By Jillian Hammell
Assistant Features Editor
Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) traveled to the tropics for its tenth annual Bahamas trip. At the start of the new year, SIFE members showcased their business and education knowledge to local Bahamians. The members were also involved in several community service projects.
Forty-two students, two Board of Trustees members and the advisor of the program, Todd Palmer, associate professor of management, left for the ten-day trip on January 2.
Although the blazing sun and clear blue water surrounded the students, their busy schedule did not permit them to enjoy a vacation-like mentality, for work had to be done.
“On the first Saturday, all participating members of SIFE engaged in community service,” said Jenna Jones, a senior finance major.
Jones, one of the SIFE leaders and co-president on the trip, organized transportation for the students.
“There were a group of leaders that attended the trip to make sure everything was taken care of,” Jones said. “We learned to collaborate ideas and work together while planning the schedule.”
The packed schedule for SIFE members consisted of several tasks, including business seminars, technology expos and volunteer work.
Cody Clifford, a junior marketing major, was involved in several business seminars while abroad.
“For three nights during the week, we presented business advice to local entrepreneurs,” Clifford said. “Whether they were restaurant owners, bakers, or jewelry-makers, we expressed our knowledge to the best of our ability.”
Although the club involves financial and business education, every major can participate and learn from the program, according to Clifford.
“The education majors were able to find their niche in the school setting,” Clifford said. The sports studies majors helped out with local recreational events.”
He also added that these students traveled to local schools to interact with and teach students in the classroom.
“At the Beacon School (a center for students with disabilities), many students helped with a Special Olympics event that allowed students to be involved in a recreational and fun activity,” Clifford said.
Erica Caso, a senior sports studies major, attended the trip for the first time and was able to volunteer at different schools, including Beacon.
“The kids were so excited when we were there,” Caso said. “They greeted us with their smiles and hugs. It was an amazing feeling and experience.”
The experience not only provided beautiful scenery throughout the course of the trip, but also immersed students in business and public speaking opportunities that will help them with an upcoming project.
“Some of the students that came along for the trip enrolled in the Clare 208 World Views class with Dr. Palmer,” Jones said. “Those students must compose a project that involves working with local businesses in the Olean community. Through the Bahamas trip, the students can use their new knowledge and skill to conduct a great project.”
SIFE members returned back home just in time for the spring semester at Bonas. The students have a lot of work ahead of them, however memories of their recent trip will be a lasting reminder that they made an impact in Bahamas and have the ability to make an impact at Bonaventure.
