About

The Global Business Association (GBA) is a student-led organization under the MBA Association at the Michael G. Foster School of Business. As the only MBA club focused exclusively on global business, GBA enhances Foster MBA students’ understanding of cross-border and cross-cultural issues that define today’s business landscape. 

Through engaging cultural celebrations, interactive events, and guest speaker sessions, GBA provides students the opportunity to connect with international business leaders and expand their networks, both locally in Seattle and around the world. 

Our vision is to build a globally connected and culturally aware Foster community. Our mission is to empower students by deepening their knowledge of global business, supporting international students navigating the U.S. job market, and celebrating the cultural diversity that enriches our MBA program. 

We are committed to creating inclusive, globally minded experiences that broaden perspectives, support international engagement, and prepare Foster students to lead in an interconnected world.

 

Leadership

Nicolas Picon 

Co-President 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

Nicolas is originally from Bogotá, Colombia. Prior to pursuing his MBA, he worked as an operations and product manager at a biotech startup in New York, where he discovered his passion for entrepreneurship and venture capital. Nicolas believes that sharing traditions, food, and global perspectives helps create a stronger, more inclusive community. At Foster, he enjoys being part of events that highlight the diverse backgrounds of his classmates and encourage cross-cultural learning. In his free time, Nicolas loves playing soccer, traveling, and exploring new cuisines. 

AARUSHI SINGLA 

Co-president

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

Aarushi Singla is an MBA candidate at the Foster School of Business and the President of the Global Business Association. With a background in digital transformation and marketing technology, she has worked across startups and global firms to scale digital operations. Passionate about global collaboration and cross-cultural leadership, Aarushi is now pivoting into product management, with a strong interest in health-tech. Outside of business, she loves curating travel experiences and bringing people together through shared cultural moments.

JIPSA RAO 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

ELAINE VU-PHAN 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

PRATYUSH KUMAR 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

UJWALA KUMAR 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Evening Class of 2027 

Email | LinkedIn 

JARED ESPINOSA 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

SHUBHAM SONU 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

FEROZ RIZVI 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

DEBJYOTI SAMANTA 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

ABHINAV BHARGAVA 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

SHANKAR M B 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

VINEETHA RAMESH 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

JACQUELINE MEZA 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

KASHISH GARG 

Board Member Global Business Association 

Full-time Class of 2026 

Email | LinkedIn 

Events

We collaborate with key partners across the university to bring you globally enriching experiences throughout the year. 

Our partners include: 

  • Career Management Office 

  • Global Business Center at the Foster School of Business 

Upcoming & Recurring Events: 

  • Cultural Celebrations - Join us for vibrant events like Friendsgiving, Diwali, Lunar New Year, and the Latin American Carnival to experience traditions from around the world. 

  • Study Abroad Insights - Gain valuable first-hand perspectives from students who have participated in global study tours, exchange programs, or international internships. 

  • Global Leadership Panel - Hear from U.S.-based industry experts as they share insights from leading international projects and working with global teams. 

  • International Language Evenings - Explore the basics of languages like Spanish and French in fun, interactive sessions designed for beginners.

Contact

Contact Us