Come Along as Spring DBis Head to Europe and the Tropics

Are you ready to immerse yourself in international business issues in a global city or amidst the tropical biodiversity of Central America? If so, don't miss the chance to register for a spring Doing Business In … course for spring. These three courses are the perfect way to travel somewhere fantastic, learn a lot and earn credit while having an unforgettable experience.

Spring Break is just around the corner, but don't worry if you don't have plans. Spots are still available in the 1.5 credit Costa Rica and Italy programs, both of which run over spring break, March 11-16.

A new program with a unique academic focus, DBi Costa Rica, focuses on sustainable businesses in Latin America. Hosted at Stern's partner school INCAE, the course will include company visits and lectures from top faculty on sustainable development, social enterprise in the region, eco-tourism and the Costa Rican economy. There's no better place to experience the ideal blend of biodiversity with Costa Rica's entrepreneurial activities that contribute to the well-being of all its inhabitants.

But it is spring break, after all, and you'll surely want to reap the benefits of being in a tropical getaway. During this DBi, students will have a day trip to the beach at Playa Jaco, a renowned surfing spot as well as a visit to a top tourist site, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, famous for its waterfalls and wildlife. Other highlights include a tour of the Costa Rican Museum of Art and plenty of chances for local color.

If your idea of a good time leans more towards shopping than surfing, think about DBi Italy: Luxury Retail and Branding. Taught by popular faculty from SDA Bocconi in Milan as well as experts from the industry, students will examine all business aspects of the luxury brand – from fashion to jewels and yachts in lectures and corporate visits. The course includes a two-day retail field survey at the top stores in Milan's high-end fashion zone, the "Golden Triangle," around Montenapoleone. Yes, you read right: this is a course that requires you to visit Prada, Gucci, Armani and Dolce & Gabbana! How could you miss this opportunity?

While in Milan, students will also have the chance to socialize with sophisticated Bocconi students and explore the canal-front cafes, hip boutiques and famous Duomo of this city. You will never order another soggy plate of nachos at Half Pint after discovering the ritual of Italian aperitivo, the seemingly mandatory happy hour custom where the purchase of one drink includes a delicious buffet of Milan's upscale version of bar food.

If your Spring Break plans are set but you're enticed by DBi as a way to expand your global experience during your MBA, this is your chance to explore the two faces of Istanbul in May, after classes end.

From its majestic perch bridging Asia and Europe, Istanbul lures visitors with its reputation as a cultural melting pot, which can be evidenced through its architecture and intriguing traces of life centuries ago. After dark, the city surges ahead in time, offering a contrasting view: as a contemporary city that comes alive through its nightlife and rich culinary culture.

During DBi Istanbul: The Economic, Political and Cultural Crossroads of the World, a 3-credit course that runs May 20-30, students will relish the chance to learn about the history of the Ottoman empire and the factors that are shaping modern Turkey. Lectures on emerging economies, emigration to immigration, investments, government and political economy from professors at Bogazici University will be complemented by company visits. Discover why the BBC observes that with Turkey's "growing economic clout has come a new assertiveness that has led some to wonder if it harbors neo-Ottoman ambitions to resurrect its role as a dominant power in the Middle East." Based on what you absorb in Istanbul, you can decide for yourself.

The DBi class will also visit the vibrant Grand Bazaar, once the center of trade of the Ottoman Empire, and take a guided tour of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. During free time, students can explore the historical treasures of the Ottoman Empire. Istanbul's must-see sights include the Middle Eastern architecture of Topkapi Palace, royal home to the Ottoman Sultans for several centuries and the iconic, Byzantine Hagia Sophia, the former mosque turned museum.

For more information on all of these programs – detailed schedules, syllabi and program fees – visit our website: http://www.stern.nyu.edu/AcademicAffairs/International/DBI or email us with any questions at intl@stern.nyu.edu. Then consider adding one of these DBi courses through the online registration system.

Don't miss the chance to expand your global mission by immersing yourself abroad. Wherever DBi takes you this spring, there is a lot to learn, explore and enjoy.