Published on 08-21-2024
While flexibility is a hallmark of online programs — allowing students to learn at their own pace, watch lectures asynchronously, and participate in optional live sessions — there’s a unique value in physically being on campus to experience in-person interactions, iconic landmarks and college traditions.
A group of Daniels School of Business online graduate students visited the Purdue campus earlier this month for an immersive on-campus experience. In addition to touring the university’s historic campus, the highlight of the weekend was a 1-credit course, Executive Presence: Leadership with Empathy, taught by lecturers Aryca Woodson and Laura Stef-Praun.
This course provided comprehensive sessions on refining leadership and communication skills. Professors covered cross-cultural communication and feedback techniques, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. Students also learned strategies for managing difficult interpersonal dynamics and assessing their personal communication competencies. Participants shared diverse perspectives and had the chance to ask questions, observe body language, and engage face-to- face.
The weekend also included presentations from two guest speakers: David Teeter, VP of Talent and Organizational Effectiveness at Wabash, who spoke on the significance of emotional awareness in executive presence, and Earl Major, Vice President and Head of HR at Delta Dental of Michigan, who discussed the contrast between empathy and sympathy in the workplace, along with the importance of being comfortable with one’s emotions in a professional setting.
Students enjoyed a welcome reception at Thieme & Wagner Brewery, dinner in downtown Lafayette, a ride on the Boilermaker Special, tours of Mackey Arena and Rohrman Field, and meet-and-greets with Purdue Pete.
This robust experience is not only about education — it’s about truly feeling like a part of a school community, building strong bonds and becoming more empowered in one’s leadership journey.
Steve Bush is a Senior Program Manager with Purdue University Online. A student affairs professional, he spearheads administrative functions for the Daniels School's Online MBA program.
Dilip Chhajed is Associate Dean for Master's and Online Programs and the Executive Director of the undergraduate degree in Integrated Business and Engineering at the Daniels School. He is a Clinical Full Professor of Management.
