MEsIM GJU Intercultural Onboarding Trip to Amman, Jordan | A Journey Through Culture, Innovation, and History
The faculties Master Entrepreneurship and Management Students trip to Jordan was a comprehensive exploration of intercultural learning, entrepreneurship, and historical landmarks, leaving the first cohort of MEsIM students with knowledge and experiences to apply in their academic and professional journeys.
- Day 1 began with an intercultural onboarding session attended by participants from six nationalities. The discussions focused on the impact of cultural differences and how they can create boundaries or opportunities when navigated thoughtfully. Following this, we visited the Makerspace in Amman, a facility equipped with tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, welding machines, and robotic arms. The space is dedicated to supporting startups and entrepreneurs, offering resources to help turn innovative ideas into reality.
- Day 2 started with a visit to the German Jordanian University (GJU) campus in downtown Amman. In the German Lounge, participants discussed cultural differences and their implications. A guided tour of downtown Amman followed, where we explored the Roman Theatre and the city's bustling streets. Back at GJU, a roundtable coffee session featured four guest entrepreneurs sharing insights about their businesses and Jordan's startup ecosystem. The speakers included the founder of a Jordanian coffee shop chain, a UK-based research professor, and an EdTech entrepreneur. The day concluded with a group dinner at a local restaurant.
- Day 3 included a visit to Orange FabLab, where representatives presented the variety of support they provide to startups, such as legal aid, technical assistance, and workspaces. Entrepreneurs also have access to specialized labs for executing their ideas. Following this, we visited JEDCO, where a presentation detailed the grants available for small and medium-sized enterprises to support their growth and development.
- Day 4 was spent at GJU's Madaba campus, where Dr. Daniel led an e-portfolio session. Participants discussed entrepreneurial role models, shared professional networks, and analyzed the journeys of guest entrepreneurs from the previous roundtable session. Later, the group visited the Dead Sea, providing an opportunity to observe the natural landscape and document the experience.
- Day 5 concluded with a visit to Petra, one of the world's most renowned archaeological sites.The group explored the ancient city for several hours, examining its structures and capturing its intricate design through photography.
There is no limit to what can be achieved when a group embraces and understands the diverse cultural backgrounds of its members. By accepting and evaluating these differences, students from both cohorts of the sister program foster strong bonds, creating an environment conducive to personal and professional growth. The diversity within the group serves as a valuable resource, enabling students to leverage varied perspectives for their individual development and collective success. This network of like-minded future entrepreneurs provides significant opportunities for professional collaboration and long-term partnerships. Furthermore, participation in such a group nurtures students' self-perception as future entrepreneurs, helping them develop the resilience, mindset, and personality traits essential for entrepreneurial success. Through this process, students gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they may encounter and recognize the potential of their network as a foundation for future growth and innovation. By harnessing these differences and shared aspirations, the group creates a dynamic platform for fostering entrepreneurial spirit and achieving limitless possibilities.-
