Each year, an outstanding International Business student is chosen for an exclusive “student spotlight” interview. This year’s interviewee is Ella Cooper - an International Business major and Spanish minor at Appalachian State University.
Ella brings a strong entrepreneurial background and global outlook to her college experience. Raised in a small South Carolina town, she grew up working in her family’s car dealership and local boutique, knowing early on that business would be her path.
She chose Appalachian partly for its mountain setting and her father’s positive experience as a student, but also to pursue her goal of becoming fluent in Spanish, making International Business the perfect fit.
Ella has made the most of her time at App State through international experiences. As a Holland Fellow, she explored Vietnam and Cambodia, gaining insight into global business practices. She also later studied abroad in Granada, Spain, where she reached Spanish fluency and experienced daily life with a host family, an experience she calls the highlight of her college career.
Related: 2023 Holland Fellows Cohort Announced
Studying abroad taught Ella confidence and independence, pushing her to grow both personally and professionally. Her advice to new students is to build relationships with professors early, as they’re one of the best resources App has to offer.
Ella’s story reflects the value of stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing every opportunity, something Appalachian’s International Business program continues to support. You can view her full interview and see a transcript of her responses here.
William R. Holland International Impact Exchange Program
Holland Fellows explore Asia and the US in a changing world. A unique international learning journey allows participants to explore business design and comprehensive internationalization strategies by visiting with organizations and individuals shaping the business landscapes across Asia and the world. Fellows are selected through a competitive process for admission to the program. Learn more at business.appstate.edu/hollandfellows
Walker College of Business International Programs
The Walker College of Business encourages students to study abroad and provides a variety of short-term international programs designed to develop international business skills and intercultural knowledge. These faculty-led programs have proven to be invaluable for many students. Scholarships are available. Fluency in a second language is not required, and students can earn credit toward their degree. For more information on future opportunities, please contact Meredith Church Pipes, Global & Civic Engagement Specialist for Walker College of Business International Programs. Learn more at business.appstate.edu/international.
The Walker College of Business also offers students the opportunity to develop international business skills through either a BSBA in International Business or an International Business Minor. The International Business (IB) major was established in 2002. The major is designed to prepare students for a career in international business or public service through the development of competency in a foreign language and cultural awareness, and providing students with specialized international business skills. For more information on degree requirements, please visit International Business (BSBA).
Article by: Kristen Cheek, MBA 2025
Ella Cooper
Ella Cooper