Students connect with alumni and explore influential companies in Chicago

By Shreyus Saxena, BS ’27

School of Management students recently embarked on an immersive experiential learning trip to Chicago. Organized by the Center for Leadership and Global Impact, the trip offered a first-hand view into the business world. Students connected with alumni and explored influential companies in one of America’s most famous cities.

The trip began with an alumni networking dinner that brought together students and UB School of Management graduates now working in Chicago. The dinner provided students with an opportunity to speak with accomplished alumni and receive advice on navigating the various industries within business. The event did more than highlight the countless career paths a business degree can lead to, it allowed for building meaningful connections within the UB community. With great food and great people, the event set the tone for the rest of the trip. “Connecting with UB alumni and seeing firsthand the positive impact they have on our students was truly powerful and energizing,” says Szu-Yin Wu, clinical assistant professor of finance.

The next stop was the McDonald’s global headquarters, which left a positive impression on every student. School of Management alumnus Kyle Clarey, BS ’17, financial planning and analysis manager, guided the group through the building, showing all the behind-the-scenes details of how the company operates. Students learned about marketing and supply chain management, focusing on small details and intentions. The tour emphasized the need for consistency and adaptability to meet high expectations as a top global brand. For the students, it was eye-opening to see how McDonald’s balances innovation while maintaining its global identity. Everyone left with a greater understanding of the complexities in managing a chain restaurant worldwide.

“It was remarkable seeing the level of intention behind every decision McDonald’s makes. For anyone aspiring to globalize a company, you can learn a lot from their business model,” says Shreyus Saxena, BA ’27.

After the visit to McDonald’s, the trip continued with the next stop at Wow Bao, a fast-growing company that makes frozen dumplings and potstickers. Alumnus Brandon Tammaro, BS ’15, vice president of strategic growth, hosted and allowed students to sit in on a fascinating presentation about leadership and adaptability within the food industry. The session explained how creativity and a willingness to adapt have allowed Wow Bao to thrive as much as they have. The company’s ability to incorporate modern trends into its business models was a standout lesson for students looking to understand how smaller companies can make waves in traditional industries. Overall, the presentation provided students with lifelong lessons on how to approach leadership roles in any industry.

The final stop of the trip was at the World’s Largest Starbucks. This flagship store not only offered students an opportunity to experience Starbucks in a way that few others can but also served as a perfect place to reflect on the journey they took. All floors were designed as a unique

experience in themselves, providing an environment for students to take in the lessons they had learned and the people they had met throughout the trip. It was an ideal place to wind down, enjoy a cappuccino and a slice of pizza (yes, this Starbucks served pizza), and reflect on the experiences gained.

The final stop of the trip brought students to one of the world’s five Starbucks Reserve Roasteries, a distinctive location that blends brand experience with business insight. While there, Professor Wu led a discussion on the business of Starbucks, examining the company’s evolution alongside its current and past challenges in a competitive global market. Students were then encouraged to explore the five floors of the Roastery on their own, taking in the thoughtfully designed spaces and immersive elements unique to this location. It was a fitting place to slow down, enjoy a cappuccino (and even a slice of pizza) and reflect on the experiences gained.

The trip to Chicago was an extraordinary opportunity for School of Management students to gain practical knowledge, build professional relationships and witness how businesses operate in a competitive environment. Every moment of the trip has contributed to the personal and professional growth of students ranging from networking with successful alumni to gaining insights into global corporations. As they return to their studies, students carry with them new knowledge and the inspiration to make a larger impact on the world of business.

We would like to extend gratitude to Caitlin McNulty, associate director of engagement and outreach, and Professor Szu-Yin Wu for leading and organizing this trip in a very well-organized manner. Additionally, we want to show appreciation to the alumni who shared their time and career insights with us, allowing us to soak up their knowledge and lessons they have learned along the way. Finally, we sincerely thank the Center for Leadership and Global Impact for making this trip possible and for providing such meaningful experiential learning opportunities that we are truly grateful for.