From the Coast to the Canopy: GCSU Business Students Explore Corporate Sustainability in Peru

This summer, 12 students from the J. Whitney Bunting College of Business & Technology at Georgia College & State University embarked on an unforgettable journey through Peru. The study abroad program, led by faculty member Jehan El-Jourbagy, challenged students to examine the intersection of global commerce, environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.

The cohort began their experiential learning in the coastal capital of Lima, diving straight into corporate responsibility. 

"Our time in Lima was an excellent introduction to sustainability in Latin America," El-Jourbagy said. "We met with business leaders, such as David Jenss at KPA, Giancarlo Castillejos Castañeda at DP World and Stephania Spitale Campos Cervera at Perú Sostenible."

From the bustling capital, the group transitioned to the ecotourism hub of Puerto Maldonado in the Peruvian Amazon. Students learned in the jungle, firsthand, how hospitality can align with conservation. Student Ava Dente recalled a rainy trek to Lake Sandoval. 

"The Monte Amazonico Lodge combines tourism with sustainability through features including solar panels, well water and meals made with local ingredients," she said. "It demonstrates how lodges can accommodate customer needs without interfering with the ecosystem."

Maeve Gallentine agreed, noting that a canopy walk high above the forest floor "highlighted the importance of protecting these environments, as the Amazon plays a critical role in global biodiversity, carbon storage and climate regulation."

The final leg of the trip took the students into the Andes to explore Cusco and the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu, where modern logistics met historic preservation. Standing among the ruins, student Sarah Griffith observed the delicate balance of managing global tourism. 

"Visible signs of erosion can still be seen today," Griffith shared. "Today, only 4,000 people are allowed to visit in a day ... All these initiatives are in an effort to protect the history and sacredness of Machu Picchu."

In Cusco, the group studied ancient infrastructure and local economics, witnessing the massive Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun). "Experiencing such a significant cultural celebration firsthand highlighted both the festival’s importance to Peruvian identity and its appeal to visitors," student Jasmine Smith said.  

"Seeing how the Incas optimized logistics and built durable structures hundreds of years ago gives us some fantastic takeaways to bring back to our business studies," student Watson Smith said.

Reflecting on the whirlwind two-week journey across three distinct regions, student Macey McElwaney summed up the ultimate value of the trip.

"These past two weeks have challenged us, broadened our perspectives and reminded us that some of the greatest lessons happen outside the classroom," she said."