A&M International Students Learn Real World Problems through Business Class

Texas A&M International University's graduate business students are learning about legal issues in international trade this summer through a special class designed to acquaint them with real-world problems that arise when conducting multinational transactions.

The class, "Special Issues in International Trade" is being offered by Dr. James Giermanski, regents professor of management, and features legal experts who work with issues regarding international trade litigations.

Students were recently visited by State Rep. Henry Cuellar, who lectured on an international maritime question of insurable interest, title, damage and liability. Attorney Roberto Balli discussed criminal law issues on the U.S. Custom practice of drilling cargo equipment and potential suits by shippers and carriers that could result. Local attorney Joseph Michael Dickerson will introduce the students to a legal case involving the role and legal responsibility of freight forwarders under the new and old federal laws from July 26 thorugh July 28 at Pellegrino Hall, room 113 from 8 a.m. - 9 a.m.

"These sessions are also open to business practicioners who want to further familiarize themselves with these issues," Giermanski said.

As trade becomes more global every day, it is crucial for business students to be equipped with essential knowledge about potential litigation with an international scope, Giermanski said.

"We have invited these attorneys to come and speak about actual cases so that students can obtain first-hand knowledge on what goes on in determining who has standing to sue, what the damages are, and who is liabile in cases involving an international shipment. Since these are students who plan to conduct business in international trade and logistics, it is, therefore, important for them to understand international cargo liability issues," Giermanski said.

For further information, please contact Dr. Giermanski at 326-2520. University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu