Annual Embassy Day Provides Immersive Global Opportunity for Students Without Leaving the Country
Nearly 80 Robert H. Smith School of Business students visited embassies along Washington’s Embassy Row for the Center for Global Business’s annual Embassy Day, gaining firsthand insight into global economies, trade relationships and business cultures from representatives of nine countries.
Distinguished Speakers in International Business Event Shines A Light on Synthetic Biology, Economic Security and More
Erik Peterson of Kearney outlined five “global wildcards” shaping 2026-2031 at the Center for Global Business Distinguished Speakers in International Business Series at the Smith School. He cited geopolitical instability, economic fragmentation, artificial intelligence and synthetic biology as forces reshaping business and government.
Join the Center for Global Business in this gallery-style poster competition featuring students who participated in short-term programs abroad during the 2026 winter break.
All are encouraged to attend. No registration required.
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Register for Careers Crossing Borders: The Trek, a full-day experience featuring site visits to international companies and organizations across Maryland on Thursday, April 9. Students will explore global career pathways firsthand at companies including Tenable and The Terminal Corporation. Additional site visits forthcoming and more information will be provided upon registration.
Transportation and lunch will be provided.
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The Careers Crossing Borders: Global Business & Leadership Forum is a full-day event connecting students with senior leaders and global employers through an executive keynote, industry panels, intentional networking and a mini career fair focused on global business careers and leadership development.
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Maryland Businesses Express Cautious Optimism for 2026 Following a Rough 2025
Maryland businesses faced rising costs, federal workforce cuts and new tariffs in 2025, but a statewide survey shows cautious optimism for early 2026. Firms reported weaker performance yet increased investment, while structural challenges continue to weigh on the state’s business climate.
The Grand Global Challenges Competition (GGCC) invites UMD undergraduate and graduate students to explore ethical and sustainable business solutions aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Hosted by the Center for Global Business, in collaboration with the Center for Social Value Creation and the School of Public Health, this internal case competition prepares students to apply ethical reasoning to real-world global challenges.
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Embassy Day is a signature Smith School event that immerses business students in global cultures and practices. Through visits to various embassies, participants gain firsthand insights into international markets and develop the global mindset essential for future business leaders.
Embassy visits include Azerbaijan, Brazil, Chile, Egypt, Germany, Ireland, Philippines, Slovak Republic, and Spain.
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Amid Competitive Job Market, International Skills Give Students an Edge
New research from the Center for Global Business shows that study abroad programs enhance students’ career outcomes—leading to quicker job placement, higher salaries, and stronger global skills—highlighting how international experiences help graduates stand out in a competitive, tech-driven job market.
Through this interactive exercise, learn key skills for being successful in today’s global business settings. Pizza and Smith School swag will be provided to participants.
This activity is hosted by MPO and SMSA in collaboration with the Center for Global Business to celebrate International Education Week.
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