1. Why did you choose IBEI Master’s?

I chose the MIR at IBEI for two reasons: to explore my profound interest into international politics, allowing me to understand “how the world works”, and to substantiate my intended career pivot towards working in EU development cooperation.

2. What is your experience at IBEI? 

I greatly appreciate the time I spent studying at IBEI, especially the high level of flexibility to design the MIR program exactly according to your individual interest and thus optimally prepare for your future career path. Additionally, I was very happy to study alongside open-minded and intelligent fellow students, some of which have become very dear friends of mine.

3. Describe your career path since graduating from the IBEI

Having worked as a consultant (part-time) in European Affairs in parallel to my studies at IBEI, I joined the European Commission’s trainee program “Blue Book” as of March 2022. Since August, I’m working at the Commission’s DG for Development Cooperation, managing a program by which we intend to mobilise large sums of private sector investments to be channelled towards financing the Sustainable Development Goals.

4. How did the master programme prepare you for the work you're doing now?

By complementing my background in business and finance with a deeper understanding of public policy in the context of international relations, I feel optimally prepared for my future career. Following my current job at the European Commission I can very well see myself joining one of the EU’s delegations in either Latin America or Sub-Saharan Africa.

5. Is this more or less what you pictured yourself doing after the master programme?

I am lucky to say that I have arrived exactly where I intended to go before enrolling at IBEI.

6. What advice would you give to current students who want to follow this career path? / Some advice to future IBEI students?

With a degree from IBEI, you will be equipped with everything you need to pursue the career that you envision. You might have to a little patient before landing your dream job but with a bit of insistence you will surely get there!

7. What do you miss most about IBEI? 

I miss being able to dedicate more time to exploring my interests in international politics and to learn about different countries and cultures, both in class and from fellow students outside of it.