RISEBA Students’ Experience in an International Environment
In the spring of 2026, students from the European Business Studies programme went on an ERASMUS+ study trip to Caen, Normandy. Over the course of ten days, our students combined academic knowledge with practical experience in an international environment, while also getting to know French culture and the business environment.
In April 2026, students of the European Business Studies programme, having completed a two-year French language course, embarked on an ERASMUS+ study trip to Caen, located in Normandy, France. Programme director Inese Kukle accompanied the students throughout the trip, and RISEBA’s Head of External Relations, Gaļina Zilgalve, joined them for the first few days.
This study trip marks a significant transition in the students’ educational journey – from general French language learning to professional and business French. As part of the programme, students participated in activities related to the “Doing Business with French” course and visited a local Normandy company, gaining insight into a real-world business environment.
The learning process continued outside the classroom as well – in Caen and its surroundings, students explored French culture, history, and the region’s economic development. This authentic environment allowed them to combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience, deepening their understanding of the international business environment.
However, this trip was more than just a study trip. It became a significant team-building experience, where students and instructors got to know each other outside the usual academic setting.
As programme director Inese Kukle emphasizes:
“For me, it’s much more than just a study trip. It’s an opportunity to be with my students in a different setting – to see them more authentic, braver, more open…
It’s an opportunity to feel the group dynamics and see how friendships, ideas, and self-confidence take shape… To see how they grow, how they open up to the world – and how the world opens up to them.
And this trip confirmed to me once again – my students are outstanding. Each one is unique in their own way, talented, and with a bright future ahead.
I don’t just believe it – I know it!”
Meanwhile, Līva, a third-year student in the European Business Studies programme, emphasizes the importance of practical experience:
“This ten-day ERASMUS+ exchange in France was a very valuable experience. At EM Normandie University, we learned from outstanding professors about both business and the Normandy region, which helped us better understand the local environment. I especially remember the practical lecture where we simulated a real-life business situation – in various roles, we conducted negotiations with ‘investors’ and officials to secure funding for a project.”
“The off-campus lecture in the city of Caen was also interesting; there we learned about both history and the workings of institutions, as well as visiting an apple orchard and a processing plant. This helped us better understand cross-cultural differences and how to build business relationships with the French. Overall, it was a wonderful opportunity to broaden my horizons and gain a new perspective on both my studies and the business environment in Europe while studying in the European Business Studies program.”
This year’s ERASMUS+ study trip once again demonstrated the students’ motivation, ability to adapt to an international environment, and capacity to be part of a dynamic, united community.
