4 minute read
Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice
Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice
By Emily Daniels
At Mississippi State University’s College of Business, the power of learning by doing is at the heart of everything we do. Across all degree programs, experiential learning opportunities are not just encouraged – they are integral to our students’ educational journeys. Whether it’s solving realworld business problems, working alongside industry leaders or taking on challenges that test their knowledge and creativity, our students graduate with experiences that set them apart in the workforce.
The philosophy behind experiential learning is simple but transformative: students learn best when they are actively engaged in applying classroom concepts to practical, real situations. This commitment to providing interactive learning opportunities manifests in various ways, including internships, case competitions, entrepreneurial ventures, live case studies and hands-on service opportunities. These initiatives bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring our graduates are prepared to excel in their careers from day one.
One example is a new partnership with McLeod Software that has provided real-time industry data for logistics students in Associate Professor Chris Boone’s International Transportation course. Alumnus Ken Ezelle, owner of Universal Logistics Services, facilitated the relationship with McLeod, provider of one of the industry’s leading trucking management systems. Now, when students make their final boardroom-style presentations to a panel of professionals, they are doing so with the same data that major logistics companies use.
Community engagement is a cornerstone of our emphasis on experiential learning. The Beta Alpha Psi honor society partners with the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, enabling accounting students to provide free tax preparation services to low- and middle-income individuals. Under faculty guidance, students gain hands-on experience while making a tangible impact on their community.
Innovative branding projects further illustrate the breadth of opportunities available to COB students. In the spring of 2024, 170 students from Professor Mike Breazeale’s Strategic Brand Management and Social Media Marketing classes collaborated to modernize the Mississippi Trucking Association’s branding. Proposals, style guides and professional presentations highlighted students’ ability to tackle complex business challenges.
Another exemplary initiative is the live case model, where students collaborate directly with a business to address actual challenges. This past spring, students in a supply chain logistics course partnered with Taylor Logistics, LLC, to analyze and propose solutions for improving supplier relationships. Alumni support enhanced the project, providing actionable insights for the company and equipping students with career-ready skills.
Our conscious marketing course takes experiential learning to the next level by integrating academic rigor with wilderness leadership training. In the summer of 2024, Assistant Professor Myles Landers led students to Alaska’s Prince William Sound for a transformational educational experience. Students explored conscious marketing through guest lectures from companies like Patagonia Provisions while building resilience and teamwork skills.
The TVA Investment Challenge offers students the chance to manage real assets in a $500,000 portfolio provided by the Tennessee Valley Authority. Led by Professor Brandon Cline, the team functions like an investment firm, blending academic knowledge with practical application. Students participate in national conferences, visit financial hubs like New York City and gain invaluable experience managing diversified portfolios.
These diverse initiatives demonstrate the spirit of experiential learning at the College of Business. Under the guidance of expert faculty, students don’t just learn about supply chains, marketing strategies or financial modeling; they apply their knowledge to projects that matter. In doing so, they develop critical skills like collaboration, adaptability and innovative thinking – traits that are invaluable in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Supported by strong partnerships with industry leaders and alumni, companies like Taylor Logistics and McLeod Software and organizations like the National Outdoor Leadership School play a vital role in providing these opportunities. This synergy creates a powerful network of support, where students benefit from the expertise and mentorship of those who have walked in their shoes.
As you read the stories that follow, you’ll see how experiential learning has transformed the lives of our students and the organizations with which they have worked. From live cases and innovative research projects to entrepreneurial triumphs, these examples emphasize the College of Business’ unwavering dedication to fostering hands-on, impactful learning experiences. Together, we are shaping not just careers but also the future of business itself.
