Greetings from the beautiful city of Mannheim

I am excited to share my international study visit experience in Mannheim, as part of my International Business in Context module. As an MBA student with aspirations of joining the dynamic business world, I am inspired by Mannheim’s innovative spirit and its legacy as the “city of inventions.

Initially, I was apprehensive about how much I could learn about a country’s business landscape and culture in just one week, however my experience in Germany far exceeded my expectations. The well-organized itinerary, combined with the constant interaction with professionals, provided a concentrated learning experience that felt equivalent to a three-month course. It significantly shaped my understanding of German business and culture, offering insights that have a lasting effect long after the trip itself.

Professor Alexander’s Pfisterer lectures were a highlight of my learning experience. His unique teaching style, which emphasized visuals and encouraged critical thinking, made complex concepts about Germany’s culture, economy, and politics accessible and engaging. By using pictures from magazines and books instead of traditional text-heavy slides, he stimulated deeper thought and understanding. This unconventional approach not only made the lectures enjoyable but also fostered a more profound comprehension of the subject matter. 

Building upon this foundation, the company visits to Fuchs, Hager, and SAP, along with the online meeting with the European Central Bank, provided invaluable insights into the practical application of theoretical concepts. These interactions showcased how businesses operate in real-world scenarios, navigate decision-making processes, and adapt to cultural nuances. The opportunity to witness firsthand the impact of cultural differences on business practices enriched my understanding of international business dynamics.

The international study visit to Germany significantly enriched my MBA experience and personal growth, aligning perfectly with my aspiration to work in international business, particularly in Germany. It provided firsthand exposure to German business practices and cultural nuances, enhancing my understanding of cross-cultural communication and collaboration. Many of the theoretical concepts I learned during the IBC course came to life during this visit. Interacting with professionals from diverse backgrounds broadened my perspective on global business and deepened my appreciation for cultural diversity.

The trip solidified my career aspirations, confirming my interest in pursuing opportunities in Germany. I plan to leverage the knowledge and experiences gained to navigate the complexities of the German market, build meaningful professional relationships through the connections I made and ultimately contribute to the global business landscape. To stay abreast of German business trends, I have subscribed to publications like Handelsblatt and Wirtschaftswoche and seek opportunities to connect with German professionals through organizations like the German-British Chamber of Commerce.

The impact of my Mannheim adventure is perhaps best summed up by a simple phrase I learned during my time in Germany: “Jedem Anfang wohnt ein Zauber inne” meaning “Every beginning has a magic in it”. Indeed, while I’ve had international experiences before, my week in Mannheim marked a truly magical new beginning, the first chapter in my career journey in Germany.

I would like to call this experience in the MBA programme the cherry on top!