International Educational Program in collaboration with Penn State University
Successful Completion of the International Educational Program between AUEB and Penn State University
The International Educational Program jointly organized by the MSc in Human Resource Management (HRM) of the Athens University of Economics and Business (AUEB) and the School of Labor and Employment Relations of Pennsylvania State University (USA) was successfully completed, bringing together students from both institutions.
This comprehensive intercultural initiative demonstrates the MSc in Human Resource Management's strong commitment to internationalization, academic collaboration, outward-looking engagement, and experiential learning.
The program, which combined educational and cultural activities, took place in Athens and Spetses from May 15 to May 24, 2026. Key highlights included:
Welcome and Ice-Breaking Activities
On May 15, 2026, students were welcomed to the AUEB building on Troias Street, where introductory and ice-breaking activities were organized to foster interaction and collaboration among participants.
Educational Visit to adidas
On May 18, 2026, students from the MSc in Human Resource Management, together with their peers from Penn State University, visited adidas. The visit provided a powerful example of how global academic partnerships enhance learning and prepare future leaders for an interconnected world.
More than a corporate tour, the visit served as a masterclass in strategic HR in action. Students had the opportunity to move beyond theory and gain first-hand insights into how leading organizations align HR strategy with business objectives and how people practices become a source of competitive advantage.
Educational Visit to HELLENiQ Energy
On May 19, 2026, students visited HELLENiQ Energy's Aspropyrgos Refinery facilities. The visit offered a valuable opportunity to gain direct exposure to the operations of a leading energy company, explore the realities and challenges of the sector, and participate in an engaging workshop focused on safety—a topic of growing importance in contemporary Human Resource Management.
HR Skills Development Summer Workshop in Spetses
From May 22 to May 24, 2026, the MSc in Human Resource Management participated in the HR Skills Development Summer Workshop hosted at the Anargyrios and Korgialenios School of Spetses.
The workshop offered a highly experiential and international learning experience through collaboration with the Penn State School of Labor and Employment Relations. Students were provided with a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, perspectives, and best practices in Human Resource Management within an international context.
A particularly valuable contribution came from Professor Mark Gough, who clearly explained the concept of *employment at will*—the principle according to which employment relationships in the United States may be terminated by employers at any time and without the requirement to provide cause.
In addition, students participated in an experiential team-building workshop led by Kostas Simatos. Through music and collaboration, participants formed an orchestra, each playing a different musical instrument while working toward a common goal. The activity highlighted the importance of teamwork, coordination, communication, and shared purpose—essential competencies for future HR professionals.
Through this international educational initiative, students gained valuable academic knowledge, practical insights, and intercultural experiences, further strengthening their preparation for successful careers in an increasingly globalized world of work.
