Global Perspectives in Practice: Baylor MBA Students Explore Santiago, Chile

As part of Baylor’s commitment to cultivating globally minded business leaders, full-time MBA students embarked on an immersive international experience in Santiago, Chile from October 18–25, 2025. This week-long journey blended cultural exploration with high-impact business engagements, offering students a firsthand look at global commerce, innovation, and leadership in Latin America.

The trip began with a cultural deep dive into Chile’s history and social landscape, where students toured Cerro San Cristóbal and the Museo de la Memoria. This set the tone for a week of learning that would bridge historical context with modern business realities.

“Being in Chile allowed us to see firsthand how culture influences everything from leadership decisions to daily interactions,” said Jenna Busby, MBA candidate from Fort Worth, TX. “The country was filled with creativity, warmth, and a strong sense of identity, which made the experience incredibly meaningful.”

Throughout the week, students met with a diverse array of companies and organizations:

• Mining Sector: Visits to Consejo Minero provided insights into one of Chile’s most vital industries.
• Agriculture and Wine: A tour of Viña Undurraga Winery highlighted Chile’s global role in wine production and agribusiness.
• Energy Innovation: At Enel, students explored sustainable energy solutions and Chile’s leadership in renewable power.
• Research and Consulting: A session with Euromonitor offered perspectives on market intelligence and consumer trends.
• Entrepreneurship: Students participated in business challenge presentations with Chilean startups including Safeguard 360, 2IT, Trantor, Acot, Comuhack, and Reite, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and problem-solving.

Healthcare MBA students also engaged in specialized visits to Clinica Las Condes and Hospital Luis Tisné, enriching their understanding of international healthcare systems.

“Seeing the impact that culture has on the shaping of healthcare was amazing,” said Kayla Nguyen, MBA candidate in Healthcare Administration from Pearland, TX. “Chilean culture is extremely collectivist in comparison to America’s, and it can be seen in every aspect of their healthcare system. The emphasis on universal access and community-based care really stood out to me. Healthcare isn’t viewed as a privilege but as a collective good that everyone contributes to and benefits from.”

Beyond business, the itinerary included a modern business tour of the Sanhattan Financial District and a visit to Sky Costanera, the tallest building in Latin America. Students also bonded over a Chilean cooking class, blending culinary tradition with team-building.

“The cooking class gave us a chance to work together, try new flavors, and enjoy the creativity of Chilean cuisine,” Busby recalled. “And bus karaoke quickly became a highlight, turning long drives into moments of pure joy where everyone’s personality shined.”

A day trip to the coastal cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar offered a scenic and historical contrast to Santiago’s urban energy, culminating in a farewell lunch that celebrated the week’s experiences.

This international trip exemplifies Baylor’s dedication to experiential learning. By engaging with global markets, diverse cultures, and real-world challenges, students returned with broadened perspectives and deeper insights into the complexities of international business.

“Traveling to Chile reminded me of how important it is to welcome new experiences with openness and curiosity,” Busby said. “That mindset has already shaped the way I approach challenges and new environments, and I know it will continue to guide me moving forward”

“As a future healthcare professional, gaining this new perspective truly opened my eyes to the endless possibilities for improving healthcare in America,” Nguyen said. “While both the American and Chilean healthcare systems have their strengths and weaknesses, seeing each one firsthand helped me appreciate the benefits they offer, and it inspired me to advocate for more equitable and accessible care in our own system.”

For alumni, this journey reflects the evolving nature of the Baylor MBA—one that continues to prepare students not just for careers, but for leadership in a globalized world.