Baylor Business in Sydney: Expanding Horizons Down Under

This summer, Hankamer School of Business students had the opportunity to study abroad in Sydney, Australia, where they experienced a vibrant mix of culture, business and global connections. Students immersed themselves in a city filled with festivals, outdoor adventures and world-class beaches – all while pursuing business studies at a top 20 global university through the Baylor Business in Sydney program.

Led by faculty director Michael Rodriguez, a clinical assistant professor of Accounting, the program combines classroom learning with real-world experiences. Students explored global business in an entrepreneurial environment while taking advantage of Sydney’s position as a major hub of the Asia-Pacific region. With instruction in an English-speaking city, students focused fully on building professional skills and cultural awareness while thriving in Sydney’s active, outdoor lifestyle. 

A highlight of the trip was meeting Baylor University President Linda Livingstone, PhD, and First Gent Brad Livingstone, who joined the group abroad and witnessed firsthand the program’s impact and the value of its hands-on learning approach.

“It was so exciting to be with our Baylor Business in Sydney students flinging their green and gold afar,” Livingstone said. “This program is an exceptional learning and cultural experience for them. It is an opportunity to experience life in Australia, visit numerous companies to learn more about business operations and make global connections before entering their professional careers. It was a real privilege for the First Gent and me to be with this great group of students.” 

Company visits were a key component of the program, allowing students to see how global organizations operate and to connect with professionals across industries. One of the visits included LinkedIn’s Sydney office, organized by Sara Perry, PhD, professor of management, and hosted by David Bellas, BBA ’95, director of LinkedIn Talent Solutions.  

“For the past several years, I have had the honor of hosting the Baylor Business students at our LinkedIn offices,” Bellas said. “They are all so curious, switched on and excited for the future. We take the opportunity to discuss the world of work, skills and things to consider in their career moves. This past visit was extra special as we had Dr. Livingstone join us for the tour and discussion. As a Baylor alum, it is a privilege to give back where I can.” 

Students found the LinkedIn visit particularly meaningful for their own professional development. Junior Finance major Molly Briggs noted the experience has already influenced the way she approaches career preparation. 

“The visit to LinkedIn’s Sydney office showed me how important the platform is for professional growth,” Briggs said. “Since then, I’ve been using LinkedIn Plus and LinkedIn Learning to build skills and strengthen my presence online, which has already shaped how I approach my career development.” 

Another highlight was the group’s visit to Breville, a global leader in premium appliances. Breville’s Chief Operating Officer Mark Payne, BBA ’90, shared key insights about what the students gained from the experience and the importance of international experiential learning.  

“Students gained a clear view of how Breville leadership builds a positive company culture and creates an environment where employees can achieve both personal satisfaction and strong business results,” Payne said. “Students that get international business exposure quickly understand that the world has many different cultures and markets, and the world markets do not look like the US market.”  

Junior Supply Chain and Entrepreneurship major Kate Ness reflected on the visit and the insights shared by Payne about the company’s approach to leadership and workplace culture. 

“We learned how Breville stays ahead by delivering thoughtful, beautifully engineered premium appliances that elevate the daily coffee ritual into something extraordinary,” Ness said. “However, the most impactful part of the visit was Mark Payne’s insight on how to stand out as an employee. He provided real-world examples about going the extra mile and spoke on the importance of soft interpersonal skills that often can’t be taught. Hearing that reminded me how qualities like commitment and strong relationships can set you apart in any career.” 

The company visits and professional opportunities gave Baylor Business in Sydney students firsthand insight into international business, meaningful connections with alumni and executives, and unforgettable memories of studying abroad in one of the most dynamic cities in the world. 

For more information about Baylor Business in Sydney or to learn how to take part in this study abroad experience, click here.