1. Collaboration for Innovative Solutions
Collaboration helps groups of people to ideate and construct solutions that may be beyond a single person’s holistic approach. Collectively, we can solve problems more effectively and create real change by weaving in various perspectives. Collaboration is essential in working as future impact entrepreneurs since it brings together different expertise and insights and leads to innovative solutions one person cannot produce. With the support of ISM University of Management and Economics, we got the opportunity to collaborate with students from the USC Marshall School of Business in California, broadening our horizons and giving us new ideas.
Photo 1: EMMIEs and USC Marshall students at ISM
2. Online Engagement and Project Selection
Our collaboration started online with USC Marshall in March 2024. The students learned more about our projects through our pitches and the challenges and objectives we had. It wasn’t easy; EMMIEs work in many different areas, so choosing a project was challenging. The students then browsed through project by project and the tasks we had for them and selected which appealed to them the most. This was the first step that marked the start of our successful work for the next few months.
3. Investigating Problems and Finding Solutions
Once the projects were assigned, the students had to research the problem with us, brainstorm ideas, gather more information, and provide us with the best possible solutions. They explored the root causes of the issues, analyzed potential solutions, and offered valuable contacts, connecting some with experts and resources that could help advance our goals. We had regular discussions, gave feedback, and continuously improved our ideas throughout this process. The students were dedicated and creative and helped our projects move forward.
4. Welcoming USC Marshall Students to Vilnius
After the successful online collaboration, we finally had the opportunity to welcome the students from USC Marshall to Vilnius in May. We could meet in person thanks to the cooperation between ISM and USC. We sat down in this session and had the chance to review the results thoroughly and to hear the presentation of ideas and solutions they had come up with for us. We shared feedback, asked questions, and discussed new ideas from this research. This in-person interaction was good for us in making a better connection and gave us valuable insights that contributed to advancing our goals.
Photo 2: EMMIE student mentoring USC Marshall students
5. Reflections on the Collaboration
Reflecting on our collaboration with USC Marshall University students, it is clear that this work was beneficial for both sides. The exchange of ideas and feedback allowed us to view our projects through a fresh lens, leading to improvements and, for some, innovative solutions. Working with individuals from different cultures and backgrounds is particularly enriching. EMMIE students come from diverse places, and observing how our international cohort engaged with the USC students was fascinating. This multicultural interaction broadens perspectives and gives a sense of community. This experience enhanced our academic and professional skills and highlighted the importance of teamwork. By that, we thank USC Marshall School of Business and their students for their insights and collaborative spirit and ISM University for making this collaboration a memorable and impactful experience possible.
By Mihaela Ivankovic
