similarly, BancoEstado, prioritizes the Chilean people by focusing on expanding financial access to rural and agricultural populations.

Both visits highlighted how business decisions can ripple outward, creating opportunities and improving lives, an idea that stuck with us throughout the trip.

Connecting Academia and Sustainability 

Visiting the UC Davis Chile Center was a highlight, as it is always fun to run into university family! For more than a decade, the Center has emphasized research in life sciences innovation, agriculture and the environment. However, it is expanding to other areas where UC Davis has expertise relevant to Chile’s needs and opportunities, e.g., energy, natural resources, transportation and medicine. Their agricultural R&D is making a tangible difference for Chilean farmers. Their aim to encourage young women to enter STEM struck a common chord in our all-women group.

Then at Blumar Seafoods, we got an inside look at sustainable salmon farming and the source of over 60% of our salmon in the U.S. From reducing plastic use to optimizing long production cycles, their efforts showed how even complex industries can focus on doing better for the planet and people.

AI Driving Growth and Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Mining 

Our last day explored new frontiers for women and for new technologies.

At Globant, a global IT company, we saw how collaboration and creativity in AI applications are driving rapid growth.

Then, at Women in Mining, we learned about Chile’s progress in bringing women into mining, a traditionally male-dominated field. In just four years, this group of advocates and leaders increased female representation by 16% in the mining industry.

The day culminated with a farewell dinner at Castillo Forestal, where we celebrated the week, our fantastic guide’s birthday, and everything we’d experienced. It was the perfect way to close our time together.

Our IST Takeaways 

Our week in Chile flew by, but the lessons we took away will stick with us. From sustainable practices to inclusive leadership, the businesses we visited showed us how growth and community can go hand in hand. Being part of the first all-woman IST group added a unique perspective to it all.

If you’re thinking about the UC Davis MBA program, our advice is to consider the many opportunities, such as the International Study Trip. It’s not just about learning; it’s about growing, connecting, and finding inspiration in unexpected places.

 ¡Ciao Ciao!

View Photos

Click a photo to enlarge the gallery and view more information.

Image

MBA students stopped by the Globant offices, a global IT leader, exploring how AI fuels growth and innovation while empowering women to break the glass ceiling in mining.

Image

Striking a pose in front of Santiago's vibrant art installation!

Image

UC Davis MBA students visit the UC Davis Chile Center during their international study trip, where they learned about the Center's research initiatives in agriculture, life sciences, and STEM education.

Image

Exploring the vibrant streets of Valparaíso! Our all-women MBA group embraced Chilean culture and camaraderie while discovering how international business and sustainability intersect.

Image

UC Davis MBA students enjoyed diverse dining experiences across Chile during their week-long international study trip.