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wants to do reverse trade missions, inviting foreign companies tothe U.S. to meet with their Vermont counterparts in an effort tofacilitate trade; and he has plans for an international trade summit,possibly on China, in the summer of 2005. Not only will studentshave a chance to play a role in these activities, but Myers expectsthe collaboraton to create expanded possibilities for research projectsand, ultimately, to present students with career opportunities.A couple of top international business students have alreadybenefited from the close relationship that Champlain has with thestate. Elizabeth Claflin ’03, who went to Asia with the VermontChamber of Commerce early last year to attend educational fairs,and Laura Herrema ’03 joined the VCC on a trade mission toChina and Taiwan in October. Along with representatives fromVermont businesses, Lieutenant Governor Brian Dubie andSecretary of Commerce Kevin Dorn were on the mission, whichVCC Vice President of International Trade Curtis Picard says washighly rewarding both in terms of deals done and behind-thescenesnetworking.“The interns were key partners in helping make this trip a success,”says Picard. In the summer, Herrema did her internshiphelping prepare for the mission, recruiting businesses, doingresearch and assisting with event management details. While inAsia, Claflin and Herrema helped with logistics, took notes andlearned a lot about how business is really done in a foreign culture.The students found themselves in some intimidating positions—tellingstate officials and high-powered CEOs where theyneeded to be and when (“like herding cats,” Picard says) andattending a private dinner hosted by the Taiwanese government. “Iwas meeting people that an intern has no business meeting,just because of who we were with,” says Claflin. But according toPicard, they rose to the occasion. “It’s a joy to work with[Champlain] students,” he says. “They’re not only very capable,but have skills that are immediately applicable to the businesscommunity.”It’s hands-on opportunities like these that give them that edge.“This kind of experience is invaluable,” adds Picard. “Anytime studentsare able to work overseas it gives them skills that a personwho’s been in the workforce for the last ten years doesn’t necessarilypossess. It really gives them a leg up in their future careers.”Which is exactly what Claflin has discovered. Deep into herjob search, she had people calling the lieutenant governor for a reference.“He’s on my side, batting for me. A lot of companies thatI’m looking at are saying, ‘We don’t normally hire grads right outof college, but we’re interested in you,’” she says. “It’s a tremendousadvantage.”°Champlain View | Spring 200421