Cory T. Hrncirik, a 2002 graduate in international studies with minors in business management and European studies, said, “My BYU education, especially the knowledge and experience gained through the Kennedy Center, gave me a broad base on which to begin building my career. The decision to pursue international studies provided me with more than memorized formulas and case studies and instilled in me a desire to understand this world—to “become acquainted with all good books, and with languages, tongues, and people;”1 and to “obtain a knowledge of history and of countries and of kingdoms, of laws of God and man.”2
The most useful skills for Hrncirik’s career were not those gleaned from textbooks or lectures. “The assets I left BYU with include the ability to learn new things, to be sensitive to different cultures, and to analyze the economic and political situation of different countries,” he said. “Also the ability to use computer software (especially Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) is invaluable in performing my regular work tasks and responsibilities, as is the capability to work in teams and to make presentations to a group.”
Several courses are recalled as being particularly beneficial. “One of the first classes in my major, which started me on the right foot and inspired me, was a general international business class offered through the Marriott School,” Hrncirik said. “A class in European geography opened my eyes to world cultures, economies, political structures, and peoples; and a class in economic geography taught me to analyze various countries according to a wide range of indicators and to present my findings to others.”
And finally, he said, “The Kennedy Center lecture series provided real world examples of global issues, challenges, and opportunities.”
What advice would he offer students today? “Strive to gain a broad education, but do so with careful selectivity, not whimsically or without focus. Take some classes outside of your selected major that are of particular interest and will round out your education. Complete an internship or study abroad as part of your education. Pursue knowledge that goes beyond textbooks,” he offered.
NOTES
- Doctrine and Covenants 90:15
- Doctrine and Covenants 93:53
Hrncirik is married to the former Rachelle Harmon. They have two children: Juliana (2) and Joseph (6 mos.). Hrncirik has been living with his family in Prague, Czech Republic, since March 2002, where he is employed as the Head of Research for Central and Eastern Europe at CB Richard Ellis, an international property consultancy firm.