Peter, graduate of the International Business Communication (BA) programmeThe combination of business, languages and lecturers with practical experience was unique – and the fact that I also developed such a keen interest in intercultural topics made it all the better. My time studying at SDI was fantastic. The economic and financial crisis provided real-life examples on a daily basis, which were used to explain the theory – in both the economic and cultural spheres. The semester abroad in Sydney was another highlight and an opportunity to further develop my skills and prepare myself for my future career. As a project manager both at home and abroad, and within highly international project structures, I am constantly able to apply the knowledge I gained back then.
Full Interview
Peter's Success Story
- Why did you choose to study at International University SDI München?
The combination of economic topics, languages, and intercultural understanding was unique in this form. - What was your overall SDI experience like and what did you learn?
I had a wonderful time at SDI. Since almost all of my instructors were actively involved in the private sector (whether as freelancers, consultants, entrepreneurs, founders, etc.) in addition to their teaching duties, they were able to explain the course material very clearly using current, practical, and therefore easier-to-understand examples. - What was your favourite subject and why?
Business Administration and Economics. I began my studies in 2008, at a time when countries, companies and individuals around the world were facing an existential threat from the economic and financial crisis. It was fascinating to witness in real time how theoretical models, years of established economic ‘best practices’ and approaches suddenly had to adapt to a crisis of a new kind. - Were you involved in any extracurricular activities (student council [Fachschaft], organizations, sports, etc.)? If so, which ones?
I was the student representative for the degree programme and the university, as well as the deputy student representative for the entire faculty.
- How has your career evolved since graduation?
After completing my studies, I began working for Süddeutscher Verlag to optimise the delivery processes for newspaper distribution in part of Munich (coordinating the printing of the newspaper, delivery to distribution points, mobile support for delivery staff, right through to arrival at the customer’s door); I was later appointed managing director of two subsidiaries of the Süddeutsche Zeitung and was responsible for 125 employees from 39 countries. Due to the decline in print media and the resulting staff cuts, I had to reorient myself and, in 2016, made a career change into IT consultancy, specialising in logistics solutions. I am now responsible for Europe-wide implementation projects in this field. - What skills or knowledge from your education have been most valuable in your career?
As already mentioned, a basic understanding of economic issues is essential for being able to assess clients’ challenges, constraints and needs, and subsequently provide them with the best possible advice. Being fluent in several languages is always a major advantage, regardless of the industry in which one works. Due to the many projects I undertake both at home and abroad, the vast majority of which are carried out with an international project team, I am able to apply my knowledge of intercultural matters on a very regular basis. - Have you encountered any challenges or obstacles in your career? If so, how did you overcome them?
There has never been, there is not now, and there never will be a career without challenges, hurdles, problems, and so on. In my opinion, careers are shaped precisely by these challenges and the way one deals with them. As an athlete, I had qualified for the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney – but was ruled unfit to compete six weeks before the start due to an injury. As I was sponsored by the German Armed Forces as an athlete at the time, I completely reoriented myself, stayed for 12 years, completed an apprenticeship and training as a business administrator during my service, and caught up on my A-levels at evening school. Due to the reduction in troop numbers at the time, I did not become a professional soldier – so I had to start all over again. This was followed by my studies at the SDI, etc. What I’m trying to say is that situations can and probably will arise time and again where you simply have to fight your way through.
- What piece of advice would you give to current students or recent graduates looking to start their careers?
Experience has shown that working as a student trainee can offer a great many advantages when it comes to launching your career – simply because you already have one foot in the door. Even 25–30 years ago, it was said that employees needed to be flexible – given the ever-accelerating pace of technological development and, above all, the growing influence of AI, I can only advise you to remain open to change. ‘Lifelong learning’ will have an even greater impact on the careers of future generations than it has in the past.
- How has your experience at International University SDI München shaped who you are today?
As I didn’t start studying until my early 30s – as a father of two, after 12 years in the German Armed Forces and three overseas deployments in the Balkans – my personality was already very well established. - What do you hope to accomplish in the next 5–10 years in your career or personal life?
My next career move is to take charge of a team, where my focus will no longer be on advising companies, but on developing the next generation of consultants. Personally, I try to live and enjoy every day as if it were my last. Life is too short to get annoyed... - How do you stay connected with the SDI München community or fellow alumni?
Via LinkedIn.
- What do you enjoy doing outside of work (hobbies, volunteer work, personal interests)?
I try to attend about 5–7 festivals a year. You meet old and new friends, stay young at heart and just have a great time. - 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 used to be an MC in a hardcore techno act that performed in seven different European countries. These days, I only perform very rarely, and when I do, it’s as a solo act.
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