This spring, undergraduate students from the University of Sussex Business School embarked on two inspiring international study trips to Rome and Bologna, immersing themselves in the worlds of economics, management, diplomacy, and luxury branding. Across both visits, students engaged directly with global institutions, iconic Italian brands, and local academic communities—gaining first-hand experience that brought their studies vividly to life. 

Rome: diplomacy, development, and global economics 

Economics students travelled to Rome, where they visited the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Italian Confederation of Crafts Trades and SMEs. These institutions offered insight into how food security, economic development, and small business innovation intersect at a global level. 

Students were especially struck by FAO’s role in coordinating international efforts to combat hunger and support sustainable food systems. “The visit was immersive,” said Sarai Okwirry (BSc Economics). “We had the chance to ask real-time questions and hear directly from staff and interns, including Sussex postgrads working there.” 

Michael Dominguez (BSc Economics) highlighted the “amount of research and diplomacy that goes into decisions” at FAO, while Lucas Kousoulou (BSc Economics)saw the institution as “essential to global human flourishing.” 

Meanwhile, visits to the Confederation of Crafts Trades revealed how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Italy navigate a global economy while preserving local identity. “Meeting small businesses and seeing their niche work was fascinating,” Michael added. 

Bologna: ESG, luxury branding, and cultural intelligence 

At the same time, Management students were exploring Bologna—Italy’s intellectual heart and a centre of excellence for sustainable business and luxury craftsmanship. Through lectures at the University of Bologna, students examined how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are becoming essential to long-term corporate success. 

“From environmental protection to social responsibility, if companies ignore ESG, they face real risks,” said Qing Wang (BSc Business and Management Studies). Curtis Etuk (BSc Accounting and Finance) agreed: “It’s not just about short-term profits anymore. Transparency and sustainability are the way forward.” 

Students also toured the Lamborghini factory and museum, where they witnessed luxury production up close—from hand-stitched car interiors to heritage-led fashion. “The attention to detail and emphasis on tradition were incredible,” said Jessica Lad (BSc Marketing and Management with Psychology). “It showed how luxury brands evolve while staying true to their identity.” 

Shared themes: learning across borders 

Though the Rome and Bologna trips focused on different industries, students across both groups shared common takeaways: 

As Theyazan Sabal (BSc Economics)put it: “You’ve got constant problems from all angles in economics—and the same is true in business. These trips helped me respect the professionals who make bold decisions in these spaces.” 

Shaping the future of global business leaders