Six Alabama A&M University students recently returned from a weeklong academic and cultural exchange at Aschaffenburg University of Applied Sciences in Bavaria, marking the institution’s first participation in the university’s International Project Week.
The visit, held April 18–25, is part of the College of Business and Public Affairs’ expanding global engagement efforts and builds on a growing partnership between Alabama A&M and the German institution. The program began with virtual modules March 19, connecting AAMU students with peers from across Europe ahead of the in-person experience.
The six participating students joined 11 students from ESTA Belfort, a business and technology school in France, 13 students from Aschaffenburg University and four Finnish exchange students in a collaborative learning environment focused on international business, cultural exchange and interdisciplinary teamwork.
“This was an unforgettable experience that offered meaningful academic, cultural and personal growth,” said Dominique Jones, an MBA student. “It deepened my understanding of global communication and international business practices.”
Students were selected following a January webinar and competitive application process that included essay submissions. Four of the six participants received passport support through AAMU Student Affairs. Funding for the trip was made possible through external industry support, assistance from the Office of Marketing and Public Relations and student contributions.
Participants included Dominique Jones, a Master of Business Administration student from Memphis, Tennessee; Tylor Steele, a Master of Business Administration student from Madison, Alabama; Jonay Latimer, a junior business administration management major from Atlanta; Saniya Poston, a junior accounting major from Cordova, Tennessee; Shakira Johnson, a junior finance major from Atlanta; and Tylynn Fleming, a freshman accounting major from Sunshine, Louisiana.
The program was overseen by Dr. Xia (Amy) Zhang, associate professor of accounting and international program coordinator in the College of Business and Public Affairs, who accompanied the students throughout the experience.
During the week, students engaged in academic symposiums, group presentations, workshops and networking events designed to strengthen intercultural communication and global business competencies. Activities also included cultural excursions in Aschaffenburg and the surrounding Rhine-Main metropolitan region.
Zhang emphasized the program’s role in preparing students for global careers and expanding the University’s international reach.
“This experience allows our students to step beyond the classroom and truly engage with the global business community while building meaningful international relationships,” said Zhang.
“I learned the importance of patience, cultural awareness and open-mindedness from this experience,” said Shakira Johnson. “More than just an academic program, it was life-changing that improved my communication abilities, broadened my perspective, and gave me lessons and experiences that I will use in both my academic and professional endeavors.”