Lessons in Leadership, Culture, and Connection on the Ireland Immersion

As I reflect on our recent Executive MBA immersion in Ireland, I am filled with gratitude and pride. This journey was not only an opportunity to explore Irish business and culture but also a moment of personal and professional growth. I stepped outside my comfort zone in many ways, and I am deeply thankful for the courage and the opportunity to do so.

When I first applied to the Notre Dame Global EMBA program, I almost let fear hold me back. After years of avoiding international travel, the idea of three required global immersions was daunting. But with faith and determination, I chose to lean into the uncomfortable and trust the process. On the flight to Dublin, my first international trip in more than two decades, I listened to my gospel playlist, But God, on repeat. The music calmed my nerves, reminded me to let go and let God, and helped me start the journey with peace and purpose.

Once there, I quickly adjusted to a new rhythm and culture. From Ireland’s energy-conscious hotels to the vibrant streets of Dublin, every detail reflected a thoughtful and sustainable approach to living and working. Our group walked nearly everywhere, creating countless opportunities to connect, reflect, and share insights between classes and company visits. By the end of each day, I was confident I had exceeded my step goal several times over.

Our days were full and purposeful. Mornings began with a traditional Irish breakfast and lively conversations with classmates before walking to our sessions at Trinity College Business School or Notre Dame’s O’Connell House. Afternoons were spent engaging with Irish and global organizations, including IDA Ireland, AIG Ireland, and Dogpatch Labs. One of the highlights was a fireside chat with Stryker Ireland, where executives shared insights into their business culture and leadership philosophy.

Through these sessions, I gained a deep appreciation for Ireland’s role in global business and the values that drive its people — humility, hard work, and pride. Each company visit offered lessons not only in business strategy and innovation but also in leadership grounded in community and integrity.

Outside of class, the immersion offered something equally valuable: connection. The relationships I formed with classmates during group projects, shared meals, or casual walks through Dublin became some of the most meaningful aspects of the trip. We learned as much from one another as we did from the organizations we studied. These moments of vulnerability and shared experience strengthened our cohort and reminded me of what makes the Notre Dame EMBA truly special: a community that feels like family.

One of the most moving experiences of the week took place at the O’Connell House chapel, where I saw a prayer engraved along the walls:

“Christ before me. Christ in every ear that hears me. Christ with me. Christ behind me. Christ below me. Christ above me. Christ in every eye that sees me. Christ in me.”

This prayer captured not only my faith but also the spirit of connection that defined the entire immersion: the balance between our individual purpose and our relationships with others.

When applying to the University of Notre Dame Executive MBA program, one of the slides in the application deck asked me to summarize who I am. I said I’m mother of five children aged 1-14, a daughter, a wife, a sister, a friend, a colleague, a cancer surgeon, and most importantly, a child of God. I can now add to the list: a University of Notre Dame Executive MBA student and a world traveler.

To God be the glory. Go Irish.