Basketball and Business
From days building his marketing skills in Offutt School of Business to nights building relationships on the basketball court, Brazil native Guilherme Saad '18 has found his fit at Concordia and shares his advice for making the most of your college experience.
Guilherme Saad ’18, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Why did you choose Concordia?
I always wanted to play basketball and study in the U.S. My aunt has been living in Fargo for 12 years now and she recommended Concordia!
Why study marketing at Concordia?
First I started as an international business major, but then I talked to some friends that took some cool classes in the marketing program and it seemed like a good fit for me.
What is one thing that sets the Offutt School of Business apart?
The Offutt School of Business brings an awesome environment to the students. The layout and lighting make it a place you want to be in even when not in class. I have many times been there as late as 2 a.m. doing homework and working on projects.
What is one of the most important or beneficial things you have learned in your business classes?
I would say that my Career Success class really taught me how to behave professionally in the real world and that was a great benefit to me. Also, my Global Marketing class taught me how to bring a business overseas and that is something I am looking forward to working on in my future.
Have you had any mentors or special professors in your time here?
Yes, I connected with many professors because, to be truthful, they are all awesome. But if I have to pick, my favorites would be Professor Ralph Mehnert for my Business Law class and Professor Eduardo Gargurevich for my Spanish class. Unfortunately, Dr. Gargurevich recently passed away and I am glad that I got to know him. He was a person with great spirit and was full of joy.
What have you been involved with at Concordia?
I have been playing basketball since I was 9 years old. I was happy that I got to continue to play basketball at Concordia. Being part of the basketball team has taught me a lot and I am sure I have made many long-lasting friendships. I will also be taking an internship at The Forum newspaper in Fargo and I am very excited for that.
What has been a highlight of your college career?
A highlight of my college career is definitely being part of the basketball team. I got to see so many places in the state and also have gotten to know so many great coaches like Rich Glas and Grant Hemmingsen. I was lucky to have been a part of this program.
What advice would you give a prospective international student?
My advice would be that you should be involved in as many programs as you can. That is how you make friends and connections. For me it was basketball, but there are plenty of other areas where you can be involved and that definitely will change your experience here.
What surprised you about living in Minnesota?
Being from a tropical country like Brazil, the thing that surprised me the most was the weather and the snow. We don't have snow in Brazil and my first time seeing it was here. That will definitely be something I will remember for the rest of my life.
Published May 2017