Graduate and undergraduate Business and Entrepreneurship students spent two weeks in Miami and explored the domestic and international cultural landscapes of the city by experiencing the diverse and global creative industries situated in Miami, including festivals and live events, sports, music, media and film, design, galleries and museums. Through various interactive projects, including on-site visits, group and online discussion forums, and various guest speakers, the students were immersed into Miami’s creative industries. This three-credit-hour course was designed and led by Associate Professor of Instruction Jason Stephens.

Shauna Turnmire
Masters in Arts Management, Second Year

“Miami was such a great experience! We got to visit so many cultural organizations throughout the city and learn how they continue to manage great art facilities. The highlight of this trip was visiting Little Havana. We did a walking tour where we got to taste different foods that are central to this neighborhood and culture. We also visited The Ball and Chain, which is a restaurant/bar that hosts live music every day of the week. We had lunch with the owner and got to learn all about his experience opening and running this venue. Some of us on the trip got to go back one night when they had Salsa night, and we had a blast! I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone and everyone!”

Cory Hart
Music Business Major/Marketing Minor, Junior

“My time in Miami helped me really understand what it takes to be an arts manager. We spoke with all sorts of different managers in the creative industry in Miami. It was very beneficial to hear and learn from people that are currently working in the creative industry. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone looking to learn more about being an arts manager.”

Rana Liu
Masters of Arts Management, Second Year

“Neon signs, pastel swimsuits and the beach, three elements that I used to describe Miami. In the span of two weeks, my view of the city has expanded, and I have now added vibrant cultural scene to my description of the city. Thanks to the field trips and guided tours organized by our professor, Jason Stephens, we had the opportunity to learn the history of Miami and also meet top industry professionals in the arts world. Highlights include meeting the representative of Art Basel Miami, an in-depth tour of the Pérez Art Museum Miami and a historical guided tour of the Art Deco scene in South Beach. I will still picture Miami as the hit 1980s television series Miami Vice, but I’ve replaced the cops and criminals with artists, art administrators and developers. I highly recommend this trip to all students who want to expand their cultural views of the American arts scene and grab a little sunshine at the same time!”

Tyra Guan
Major in Live & Performing Arts Management, Sophomore

“I loved the whole trip, great people and cool venues. Everything’s new to me, which gave me the chance to explore. The highlights for me were the Beachside riding, the Bayview, and the snow in ‘Night Garden.’ Miami is one of my favorite American cities now, which also makes me want to start to learn Spanish.”