Hanna Llanca: An International Business Changemaker
Hanna Llanca, a senior majoring in International Business and President of the International Business Student Association, embodies a blend of business acumen and a passion for people. Her journey into International Business was driven by her desire to connect these two worlds.
Hanna’s study abroad experience in Chile, supported by a CGB Global Changemaker Scholarship, allowed her to immerse herself fully in the local culture. She traveled across Latin America, took dance classes, and embraced the local music, food, and culture. As the first student from UT to study in Chile in over six years, she ventured into a region rich in culture and often overlooked by others.
Hanna says her time in Chile was transformative. Despite being 25% Chilean, Hanna had never visited the country. Meeting her family there for the first time and understanding her heritage deeply impacted her. Her Intercultural Management class with Dr. Deirdre Mendez was a game-changer, she says, teaching her the importance of not being judgmental and preparing her for cultural differences.
Hanna discovered that family values and work-life balance are paramount in Chilean culture, where many businesses are family-owned. This experience made her more grateful and reinforced the importance of pursuing a career she is passionate about. Hanna credits her mentor, Noël Ellison, a Partner at KPMG, and the resources provided by CGB with guiding her. “Having a cheerleader who is knowledgeable and encouraging is invaluable,” she says. Hanna encourages others to seek mentorship through CGB, emphasizing that real-world experiences abroad can truly change the world.
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