Each year, an outstanding International Business student is chosen for an exclusive “student spotlight” interview. This year’s interviewee is Jade Zonato - an International Business major and German minor. She is the first international business major to complete a for-credit domestic internship in international business.
Jade brings a strong cross-cultural perspective and global outlook to her college experience. Born in Brazil and now living in Apex, North Carolina, she grew up traveling around the world as her dad worked hard.
She chose Appalachian State partly for its mountain setting and its closeness to home, but also to pursue her goal of expanding her global perspective, making International Business the perfect path for Jade.
Jade has made the most of her time at App State through international outreach and internship experience. As the Vice President of the International Business Student Association she supports club efforts to provide members with professional development and opportunities to connect with like-minded students. She later became the international business major to take part in a domestic international business internship, in which she was a Government Affairs Intern for UPL Corporation. UPL Corporation is a leading global crop protection and biological solutions company with a focus on sustainable agriculture.
This internship taught Jade to ask questions, put herself out there and be open to new experiences. Her advice to new students is to do the same; keep an open mind and take advantage of all the opportunities you can.
Jade’s story shows that stepping out of your comfort zone and exploring new cultures will help you learn and grow as a person. Appalachian State’s International Business program allows students to do just that, and supports them through that journey.
Walker College of Business Global Engagement
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, Director of Global Engagement for the Walker College of Business. Learn more at business.appstate.edu/global.
The International Business Major
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 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: Maci Farrington-Johnson, MBA 2026
Jade Zonato
Jade Zonato