While most of us look forward to the break from homework, papers to be written, and book chapters to be read, and toward the opportunity to reconnect with friends and families, some will have a different experience during the holidays. Some of our students at the Byrd School of Business are far away from their homes and may not be able to travel back to their home countries. Others have found comfort in the safety and security our university offers.
Whether because they can not go home or because they would rather not go there, I encourage you check in on classmates. You may want to reach out to one of our international students and invite them to your home to participate in your family rituals and meet new friends. That student who seems less than excited about going home may welcome an invitation to hang out with you for a few days.
We at the Byrd School of Business have as our mission to produce “…successful, principled leaders with a global perspective.” The success and principles we speak of are not just rooted in business or financial matters. We must also include compassion and empathy when discussing success and principles. Offering your home (check with the other residents first) and companionship is a way to further develop the qualities that will not only make you successful in business, but also a way of being that will lead to being successful and principled in your life.
Wishing all well!
Dean Miles K. Davis, Ph.D.