A new semester has started at the University of Colorado Denver, and for many international students, the summer of 2013 was one of their best in memory.  Just ask Mihir Rathod. A graduate student from India who’s studying information systems, Rathod wisely chose an elective class that provided access to business venues and influential business people in one of his favorite cities—London.

“The study abroad program, London Calling, is a wonderful opportunity for anyone in the Business School, or for any major.  It combines many practical lessons across a variety of business disciplines with the central focus on sports and entertainment”, explained Rathod.

London Calling: Global Sports and Entertainment Management Maymester program is offered through the Business School and the Office of Global Education.  The growth of the sports industry has accounted for more than $250 billion every year; it is quickly converging with the entertainment industry. Beneath the surface glamor of these industries, serious business is taking place. Sports teams employ executive officers in the same way that many Fortune 500 companies do, and professionals are required to understand the specifics of this growing field.

Wendy Guild, Director of CU Denver’s Sports and Entertainment Management program, has been leading students’ exploration of the business of sport in the U.K. for the past four years. Students are exposed to the latest in new media, real-estate development, marketing, ethics and finance. They leave prepared to make an impact and get ahead quickly in a fast-growing sector of the economy.

Although this was not Rathod’s first visit to England, this trip was different from the usual family  visit. This time, he was given the opportunity to experience London through the eyes of a professional business student while gaining access to international organizations throughout this global city.

“Growing up, I only dreamed of visiting historic sporting venues like Wembley Stadium, Lord’s Cricket ground, Chelsea Football Club, or Wimbledon. This trip gave me the chance to live out those dreams and to gain exclusive access to these facilities and the influential business people behind them.”

When asked about his favorite part of the trip, Rathod noted the insightful speakers as well as the chance to watch England vs. Ireland in a friendly football match at Wembley Stadium. He enjoyed meeting and traveling with other CU Denver students and faculty/staff. Global Studies programs facilitate interactions that forge bonds between American and international students; these friendships return with the students when they resume everyday life on the Denver campus.

Rathod plans to graduate spring of 2014 and would like to pursue a career as a Business Intelligence Analyst, utilizing the real world exposure and international experience he has gained as a CU Denver Master’s student in Denver and London.

He also gave high praise to the program’s faculty leader, Wendy Guild, “She produced an engaging schedule and was very supportive throughout the trip. Anyone considering going should do everything they can to do so.”

For more information on the London Calling program, as well as other global studies programs, visit:  ucdenver.edu/studyabroad.