Page 34 - SMART2021_Symposium DRAFT

Student Reflections on SMART

SMART offered a real-world perspective that, when combined with my classes in Dyson,
allowed me to gain a holistic view of my purpose. Through SMART, I tested a desired
career choice, and the experience helped me better understand the types of professional roles
that would suit me best after Cornell.
(Isabelle Noelsaint | Zambia: Palabana Fisheries | Applied Economics and Management)

Working with Tei has been one of the most inspiring and transformative learning
experiences. The SMART program's supportive and collaborative culture allowed
me to not only learn about female social entrepreneurship but also expand my
understanding of development through my peers' work.
(Valentina Xu | Kenya: Azuri Health Ltd. | Hotel Administration)

Although we were not able to travel to visit our field partners this year, I was still able
to gain insight into an exciting new agricultural field, broadening my horizons and
deepening my understanding of agricultural markets in developing countries. We were
so fortunate to be able to speak with some amazing people through the connections of
the SMART program. (Shayna Krasnoff | Kenya: M-Farm | Global Development)

Despite working virtually, due to COVID-19, I'm truly grateful that my analytical and
teamwork skills were enriched in a practical, real-world project in emerging markets.
(Giwon Kim | Indonesia: nDalem Cokelat | Cornell Institute for Public Affairs)

Being a student in the SMART program, and more specifically on the Fibered Fresh
team, has been an invaluable experience. Working alongside professors, students, and
entrepreneurs of this caliber has been an incredibly thought-provoking and eye-
opening opportunity for me. This was my first time working in an international
setting, and I have learned and grown significantly.
(Annelies Parke | Kenya: Azuri Health Ltd. | Development Sociology)

The SMART program has given me an unparalleled opportunity to work with clients
and teammates from all around the world. I have learned so much from taking lively
in-class discussions and applying it to the Indonesian chocolate industry. This hands-
on, collaborative experience has been the highlight of my Cornell experience.
(Jing Wen Soh | Indonesia: nDalem Cokelat | Applied Economics & Management)

The SMART Program has been one of my best experiences at Cornell. I've learned an incredible
amount from critically examining conceptual frameworks to developing marketing materials. The
SMART program has given me the opportunity to develop my skills as a researcher in the field of
global development, learn more about long-term business strategy and design, and to improve my
ability as a presenter of complex information. The greatest thing about the SMART program for me
has been the people.
(Matthew Sorge | Rwanda: The CARL Group | International Agriculture and Rural Development)