This course is a transformative experience of consulting and volunteering to help individuals from refugee and migrant backgrounds to unlock their entrepreneurial potential and thrive in the Greek business landscape. In this international experiential learning travel course, students will embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the fundamentals of entrepreneurship while navigating the unique challenges and opportunities present in Greece's dynamic business environment. Through a combination of interactive workshops, mentorship sessions, and real-world case studies, students will be offered a supportive and collaborative learning environment where they can network, exchange ideas, and gain inspiration from the small business owners.

Note: This course fulfills the Engaged Learning core requirement.

Learning Methods:

The majority of learning in this course is based on experiential learning, with an inductive learning model. You will have intensive experiences you could not have in the traditional classroom setting. These experiences will deepen your understanding and provide the stimulus for critical reflection about managerial lessons, cultural experiences and life experiences that will broaden your insights.

Online Course Tools:

• Canvas: This course will use Canvas as an online course tool for course materials, quizzes and exams.

Textbooks:

1. Greece - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture by Constantine Buhayer.

2. Other readings in the form of articles and videos/movies that will be distributed and discussed before departure.

Method of Evaluation:

The course grade breakdown is as follows:

• Participation in scheduled events 35%

• Culture quiz 20%

• Discussions on Videos and Films 20%

• Group project and case presentation 25%

Total: 100%

Participation:

Participation is expected to help both your learning and that of your peers. Please come prepared by completing the assigned readings. Attend all the modules and events, participate during the class sessions and the company visits.

Culture Quiz:

This quiz will be taken prior to the departure and is based on textbook 1. This pre-departure quiz tests your understanding of the basic Greek etiquettes and cultural differences.

Discussions:

These are seminar-like oral discussions based on videos and movies that we will watch before and/or during the class. These discussions will introduce students to the refugees situation in Greece, how the country is dealing with it and examples of successful businesses powered by refugees and immigrants in the area. During these discussions, students will reflect, critically analyze and express their thoughts, feelings, and insights about those movies.

Case Presentation:

Students will participate in this presentation in a group of 2-3 individuals (groups formed by students), and they will be graded as a group. All group members are expected to participate fully in the presentation, including attending group meetings, preparing, conducting research and analyses, and presenting.

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Broaden their understanding of the social, cultural, political, economic, and managerial differences between the United States and Greece.

2. Learn how to develop a business plan, including defining the business concept, target market, value proposition, and financial projections.

3. Learn how to develop and implement basic marketing strategies to promote a product or a service.

4. Leveraging digital tools and technology for business success and common good.

5. Refine their communication skills.