Beatrice Trinca from Italy

Study Program: Corporate Communication and Management (M.Sc.)

• Where did you grow up and what did you do before coming to Pforzheim?
  I grew up in Rome, Italy, but also in Munich, Germany (my high school years). Before coming to Pforzheim I studied “Business Administration and Economics” at Tor Vergata University in Rome.
   
• Why did you choose Business School Pforzheim for your studies?
  I really liked the Business School's mindset of more practical projects inside the course, e.g. the company project in the first semester, and also outside like Refill. It helped me utilise the theory I learnt during my Bachelor into practice and gain confidence in my knowledge and ideas.
   
• What do you like best about your study program?
  As mentioned above, the focus on mixing theory and practice but also the internationality of the course. It gives you a lot of insights and new ideas when confronted with people who had different experiences and cultures.
   
• Please name three words that best describe your experience at Business School Pforzheim
  Growth, opportunities and friendships.
   
• What do you do in your free time in Pforzheim and around?
  I mostly walk near the river and go to cafés with my colleagues.
   
• Do you have tips for prospective international students?
  Don't be scared of making mistakes or saying your opinions! People want to listen what you have to add!
   
• Do you already know what you want to do after graduation?
  Hopefully, working in the area of marketing.

Abdessamad Bouali from Italy/Morocco.

Study Program: Digital Business Management (M.Sc.)

• Where did you grow up and what did you do before coming to Pforzheim?
  I grew up in Italy, but I have lived, studied, and worked in four different countries: Morocco, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy.
   
• Why did you choose Business School Pforzheim for your studies?
  Mainly for the Master’s program. I was looking for a study path that connects my background in economics with my passion for innovation, digitalization, and AI. When I discovered the program and saw the campus, I immediately fell in love with it.
   
• What do you like best about your study program?
  The interdisciplinarity and the multicultural environment. You can explore different topics within a truly cosmopolitan setting.
   
• Please name three words that best describe your experience at Business School Pforzheim.
  Multicultural, open-minded, innovative.
   
• What do you do in your free time in Pforzheim and around?
  In Pforzheim I found my favorite meditation spot: the Wildpark. I used to go there three to four times a week. During exam periods, I also loved studying in the library with its amazing view.
   
• Do you have tips for prospective international students?
  Network and connect with people. Don’t be shy! reach out, talk, and build relationships.
   
• Do you already know what you want to do after graduation?
  I would love to work in sales. I’m currently doing an internship at a SaaS company, where I’m learning both about the product (I enjoy diving into the technical details) and about understanding customers’ real needs.
   
• Additional information
  You will meet people who are different from you!! Don’t let that hold you back. If you approach it with an open mind, you will thrive and truly enjoy your time in Pforzheim.

Ann Tho Tran from Vietnam

Study program: Digital Business Management (M.Sc.)

• Where did you grow up and what did you do before coming to Pforzheim?
  I come from Vietnam. I graduated with a degree in E-commerce at Vietnam National University. Before persuing this program, I had worked as a Database Developer at Bosch Vietnam for over two years. 
   
• Why did you choose Business School Pforzheim for your studies?
  When I applied, I was particularly attracted by the program’s focus on digital transformation and its practical learning approach. Also, I was looking for a university in Baden-Württemberg, and Pforzheim stood out because of its convenient location and strong reputation.
   
• What do you like best about your study program?
  Over the past two semesters, I’ve been impressed by the international environment, studying alongside classmates from around the world has given me the chance to learn from different cultures and perspectives. I especially value how the program integrates AI and new technologies into digital business and emphasizes hands-on learning. We have had excellent opportunities to work in diverse teams, take part in real-life projects with companies, and visit partner organizations. The outstanding support from our program director and faculty has been one of the best parts of my studies, they are always open to our ideas, encourage us to grow.
   
• Please name three words that best describe your experience at Business School Pforzheim.
  International - Practical – Supportive
   
• What do you do in your free time in Pforzheim and around?
  In my free time, I enjoy being close to nature, walking along the river, visiting the Wildpark near the university, and exploring the city. I also love gathering and cooking with friends, which makes me feel at home and share my culture with others.
   
• Do you have tips for prospective international students?
  Be open-minded and engage with people from different cultures. Join student activities, take part in projects, and don’t hesitate to ask for support, professors, lecturers are always willing to help.
   
• Do you already know what you want to do after graduation?
  After graduation, I would like to stay in Germany and continue my career in the IT industry, working with data in digital business environments.

Desiree Chelsie Nguemo Ngamene from Cameroon

Study program: International Business (B.Sc.)

I chose the international business program of Pforzheim University because it allows me not only to gain knowledge in business but also to develop intercultural skills and have international perspectives.

Although the educational system here is completely different from that in my home country, this system and its program nevertheless offers a great range of opportunities. The program is structured such that students can have something doing aside from school. I for one, have a student job, but one does not prevent the other.

I was particularly impressed by the cosmopolitan nature of Pforzheim University and its strong emphasis on diversity. International students are warmly welcomed and quickly make friends. I felt welcomed and well-supported from the moment I arrived.

It is an enriching experience for me to learn in an international environment, to form friendships with people from all over the world, and to broaden my knowledge, which will open many doors for my professional future.

Yaren Virlan from Turkey

Study program: Digital Business Management (M.Sc.)

• Where did you grow up and what did you do before coming to Pforzheim?
  I grew up in Ankara, Turkey, and completed my Bachelor in Business Administration at Bilkent University. As part of my studies, I spent an Erasmus exchange semester at Pforzheim University, which became an important milestone in my academic journey. Before pursuing my master’s degree, I gained valuable professional experience through internships and entrepreneurial projects.
   
• Why did you choose Business School Pforzheim for your studies?
  My Erasmus semester at Pforzheim was a turning point, as I greatly valued both the high academic quality and the welcoming international atmosphere. When I began searching for a master’s program, I chose to return to Pforzheim because I was confident it would provide excellent opportunities for professional development as well as a supportive and inspiring community.
   
• What do you like best about your study program?
  What I value most about my study program is its interdisciplinary approach, which combines digital innovation with business management and equips us with the skills to understand both technology and its strategic impact. Equally important is the international environment, which fosters an inspiring atmosphere where every discussion is enriched by diverse perspectives. My advice to prospective students would be to step outside their comfort zone; participate in events, join trips, and engage in conversations with people from different cultures, because building connections here is just as valuable as the knowledge gained in class.
   
• Please name three words that best describe your experience at Business School Pforzheim.
  Innovative – International – Inspiring.
   
• What do you do in your free time in Pforzheim and around?
  In my free time, I enjoy exploring the Goldstadt, spending time in nature, and visiting nearby cities. I also like discovering cozy cafés, walking along the river, and browsing through flea markets. Spending time with animals in the Black Forest and at the Wildpark is another activity I truly enjoy. Besides that, I like playing the piano, solving puzzles, and working on creative projects such as handmade knitting.
   
• Do you have tips for prospective international students?
  My advice for prospective international students is to stay open to new experiences and cultures, as studying here is not only about academics but also about personal growth. Getting involved in student activities and building connections with others will make the experience even more enriching and rewarding.
   
• Do you already know what you want to do after graduation?
  After graduation, I aim to build a career in digital transformation and project management, helping companies integrate innovative technologies into their business strategies.
   
• Additional information
  Having experienced both an Erasmus exchange and now a full-time master’s program at Pforzheim, I can confidently say that the university provides a supportive and motivating environment for international students. It is a place where you can challenge yourself academically while also building lasting personal connections.

Abdourahmane Diallo from Senegal

Study Program: International Business (B. Sc.)

• Where did you grow up and what did you do before coming to Pforzheim? 
  I’m originally from Dakar, Senegal, where I grew up and completed my high school diploma. Before moving to Pforzheim, I was already studying Business Administration back home. 
   
• Why did you choose Business School Pforzheim for your studies? 
  I chose Business School Pforzheim because it offers the chance to study in English and partly in French, which is my home language. I was also drawn by its good reputation and strong ranking. The location is another plus, close to big cities like Stuttgart but not too crowded, which makes it a nice place to study. Since I’m passionate about business and wanted to study abroad in an international environment, coming to Pforzheim was the perfect move. 
   
• What do you like best about your study program? 
  What I like most is the combination of an international atmosphere and high-quality teaching. My classmates on average speak at least three languages, which shows the diversity within a single class and really makes a difference. The program gives me the chance to study with people from all over the world while also gaining strong academic and practical knowledge through group projects and case studies, which make me truly engaged in the learning process. 
   
• Please name three words that best describe your experience at Business School Pforzheim. 
  International – Discovery – Friendly 
   
• What do you do in your free time in Pforzheim and around? 
  In my free time, I often hang out with friends from the university in Pforzheim or Stuttgart to have drinks, play games, or go on day trips to nearby cities. On weekends, I also like to travel, I’ve visited Munich (I’ve been to the Bayern Munich stadium), Frankfurt, Cologne, and Dortmund. I even went to Switzerland and France several times, as they are very close to Pforzheim. 
   
• Do you have tips for prospective international students? 
  My tip is to always check the relevant information carefully and stay organized. I recommend using a digital agenda to keep track of important events and dates so you’re always on time and don’t miss any opportunities. It’s also important to learn some basic German, be open to new cultures, and especially be open to making friends, it will make your time at the university much more interesting and enjoyable. 
   
• Do you already know what you want to do after graduation? 
  Yes, I want to do a work-study master’s program in finance. This way, I can gain practical experience in the working world while completing my master’s degree.

Sunchai Kongtangjitt from Thailand

Study Program: Corporate Communication Management (M.Sc.)

• Where did you grow up and what did you do before coming to Pforzheim?
  I grew up in Bangkok, Thailand. Before coming to Pforzheim, I worked as a Business Operations Manager at a joint venture company, supporting the President/CTO with projects, events, and internal communication. Before that, I was a flight attendant, an experience that not only made me people-centric but also gave me the chance to travel and embrace new cultures.
   
• Why did you choose Business School Pforzheim for your studies?
  I chose Pforzheim Business School simply because it felt like the best fit for me. During the interview, I really felt a connection and good chemistry with the school. Compared to other universities I applied to, Business School Pforzheim felt the most structured and trustworthy. And of course, being a public university was a big plus because it saved me from huge tuition fees.
   
• What do you like best about your study program?
  What I like best about my study program is how practice-oriented it is and that there are fewer written exams. Honestly, it was very different from the way I used to study, and it was tough at first, but I’ve grown a lot. Learning theory while applying it in workshops, exploring new skills, and working on real projects has really shaped a NEW me. I even saw the results in my work as a working student at a company.
   
• Please name three words that best describe your experience at Business School Pforzheim.
  Transformative, Hands-on, Exploration.
   
• What do you do in your free time in Pforzheim and around?
  On weekends, I usually go to the gym, visit cafés, work on side-job, do assignments, and cook (new skills here in Germany). During holidays, I love exploring new cities in Germany, traveling to nearby European countries, and spending time in nature, which has become a new hobby of mine.
   
• Do you have tips for prospective international students?
  First of all, don’t overthink about choosing a fancy city. Just apply and secure your spot. The experience itself will teach you so much, no matter where you are.
   
• Do you already know what you want to do after graduation?
  Yes, I’m already planning my next move, but I’m keeping it under wraps for now.
   
• Additional information
  The university is really working on making the environment more international, so it’s easy to feel at home here. Pforzheim’s location is great too, with lots of big companies nearby. Learning some German is super helpful for daily life and work, and everyone here is really friendly. Life balance is great despite the many assignments. You’ve got nature just around the corner, Stuttgart’s shopping and city life only a 30-minute train ride away, and many other exciting places are just a quick train ride from here.

Dogan Koc from Turkey

Study program: Digital Business Management (M.Sc.)

• Where did you grow up and what did you do before coming to Pforzheim?
  I grew up in Turkey and studied Business Administration at Bilkent University in Ankara, where I graduated among the top of my class. I also had the chance to spend a semester in Poland at SGH Warsaw School of Economics. Before moving to Germany, I gained hands-on experience in finance, accounting, and investment through several internships and working student roles.

• Why did you choose Business School Pforzheim for your studies?
  For me, Pforzheim stood out as a place where business meets technology in a very practical way. The program’s strong link to industry, its international outlook, and the chance to apply knowledge directly to real projects were the main reasons I chose it.
   
• What do you like best about your study program?
  What I enjoy most is the balance between theory and practice. We don’t just learn about digital transformation, we actually work on projects that mirror real business challenges. The diversity of my classmates also makes every group discussion a chance to see problems from completely new angles.
   
• Please name three words that best describe your experience at Business School Pforzheim.
  Challenging – International – Rewarding.
   
• What do you do in your free time in Pforzheim and around?
  In my free time, I enjoy exploring the Black Forest and the cultural side of Pforzheim. I also like reading business magazines, collecting literature journals, and sometimes writing poetry, it helps me keep a creative balance next to my studies.
   
• Do you have tips for prospective international students?
  Be curious and proactive from day one. Pforzheim is a place where you can really connect with professors and students if you take the initiative. And don’t forget to explore the region, the nature and culture here make the study experience much richer.
   
• Do you already know what you want to do after graduation?
  Yes, after graduation I see myself working in digital transformation and business analytics in an international company. My long-term goal is to combine strategy, technology, and innovation to help businesses adapt to the digital age.
   
• Additional information
  I have always been interested in the intersection of people, business, and technology. Through my studies and work experiences, I aim to contribute to creating sustainable, data-driven solutions that make a positive impact on organizations and society.

Zsofia Armas from Hungary

Study program: Corporate Communication Management (M.Sc.)

• Where did you grow up and what did you do before coming to Pforzheim?
  I was born in Hungary and lived there until the second grade. After that, my parents moved with the family to Germany, where I grew up in the Black Forest town of Bad Dürrheim. That’s why I like to describe myself as a “potato chip” – very German, but still with a touch of paprika flavor from my Hungarian roots.
   
• Why did you choose Business School Pforzheim for your studies?
  Before starting my master’s degree, I completed a pre-master program at a company where I learned to appreciate the hands-on approach to communication. At the time, a working student recommended Pforzheim University because of its strong practical orientation, which convinced me to apply.
   
• What do you like best about your study program?
  One major advantage of the MCCM program is that it is taught in English. I highly value this, as it fosters international collaboration, which I consider essential.
   
• Please name three words that best describe your experience at Business School Pforzheim.
  Energetic / Collaborative / Coffee-flavored.
   
• What do you do in your free time in Pforzheim and around?
  I actually commute from Karlsruhe, so most of my free-time activities are based there. Still, biking is my favorite pastime, whether around Karlsruhe or Pforzheim.
   
• Do you have tips for prospective international students?
  Definitely apply to this business school! Located in the heart of Baden-Württemberg, it offers great opportunities for both personal growth and professional development.
   
• Do you already know what you want to do after graduation?
  My goal is to start a career right after graduation—hopefully, it will work out for all of us graduates! I see myself working in marketing, communication, management, or a combination of these fields.
   
• Additional information
  Stay true to yourself - but also be open to change and growth.