“Diversity Broadens our Horizons” – Students Share Experience from the Hamburg MBA

Lina R., a former marketing manager at the Cartagena de Indias Tourism Board in Colombia, has over ten years’ experience in the tourism and finance sectors and is convinced of the benefits of learning in an international study group:

“I particularly enjoy learning alongside international fellow students from different cultures and professional backgrounds. These diverse backgrounds bring real added value to the group and reflect the reality of today’s global workplace. This diversity broadens our perspectives and makes the learning experience more dynamic and relevant.”

Fellow student Mursal R. comes from a very different background. She worked for many years in the humanitarian sector, in development aid. She supported NGOs in Afghanistan with data analysis and evaluation, as well as with day-to-day operations and youth work. It was here that her keen interest in empowerment and communication developed:

“With my MBA, I am now building on this background to further develop my management and leadership skills. It is a very enriching experience. The MBA has made me think differently and more strategically. I have learnt a great deal about leadership, finance and decision-making, and I really appreciate how the programme encourages me to step outside my comfort zone whilst providing a supportive environment.”

Respect, openness and genuine curiosity

The Academic Director, Prof. Dr Katja Starken, is delighted with the successful launch of the programme and speaks with great enthusiasm about the students: 

“The MBA cohort has integrated into life at the HSBA remarkably quickly. The group brings together a wide range of professional and cultural backgrounds, which significantly enrich the exchange of ideas and perspectives within the programme. Particularly noteworthy is how well the collaboration between such diverse participants works – characterised by openness, mutual respect and genuine curiosity. The students not only actively engage in the lectures but have also built strong bonds with one another. Overall, it is impressive to see the commitment and motivation with which the group approaches both their studies and the creation of a supportive and collaborative learning environment. It is a great pleasure to accompany them on their MBA journey.”

The HSBA Hamburg MBA programme provides young professionals and experienced graduates from Germany and abroad with in-depth business management expertise and key leadership skills over the course of one year (full-time) or two years (part-time), equipping them to take the next steps in their careers on the national and international stage.