First CUAS student at Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program organized within ATHENA European University Alliance

Athena School of Management
Kim Suv, an ICM student was the first CUAS student to take part in an Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program (BIP)
students Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program
Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program with Athena

Kim Suv, an ICM student was the first CUAS student to take part in an Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program (BIP) organized within the ATHENA European University Alliance. This opportunity has not only enriched Kim's academic journey, but has also broadened her horizons, allowing immersion in a diverse, culturally enriching environment.

The 2nd International Summer School on "Sustainability in International Business," hosted by the Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Maribor, proved to be a transformative and enlightening experience. The program occurred virtually on September 8 and onsite in Slovenia from September 11 to 16, 2023. Bringing together 30 students from eight different countries, and representing diverse study programs and academic levels, the Summer School provided a profound understanding of sustainability's critical role in the business world. 

“One of the main highlights of this program was the opportunity to hear from esteemed keynote speakers representing 16 international corporations from various industries and sectors. We learned about the strategic and operational aspects of incorporating green practices into their supply chain values, gaining a valuable understanding of the benefits, challenges, and support mechanisms involved. It was inspiring to witness how international companies had successfully integrated sustainability into their operations, considering not only economic but also social and environmental aspects,” says Kim when reflecting on her experience. Beyond the educational sessions, the program included activities, such as a study tour to a prominent winery and to a major international seaport, Koper, in the coastal region of Slovenia. 

Participating in this ATHENA European University International Summer School has significantly deepened Kim's understanding of sustainability in international business and strengthened her commitment to advocating for sustainable practices.  

Mélissa Pébayle, International Commissioner at the School of Management and working on the cooperation with ATHENA, explained: “Bringing students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds together, letting them experience how internationality and high-level cooperation can contribute to develop solutions that benefit the whole society is one of the main goals and advantages of the ATHENA Alliance. This is why we, at the School of Management, want to encourage students to participate in international activities and to take advantage of any interesting opportunity, in order to open their minds and enrich their study experience. And on top of it, they also gain unique memories.” 

Dr. Thomas Fenzl, Vice Dean, School of Management added his insights about this event: “Considering the current change that the educational sector is experiencing, it is vital CUAS to be part of a European University Alliance, in which close cooperation with business partners plays an important role. Being part of the ATHENA alliance opens up a wide range of opportunities in the areas of research, teaching, and mobility, which can not only add great value for staff and students at the School of Management  but also significantly contribute to the visibility in the academic landscape.”