FROM THE SENIOR DIRECTOR
At Babson, we believe that entrepreneurial leaders need essential global competencies to successfully create, grow and steward sustainable economic and social value everywhere. The Glavin Office of International Education (Glavin Office) provides students with important global learning opportunities and services to hone these essential intercultural skills
The word I would use to describe Academic Year 2023/2024 for the Glavin Office is –growth. We supported the most international students in Babson’s history with 1387 total enrolled and 350 on post-completion work authorization (OPT & STEM OPT) Additionally, 669 graduates and undergraduates studied abroad – the most students ever for the College! This is thanks, in part, to the TARCO Global Learning Fund which continues to grow The fund, which has already funded 183 students since its inception in January 2023, removes financial and other barriers that keep Babson students from international learning opportunities.
Beyond international mobility and thanks to our strong and committed faculty and staff partners, our global learning opportunities on campus are growing too! We launched the
Leadership Across Difference badge program for graduate students who engaged in meaningful co-curricular learning experiences on campus that facilitated inclusive leadership competencies. Eighteen graduate students enrolled in Babson’s first Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) course Babson faculty and students utilized technology to collaborate on an international project with their counterparts at Nord University in Norway.
Finally, Babson’s reputation as a leader in international education continues to grow The Institute of International Education (IIE) ranked Babson #2 for number of international students and #1 for total number of education abroad students within its Carnegie classification. And in April, the Chronicle of Higher Education featured Babson College in an article entitled: How a business school took an entrepreneurial approach to international education.
The Glavin Office is so grateful for the faculty, staff and international partners who collaborate with us to bring innovative and engaging global learning to our students We hope you find the report useful and a testament to Babson’s internationalization success story, particularly as it relates to students’ global engagement with the world
Lorien Romito Senior Director
Glavin Office of International Education
Vision & Mission
Mission Statement Vision Statement
We want to be the catalyst for the development of entrepreneurial leaders with a global mindset. We envision Babson graduates as responsible and respectful citizens of the world whose mindfulness of the complexities of identity and culture enable them to successfully create value everywhere.
We empower students to think and act intentionally in intercultural contexts, to explore their identities, and to develop the skills necessary to navigate the environment in which they live, learn, and work.
Glavin Office Staff Fall 2023
Amir Reza, Ph.D. Dean, Babson Academy Dean, Global Education
John Crisafulli Director, Education Abroad
Kaela Conroy Assistant Director, Education Abroad
Gloriana Chambers Advisor, Education Abroad
Bingqing Zhou Advisor, Education Abroad
Lorien Romito Senior Director, International Education
Li Tan Administrative Assistant, Glavin Office
Elizabeth Saumsiegle Director, ISSS
Nicole Nicosia Associate Director, ISSS
Jill Bedarian Advisor, ISSS
Elise Beaudin Associate Director, Glavin Office & Director, Short-Term Programs
Amanda Jew Program Manager, Short-Term Programs
Molly Buckley Program Manager, Short-Term Programs
Ikuko Konda Senior Advisor, ISSS
Elena Taborda Temporary Advisor, ISSS
International Student and Scholar Services
The International Student & Scholars Services (ISSS) team advises over 1600 incoming students, current undergraduate and graduate students, recent alumni on Optional Practical Training (OPT) and visiting scholars Babson's diversity is celebrated through campus events, global learning in the classroom, and the flags flying in Centennial Park. During Fall 2023, 92 countries were represented in Babson's international student population
Fall 2023 At-a-Glance
International Student and Scholar Services
Total: 233 Undergraduate: 63
Graduate: 170
IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY VISITS
These sessions are set up to connect students with immigration attorneys and to have them learn about visa possibilities after Babson. Four sessions in Wellsley campus took place and we had our first event in Miami campus.
GLOBAL SCHOLARS
INTERNATIONAL TEA
ISSS successfully hosted a variety of international teas. These events are designed to bring together international students at Babson while enjoying international tea and snacks from various corners of the world Some of the events included additional activities or collaborations with other departments, student groups on campus and guest speakers.
Babson welcomed 9 new undergraduate students as Babson Global Scholars, members of a need-based scholarship program launched in 2014. The class of 2027 represents nine countries, four continents, and multiple cultural backgrounds
Pictured: New Global Scholars Star Lunch at Babson
International Student and Scholar Services
INBOUND EXCHANGE
This year, the Glavin Office hosted various events intending to foster friendships amongst the exchange student group and engage them with various offices in the college Some of the most popular events during the 23-24 Academic Year were: Welcome to Babson Orientation & Lunches, Introduction to the Weissman Foundry, Ski Trips, Conversations with the Blank Center for Entrepreneurship, & both Fall and Spring Exchange Farewell Parties
During both Fall & Spring Semesters, the Glavin Office received support from Simon Mortimer ’24,
as
who assisted in the coordination and planning of events, engagement and overall support of the Exchange Students at Babson.
What were the most positive aspects of your exchange experience at Babson?
“Meeting my friends Experiencing smaller classes environment Connections with professors Exposure to such a
“The BABSON community! Love the people here, students, professors and all others ” --Anonymous (Spring 2024)
Pictured: Exchange Students Farewell Lunch (Simon Mortimer ‘24
The first person from the left)
Pictured: Exchange Students at Blank Center
48% of Class 2024 participated in semester/summer/AY abroad*
Undergraduate Summer, Semester &
#1 for total study abroad students among Special Focus InstitutionsOpen Doors (IIE)
$123,400 80+students earned external scholarships
4 Gilman Scholarship recipients (awards of $3,000)+ 1 Critical Need Language Scholarship ($6,000)
The Education Abroad team supports all students who enroll in academic year, semester, and summer abroad programs with a portfolio of over 100 programs in over 30 countries worldwide Education abroad has become increasingly accessible for students at Babson regardless of their concentration, financial need, or demographic background The team uses a holistic advising model in collaboration with campus partners to support a diverse population of students throughout their education abroad plans, including curriculum integration and credit transfer, financial support, and identity exploration
Participation in education abroad at Babson has increased steadily over the past decade, though greatly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021. The 2023-24 academic year saw a continued increase in the number of study abroad participants. The students have demonstrated an interest in the return of traditional, fully in-person programs abroad.
Academic Year Fall Semester Spring Semester Summer Term
Education Abroad
Student Reflections
Pratyay Agrawal, '25
CIEE: Madrid (Fall 2023)
“My journey extended beyond the classroom, encompassing the exploration of other countries, each with their own unique history and culture This adventure not only broadened my global perspective but also prompted significant personal development. ”
Undergraduate Summer, Semester &
Manal Maigari, '25
Arcadia: Umbra Institute in Perugia (Fall 2023)
Academic
My experience abroad was incredibly enjoyable, particularly in Italy. Every moment I spent there was filled with learning about the culture, and I developed a profound appreciation for their respect and passion for food The differences in our cultures fascinated me, extending beyond just the culinary aspect. I believe fostering inclusivity and diversity in educational
experiences is crucial, and I aim to be a bridge, encouraging a more diverse representation in the program My goal is to empower Muslim women to explore and appreciate different cultures while pursuing their educational aspirations abroad.
Education Abroad
The Education Abroad team supports MBA students in studying for a semester abroad at our prestigious exchange partners around the world. Graduate semester abroad has seen a significant increase in the past two years with students eagerly seeking out opportunities to expand their networks and gain valuable international experience in business
Graduate Exchange Partner Institutions:
ESADE Business School (Spain)
HEC School of Management (France)
IE University (Spain)
SDA Bocconi School of Management (Italy)
Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management (China)
University of St. Gallen (Switzerland)
Student Reflections
Manish Rawal, MBA ’24
ESADE (Fall 2023)
“Studying at ESADE was an eye-opening experience that broadened my horizons beyond the classroom Immersing myself in the vibrant culture of Barcelona, collaborating with peers from around the world, and learning from renowned faculty members truly enriched my MBA journey. The semester abroad challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, embrace new perspectives, and gain a global mindset that will undoubtedly shape my future as a business leader ”
Education Abroad
15 % increase
The Short-Term Programs team offered a variety of faculty-led Elective Abroad and International Consulting Experiences with 120 graduate and 204 undergraduate students The team works closely with Babson’s faculty members to connect course work with a chance to travel and learn outside the classroom
Short-term Programs at Babson College have seen an increase in applicant interest compared to previous years. With a total of 16 courses inclusive of both undergraduate and graduate students, the total number of participants has increased by 15% compared to Academic Year 2022/2023
Sweden
Greece
Japan
Thailand
Brazil
EnrollmentOver10Years
Short Term Programs
324 Participants UG: 204 Grad: 120
16
15 courses Countries/ Places
2023-2024 Courses:
OIM3501 Global Health Innovation Lab
LIT4693 Plays, Performance and Politics: The London Theatre
MFE3508/7500 International Consulting Experience
MSM6110-01 Global Entrepreneurship Experience – Chile
MSM6110-02 Global Entrepreneurship Experience – South Africa
MSM6110-03 Global Entrepreneurship Experience – Germany
MSM6110-04 Global Entrepreneurship Experience – Sweden
EPS3542 Innovation Ecosystems of Spain
ECN3601 Political Economy of Sustainable Development: Case of Germany
HIS4610 Virtuous Capitalism in Malaysia and Thailand
ECN7575 Business Models, Competitiveness, and the Changing European Environment
MOB3507 An Irish Journey: Leadership, Collaboration & Innovation in the Creative Ecosystem in Ireland
EPS3509 Entrepreneurship New Ventures in Global Fashion
EPS3524 Made in Japan: Culture and Opportunities
POL4606 Ancient Athens and the Birth of Political Thought
Education Abroad
Student Reflections
“This course was a life-changing experience for me and my peers! The professional connections we made, the opportunities that broadened perspectives, and the care of Professor Garbarino and Ms Ann were second to none on fostering an inclusive environment for all involved I will never forget the memories and lasting relationships I formed and how it motivated me to dream farther and inspire others to do more!”
-Kai Ogenah, ‘25 (Atlanta Elective Away)
“The Japan short-term study abroad program was truly one of the most memorable experiences I've had. The combination of an immersive and authentic cultural experience combined with exposure to the world of business and entrepreneurship in Japan truly added to my learnings and has only furthered my goals of wanting to become an entrepreneur I continue to navigate my tenure at Babson college!”
-Aaryan Goyal, '26 (Japan Elective Abroad)
“From insightful lectures by Bocconi professors to immersive cultural experiences and invaluable company visits, the program provided a comprehensive understanding of global business dynamics while fostering meaningful connections with peers and professionals Overall, it was a highly positive and impactful journey that broadened my perspectives and enriched my learning journey ”
- Mariano Mancini, MBA ‘24 (Graduate Italy Elective Abroad)
“This was unlike any trip I have taken and Babson, exceeded all of my expectations regarding the quality of the business visits, the learning and development, and the sense of community that was cultivated. I have learned so much from this one trip, any future trips will pale in comparison. The GEE experience alone is worth applying to the MSEL program as it teaches through application and self-development ”
-Maria Leonidakis MSEL ‘24 (Chile Global Entrepreneurship Experience)
Faculty & Staff Engagement
BLGC
Babson Leadership in a Global Context: Berlin & Singapore program
In 2023-24, the commitment and engagement of our faculty and staff to global learning continue to grow. Through collaborative efforts, innovative programs, and personalized support, our faculty and staff have played an instrumental role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and academic excellence, solidifying Babson College's reputation as a leader in international education.
COIL
Collaborative Online International Learning
Babson College was selected to participate in the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) Institute on Virtual Exchange/Collaborative Online International Learning (VE-COIL) COIL pedagogy offers affordable opportunities for students to increase global competencies through technology and thoughtful course design. It also increases opportunities for interdisciplinary innovation and global collaboration between faculty and staff on digital teaching, research, and experiential learning
A graduate-level course was delivered to Babson and Nord students during the Spring 2024 semester
During AAC&U’s visit to Babson in March 2024, COIL pedagogy was ny of
During the Fall 2024 semester, this globally comparative and academically rigorous study abroad experience was offered through a collaboration between Babson College and our Global Education Partner, CIEE. Fourteen Babson students travelled together, as a cohort, to Berlin (6 weeks) and Singapore (6 weeks) while engaging in onsite coursework, meetings with business leaders, and exploring important cultural sites Courses were delivered both by Babson faculty (remotely and onsite) and CIEE site faculty (onsite).
Babson faculty:
Professor Kandice Hauf (History & Society)
Professor Bill Gartner (Entrepreneurship)
“I had a wonderful experience teaching in our COIL project this past spring It was a valuable opportunity to work with students who faced real challenges such as time zone differences, cultural and linguistic diversity, and varied reasons for joining the project These challenges reflect the reality of the world we live in, and offer great lessons for learning ”
-Eric Palson
Engaging Babson Educators
Kristen Getchell, Associate professor of business communication
Eric Palson, Director of academic technologies
Amir Reza, Dean of Babson Academy and global education
Lorien Romito, Senior director of international education
Pictured: President Stephen Spinelli Jr , PhD with Babson faculty and students at BABSON CONNECT WORLDWIDE Singapore 2024
Faculty & Staff Engagement
Faculty Mentors for Global Scholars
The faculty mentor of the Global Scholars Program provides guidance to a cohort of students who hail from around the world The mentor consistently meets one-on-one with each student in their cohort meetings and hosts a variety of events for the students with the intention to learn about one another’s experiences, develop lifelong relationships and to expand their personal and professional interests Each mentor stays with their cohort for the duration of the duration of their cohort’s studies, which is typically four years During that time the faculty develops a strong connection to each student.
Incoming mentor:
Julie Levinson, Professor of Film, Arts and Humanities
Mentor for Class of 2027:
Ahmed Ahmed, Assistant Professor of Finance, Finance
Mentor for Class of 2025:
Mik McGuirk, Associate Professor of Practice, Marketing
Short Term Programs Support
Every year, Babson faculty from various departments are excited to offer a wide range of courses to our undergraduate and graduate students. This year, 18 faculty members ran short-term programs throughout the academic year Their passion for their subject matters becomes a huge factor for increased interest in our Short-term Programs
Short-term Programs also provide an opportunity for other community members to travel along on these courses. This opportunity gives administrators a way to see students in a different context and offers an added layer of support This year, 13 administrators traveled alongside the courses with faculty and students
Cultivating Faculty & Staff Global Connections
Sponsored by "North Star Initiative", the Glavin Office spearheaded an internationalization task force launching a series of impactful events such as Story Circle aimed at fostering cross-cultural understanding among the diverse members of faculty and staff, enhancing their cultural awareness and strengthening the Babson's commitment to global engagement and inclusivity.
Advisory Support
A special thank you to the faculty and staff who served on the committee or programs to promote global learning and intercultural development.
ACEA- Advisory Committee on Education Abroad
GGF- Glavin Global Fellows
LAD- Leadership Across Difference
Annual Events
International Education Week
International Education Week (IEW) represents a collaborative effort between the U.S. Departments of State and Education to honor the positive impact of global educational exchanges The 2023 celebration at Babson brought together students, staff, faculty, and alumni to embrace the spirit of international camaraderie. The week kicked off with Own your Identity: Spiritual Leadership, in which students discussed the intersection of their culture and faith and how to honor those identities in both the academic and professional landscape. A balance of academic, professional and social events was held during this week to showcase the important role international education has on the development of the individual
Graduate International Dinner
Each year, the Glavin Office of International Education helps to organize the Graduate International Dinner, an annual tradition dating back over 20 years, alongside Graduate Student Life & Leadership and student leaders Student teams represented distinct cuisines from 10 countries, such as Sri Lanka, Peru, Brazil, and Russia. Attendees experienced diverse culinary offerings across from world connected with friends and Babson community members
Pictured: International Education Week events
Pictured: Graduate International Dinner 2024
Global Leadership Award Recipients Annual Events
Graduate: Shashank Ranjan
Shashank Ranjan is an international student from Mumbai, India. Before Babson, Shashank studied at the Indian Institute of Technology, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering and has over nine years of work experience at various start-up companies and the Indian government During his time at Babson, Shashank immediately immersed himself in the Babson community. He was the president of the Babson India Graduate Club for 3 semesters and nominators described him as a strong, organized and positive leader. Additionally, he was an active member of Babson’s Leadership Lab and made thoughtful contributions to the Graduate CCD internship course during his internship at Siemens Digital Industry Solution He actively demonstrated his leadership skills as he coached his peers about how to navigate the US job market.
Shashank brings a global and entrepreneurial mindset to every interaction and his favorite quote by Henry Ford is: “Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently ”
Undergraduate: Bidhi Mandal
Bidhi’s global leadership has always been evident She is a Global Scholar from Nepal. She is a Glavin Global Fellow who earned a grants to travel to Nepal and France. She studied and did service abroad in Italy, Thailand, Malaysia and Tanzania She was selected for a highly competitive “Future Nobel Laureates Scholarship Program” where she traveled to Sweden with only 10 other students from around the world
Finally, Bidhi centers her global leadership on social impact. She is the Social Impact Club President, a Social Impact Intern for the Institute of Social Innovation, and a Social Impact Mentor for the HELV She is a Natalie Taylor Scholar who has focused her work on community projects in Nepal Most of all, she is a friend to many across campus and we know she will serve her local and global communities with excellence and empathy.
Each year this award is given to an undergraduate and graduate student who has fostered a climate of understanding and respect between student groups on campus as a true example of a Global Student Leader
Pictured: Shashank Ranjan MBA’24 & Lorien Romito
Pictured: Bidhi Mandal '24 & Lorien Romito
TARCO Global Learning Fund
The TARCO Global Learning Fund, made possible by the generosity of Todd Ruderman, MBA'99, enables experiences that can transform individuals, communities, and ultimately society.
TARCO Global Learning Fund
The Global Learning Fund enables Babson students to embark on transformative global learning experiences that impact individuals, communities, and society as a whole The fund has the following objectives: enhancing global learning for Babson learners; providing access for students with demonstrated financial need or other barriers to access; supporting faculty to create innovative international opportunities for students; and expanding and scaling current global experiential learning opportunities
Testimonials
The National Student Leadership Diversity Conference (NSLDC) sparked my interest in the topic of unconscious bias. In the future, I would like to dedicate more time to learning about the prevalence and impact of unconscious bias in leadership, and how to actively mitigate its influence in my own interactions and decision-making processes By continuously expanding my knowledge and refining my leadership approach, I aim to become a more effective and inclusive leader who fosters positive change.
--Mohit Bansal, MBA’
24
National Student Leadership Diversity Conference (NSLDC)
It was such an amazing experience to be part of the Global Impact Sprint in NYC, especially being able to represent Babson College there
Each one of the 3 groups had 5 members from each university: Babson, MIT, NYU, HPI, and Tecnológico de Monterrey. This experience surpassed my expectations and was aligned with my interest in development at the intersection of business, technology, and sustainability. The theme of the Sprint was Microgrid, especially SDG 7 (Clean and Affordable Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action)
In 100 hours we built a digital business model that empowers local entrepreneurs to offer clean energy to their local communities based on microgrid electricity access I want to thank Babson College and its community for enabling such an enriching opportunity, I am working to leverage these learnings and insights to create a positive impact in the clean energy sector ”
--Vitor Ungari, MBA' 25
Interning and living in Singapore has been incredible! My internship at Kaizenvest, a private equity firm, has enabled me to gain hands-on experience through analyzing potential deals, interviewing company founders, helping with financial modeling, and reading company documents including investment memos and short diligence reports As part of the deals team, I have had great mentorship and learning opportunities where I have been supported by my coworkers. On the weekends, I enjoy exploring Singapore with friends, visiting attractions such as the Botanical Gardens, Peranakan Houses, and Universal Studios There is also a wide variety of delicious cuisine to try from local staples such as nasi lemak at hawker centres to cakes at nearby cafes. I'm so grateful to Absolute Internship and the Glavin Office for this opportunity to have international work experience in emerging markets while being immersed in the culture of Singapore
--Cadence Cristbol '26 International Internship, Summer 2024
Student Programs
GGF
Glavin Global Fellows
2024 Glavin Global Fellows Research Project
University Scholars Leadership Symposium
- Xinru Lu (Grant 2023)
Inner Peace of the Source
- Matin Yazdi (Grant 2023)
Exploring as a Local: Singapore
- Daniel Mendoza (Grant 2023)
Muslims in Japan, a Cultural Shift
- Tahnoon Murtza (Grant 2023)
London's Performing Art Scene
- Madison Roberts (Grant 2024)
Glavin Global Fellows (GGF) is a community of undergraduate students who are passionate about global issues, language study, and international experiences on campus and beyond GGF provides on-campus programs, access to community events, research funding, and distinct global learning opportunities for students who seek to expand their global mindset while at Babson.
As a result of the generosity of the TARCO Global Learning Fund and Babson friends, we are excited to provide grants to Glavin Global Fellows for exploration of international or multicultural endeavors Grant funds are to help Fellows pursue experiences that will enhance their critical thinking on global & multicultural issues.
Glavin Global Fellows Badge
The Hindu and Buddhist Influence in Thailand
- Chiraag Kankariya (Grant 2024)
El Asado in Buenos Aires
- Miguel Flores Jimenez (Grant 2024)
The Glavin Global Fellows badge is an opportunity for fellows to highlight the intersection between globally focused courses they took in the Babson curriculum, language proficiency and their global/multicultural experiences. This four-year pathway ensures that students develop and apply global competencies that prepare them to be entrepreneurial leaders with a global mindset.
2024 GGF Badge Recipients
Dominique Csehill
Tarlee Dahn
Nairi Enright
Daniella Galaso
Madison Grogan
Riley Hansen
Soobin Lee
Levi
Bidhi
Alan Xu
Lowney
Mandal
Andrea Torres Everest
Pictured: GGF Badge Recipients Luncheon
Student Programs LAD
Leadership Across Differe
The Leadership Across Difference badge is designed to enhance Graduate students' leadership skills when engaging across difference. Students will also demonstrate empathy, perspective taking, and innovative collaboration in diverse and intercultural settings The skills that students gain through this training are critical to successful entrepreneurial leadership in our culturally diverse global society
2024 LAD Badge Recipients
Aditya Arakkel
Deepanshi Bansal
Arlene Cummings
Barbara Cristina de Souza Pinto
Niv Elka
Mobasshir Hasan
Richard Legler
Zeyi(Vicole) Li
Arkadev Putatunda
Rusudan Samunashvili
Priyaranjan Sontakke
Muhammad Idris Mappakaya Syar
Anna Troshina
Mary Yamat
A Pilot Program for Graduate students
What participants say?
The LAD program was pivotal in helping me identify and address my biases, providing the structured learning necessary for growth, and offering a platform to apply these learnings in real-world settings.
- Arkadev Putatunda, MBA ’24
I'm now more committed than ever to being a thoughtful, adaptable, and impactful leader who celebrates and elevates the unique backgrounds and experiences of those around me As I move forward in my career, I'm excited to bring the lessons I've learned about inclusive leadership into my future workplace The LAD program has been instrumental in helping me navigate and thrive in a diverse, dynamic environment
- Mary Yamat, MSEL ‘24
Reflecting on my experiences in the "Leadership Across Differences" course, I've come to realize the profound impact that understanding cultural nuances and embracing diverse perspectives has on effective leadership. This journey was not just about acquiring knowledge; it was about transforming my approach to leadership in a globalized context.
- Idris Mappakaya Syar, MBA ’24
Student Programs
The Babson College 24-25 Fulbright U S Student Program application year was unique in that it was comprised of four Babson alumni. The first applicant was interested in utilizing his background in tech ed consulting and proposed a research project focused on underserved populations in rural Canada The second applicant sought an English Teaching Assistantship in Italy, leveraging her fluency in Italian and her volunteer teaching experience gained during her study abroad.
The final two applicants applied for Fulbright graduate study grants: one aimed to study AsiaPacific Studies in Taiwan, and the other sought to pursue Strategic Management in a Changing World in Finland. Babson was pleased to have one applicant reach semi-finalist status and commends all applicants for their dedication, self-reflection, research, and multiple revisions of their essays.
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is the flagship international educational exchange sponsored by the U S government It is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries by providing study/research or English teaching assistant grants The program operates in over 160 countries worldwide
Find Babson
Fulbright Fellows
Thank you to our donors and campus, community and international partners who have contributed to the success of the Glavin Office of International Education Your continued support allows for more students to engage in global learning on campus and beyond
Any questions, please contact the Glavin Office: glavinoffice@babson edu +1 781 239 4565
