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From Rome to Bologna: University of Sussex Business students explore economics, management, and culture in Italy
By: Serena Mitchell
Last updated: Friday, 6 June 2025
Economics students visiting the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
Economics students visitItalian Confederation of Crafts Trades and SMEs
Econ students in lecture, Rome
Econ students visit UN FAO, Rome
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:
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The value of international networking: At Rome’s La Sapienza University, economics students connected with peers and postgrads, exploring future study and internship opportunities. In Bologna, management students engaged with Italian students and academics around ESG and innovation.
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The connection between culture and business: Whether admiring Bologna’s historic architecture or walking under Rome’s ancient porticos, students discovered how local traditions shape everything from customer expectations to business branding.
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Respect for global challenges: From food security and SME resilience to ESG integration and luxury manufacturing, students came away with a deeper understanding of the complexity—and opportunity—within their fields.
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
Both trips were a powerful reminder of the Business School’s mission to foster internationally aware, critically engaged graduates. By linking theory with global practice, these immersive experiences are preparing Sussex students not just for exams—but for real-world impact.
Or, as Abrianna Masri (BSc Business and Management Studies) said simply, “It was fascinating to see the difference between luxury and non-luxury management up close. You can’t learn that from a textbook.”
Interested in gaining global experience while studying with us?
Explore our courses and international study opportunities to see how far your degree can take you.