Professional Development Takeaway  Throughout my 2 weeks in Pittsburgh, I was inspired by the work of every individual and organization that we visited. I learned about the concept of social entrepreneurship, a field that I did not know existed, through discussion with Leigh Solomon Pugliano, founder of the Equity | Impact Center, and developed a…

Throughout my time in Ireland, I am interested in learning about the Irish-British conflict and how this conflict impacts current day Irish culture. After a quick google search, I found that the conflict climaxed on January 30, 1972 when British troops suppressed a riot at an Irish civil rights march. The massacre of 26 unarmed citizens…

Connection to Ireland  After a quick phone call with my mom, I learned that I have 3 great-great grandparents that were born in Ireland! My mother’s maiden name is McVicker, and my grandmother’s is O’Connell, and a few of my cousins are red heads so I knew that I had Irish heritage but was not sure…

Business Development Assessment  Blanket & Board’s business model is attractive in the event planning industry. The CEO, Tierra Thorne, saw a market for outdoor activities at the start of the pandemic and capitalized on the opportunity. Because the company is booked for the entire summer, the company could further develop by expanding their business to…

Benefits/Limitations of the Subscription Model  This local brewery benefits from its subscription service because their business model encourages customers to make a commitment to the company, resulting in a reliable source of revenue for First Sip Brew Box. By locking customers in, First Sip Brew Box has a unique opportunity, they are able to enhance the customer experience month…

Study Music  Because I find music distracting while studying and writing, I have found other ways to focus my attention while working on assignments. Throughout high school, I learned that keeping a packed schedule enables me to be as productive as possible with the time I have. For example, my grades were consistent throughout the…

Business Issue with Competing Pressure  The U.S. Department of States Bureau of Political-Military Affairs oversees arm transfers to improve U.S. forces and address national security challenges. Foreign Military Sales contribute approximately $55 billion per year in sales of defense equipment to US allies and partners. The competing pressure of the arm industry results in contractors…

Barrels to Beethoven, an organization founded in 2014 by Leigh Solomon Pugliano, serves to preserve black art through steelpan education. The programs created by this organization allow children to engage in art history by learning how to play an instrument that ultimately acts as “an anchor of community connectedness”. The social mission of Barrels to Beethoven is…

So far, my participation in the Haller Global Honors Program has pushed me both personally and professionally, as I practice networking and communicating with unfamiliar faces in the Pitt community. Reaching out and keeping in contact with others is not one of my natural strengths, but I have been encouraged by my mentors to practice…