BYU-2025-GivingCougsday

Taking Education Global: How a Study Abroad Program Launched Mason Stoltz’s Career

When Mason Stoltz first heard about the Italy Business Study Abroad Program at BYU, he was a sophomore with a vision. He knew early on that this semester-long academic experience—designed to combine international travel with business coursework—could be a defining part of his college journey. What he didn’t know at the time was that it would also help launch his career.

“I’d been planning for this since I was a sophomore,” says Stoltz. “I worked closely with my academic advisor to make sure the courses offered in the program would count toward my Global Supply Chain major. I knew it wasn’t just a trip—it was an investment in my future.”

In the fall of 2024, Mason joined Professors Taeya Howell and Jim Oldroyd on a four-month journey across Western Europe alongside 39 other students.

One of the most impactful stops came during a professional visit to Stadler International’s operations in Switzerland. Stadler is a global mobility leader. With employees from over 75 nations, Stadler represents exactly the kind of forward-thinking, international organization many business students dream of working for.

During that visit, Stoltz began networking with professionals at Stadler, asking smart questions and demonstrating the knowledge and passion that had shaped his academic journey. Months later, when he began his post-graduation job search, he stayed in contact with those he’d met abroad. Those efforts paid off—Stadler executives remembered Mason and recommended him for a role at their Salt Lake City location. He received and accepted an offer in early 2025.

“Electing to go on a study abroad program not only enhanced my education,” Stoltz says, “it landed me an excellent job.”

Now working in a field he loves for a company he believes in, Mason credits the decision to take his academic efforts global was a critical turning point.

“If you really want to understand the concepts you’re learning in school, practical application is key,” he explains. “A study abroad program allows you to ask questions of professionals in a variety of fields and learn how academic principles are applied in the real world.”

And the benefits go well beyond academics.

“The friendships and professional contacts I developed as a study abroad student are some of the most valuable aspects of my education at BYU,” he says. “Gaining global experience changes who you are and elevates the contributions you can make in your career.”

For companies like Stadler, those global perspectives are exactly what they seek in future employees.

So, is studying abroad worth it?

For Mason Stoltz, the answer is clear.

“It’s not just about the places you go,” he says. “It’s about the person you become—and the doors that open when you bring your education into the global arena.”