Alexandra

Why did I choose my programme?
I have known that I wanted to study International Business and Politics since high school. I have always been very interested in the global world, international relations, and politics, but I am also curious and intrigued by the business world. This ultimately led me to choose the BSc IBP programme, which truly allows me to go into depth with my core interests and the interplay between business, economics, and politics in general. The BSc IBP programme has also sparked new interests for me in the field of finance. Overall, it has been everything I had hoped for, so I am very happy with my choice. 

What do I like the best?
I really like the mix between the academic subjects and the social life at BSc IBP. This combination is perfect, as I both get to pursue the ideal programme for me where my interests are explored while I’m also getting many new friends. The BSc IBP community is something special, and everyone is very nice and friendly. Our union also organises a lot of different both social and academic events where you can meet one another and really get to know people, which is super fun!


What do I think is difficult?
At first, I found it difficult to strike the right balance between maintaining my social life and working at my student job while attempting to read the entire curriculum. I found the rather extensive curriculum quite overwhelming. Figuring out exactly what and when to prioritise different things was difficult, which it still can be at times. I have learned that prioritising is key! However, this is simply part of studying at university where academic expectations are higher, but you will learn to manage this with time and ultimately find the right balance for you. 

What would I have liked to have known before starting my programme?
Study groups are not assigned at BSc IBP. However, this merely presents the opportunity to form study groups yourself by exploring who you work well with. I have found study groups very rewarding and valuable both in terms of learning from and helping each other academically but especially also when sharing and talking about any concerns or challenges that one might face. It can be overwhelming to start studying at university, so sparring with your fellow students can be reassuring. You are definitely not the only one that might be experiencing difficulties or doubts. 

What do I want to do after finishing my programme?
After finishing my bachelor’s degree, I plan to directly pursue a master’s degree to complete my studies. I am considering continuing with the MSc IBP programme but CBS has a variety of other interesting and specialised graduate programmes, so it is not completely set in stone for me yet. Luckily, there is still plenty of time for me to figure it out and make the right decision. 

If I could give myself a piece of advice, before starting it would be…
My advice would be to be patient! You will experience many new impressions when adapting to life as a student at university, such as the different way of studying at university compared to high school, meeting many new people, and maybe even moving away from home. All of these can seem overwhelming. Yet despite all this, try not to let this discourage you! You will eventually find your place in this new and exciting chapter of your life, and everything will fall into place and work out in the end.