I wanted to study in an international environment. The fact that I could combine languages – my passion – and other interesting business topics caught me right away. My overall experience at SDI was really positive. I appreciated the practice-based use cases, which helped me understand the working world. My career evolved very well, and I’m happy with my choices. Always follow your dreams, and don't let anyone tell you that you can't make it!
Full Interview
Maria-Pias Success Story
- Why did you choose to study at International University SDI München?
I wanted to study in an international environment. The fact that I could combine languages (my passion) and other interesting business topics caught me right away. - What was your overall SDI experience like and what did you learn?
My overall experience at SDI was really positive. I appreciated the fact that we always had really practice-based use cases while studying. It helped me to get a better understanding of the working world. - What was your favourite subject and why?
I really appreciated my classes with Prof. Henzler. I was very interested in his approaches of Design Thinking and his definition of personas. These approaches also supported me in my current job. - Were you involved in any extracurricular activities (student council [Fachschaft], organizations, sports, etc.)? If so, which ones?
I was part of the student council and really enjoyed that time. We were a small group, but we always did our best to support our study colleagues.
- How has your career evolved since graduation?
Actually, very well. My main job is in IT development as a Product Manager. After my studies, I started working in the fashion industry, but then I decided to switch to Supply Chain Management as it was more interesting, in my opinion. I had to catch up with some IT topics, but in the end, I did it, and I am really happy about my choice. Next to my position as a Product Manager, I also teach French and Italian at the Volkshochschule (public school) in my city. - What skills or knowledge from your education have been most valuable in your career?
Definitely the languages and all the knowledge about economy-related topics such as supply chain management, design thinking, and project management. - Have you encountered any challenges or obstacles in your career? If so, how did you overcome them?
As I didn't have any IT-related topics in my studies, I had to do a lot of extra work and learning. Most of my knowledge about IT comes from extra courses I joined in my spare time and from my working student jobs, which helped me to learn “hands-on”.
- What piece of advice would you give to current students or recent graduates looking to start their careers?
Always follow your dreams, and don't let anyone tell you that you can't make it.
- How has your experience at International University SDI München shaped who you are today?
Definitely the interaction with my professors and the practical use cases and also cooperations with other companies. - What do you hope to accomplish in the next 5–10 years in your career or personal life?
I would like to become a team lead in my department. - How do you stay connected with the SDI München community or fellow alumni?
I'm only in contact with some of them.
- What do you enjoy doing outside of work (hobbies, volunteer work, personal interests)?
Studying new languages (currently Chinese and Japanese), reading and cooking. - Are there any causes or organizations you're passionate about that you would like to share?
No.
- Share something about yourself that most people wouldn’t know.
I was able to cook at the age of eight.
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Then simply fill out the Alumni Questionnaire to tell us about your milestones, challenges and successes! We greatly appreciate the opportunity to inspire future students and highlight their potential by providing insights into your varied careers.
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