In an increasingly global economy, international experience for Indiana University MBA candidates comes from hands-on work in the field as much as the classroom. A group of students, led by Dr. Phil Powell, travel to Peru to help local entrepreneurs tackle business challenges using cutting edge business practices. The Kelley MBA GLOBASE initiative provides a unique social enterprise experience by partnering with Peruvian businesses to make a global impact.


Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Paprika and Piscos

Reflecting back on or time in Peru, it is difficult for Team Dirose to have envisioned a better project or better people to work with. Diego and Miguel's invention, multiple robotic arms for paprika pepper picking, could potentially revolutionize the way peppers are harvested throughout the world. We are fortunate to have had the opportunity to offer guidance for this project through presentation recommendations to financial institutions and potential customers, building financial models, and outlining overall strategic focus for the company. Perhaps the best experience we had working with Dirose was the relationship-building process. Latin culture is very much relationship-based, and much of our best progress on the project was made during lunch at Diego and Miguel's parents' house or over several Pisco Sours (the traditional Peruvian drink) in the evening. It truly was an invaluable international business experience.

The trip wasn't without its exciting expeditions in Peru though! Some of the adventures of Team Dirose members included surfing in the Pacific Ocean, paragliding in the mountains, four-wheeling in the Andes, and trekking through the lush national park of Paracas. Naturally, the highlight was our trip to Machu Picchu, where we explored the ancient city for an entire afternoon.

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