New year, new courses and new information. I am looking forward to learn more about cultures, since that is the main reason I have chosen the major BLCC.The first weeks were quite overwhelming, but I managed to keep my head calm. Now that I am studying what I really want to study, I feel calm, ambitious and enthusiastic.
In the first few weeks, important cultural topics were reviewed by Mrs. Carita. Firstly, the concept of of culture also knowns as the cultural tree. At the start of International Business, the courses CCA and CCM discussed this topic as well. However, a couple of years later and gained more knowledge I think I finally understand the importance of this model.
Secondly, Hofstede's six cultural dimensions. I am very happy we reviewed this topic again in class, so I am now able to understand the theory better. I always thought that Hofstede's theory was simple theory, that would never be applicable in real life. However, I have experienced this several times since I finally get to know the essence of the model. The six dimensions: power distance, individualism vs collectivism, masculinity vs femininity, uncertainty avoidance, long vs short term orientation and indulgent vs restraint are the dimensions that are key to understand cultures in general.
Lastly, the guest lectures have been amazing. I always knew there are cultural differences, even between The Netherlands and Belgium. However, to personally hear it from someone that has lived in either Mexico and The Netherlands experienced the differences herself. Mrs. Alicia Roman Alonso used Hofstede's six cultural dimensions to explain the differences in culture between Mexico and the Netherlands. Mexico scored overall better on power distance, collectivism and masculinity, while the Netherlands contained the opposite dimensions. An example that is commonly used is that people in the Netherlands are very direct and do not hesitate to disagree with someone that has a higher position than them. This is something that will definitely not occur in Mexico, because the power distance and hierarchy are very important.
To conclude, the first four weeks have been useful for my personal and business life. I have learned the differences between Mexico and my own country and the two essential models were reviewed. To everybody who is willing to choose this major, I definitely recommend it!
