Carolin Faudt (20), Germany
17 Mar 2011
B.BA in International Business and Management Studies, HZ University of Applied Sciences
After my graduation from secondary school in Germany last year, I decided not just to study Economics like everyone else in Germany, but to study the international aspects of it and in an international environment. I started looking for schools on the internet that offer Economics courses in English. The HZ University of Applied Sciences in Vlissingen was my first choice because of its relatively small size and, of course, the location on the coast.
During the first year, the courses covered the different fields of Economics and Business/Management. Both Marketing and Sales and Financial Management were part of the programme.
I enjoyed the mix of courses and small-sized classes. The small classes made it easy to build up relationships with both the other students and the teachers. The lectures involved a lot of group work and case studies.
Practical way of teaching
In the second year we have even more practical modules because we have set up our own companies (with the help of professionals and teachers) in groups of approximately ten students. I think that theoretical classes could never make up for such an experience.
Also part of the programme is the possibility to spend a semester abroad and the work placement in the third year. The school has partner institutions all over the world and assists in going abroad for a semester or a work placement. This kind of assistance is just one example of all the help the school offers during the studies. In general, I have experienced a great openness and helpful people throughout my stay here in the Netherlands.
International environment
Vlissingen is a student town as well as a tourist place. I have met people from so many different places while studying and living in Vlissingen. The IBMS classes consist of many nationalities, which makes it so much more interesting.
After completing my studies, I would like to work in an international environment and I think that the HZ and the IBMS programme with their international approach prepare students well for today’s business world.
