That is the mentality surrounding the first week of studies after HS Pforzheim welcomed our first year MBA International Management students.  Monday October 5, 2020 kicked off the semester with a full week of lectures that, although expected, proved to our batch that this semester will not be a simple walk in the Black Forest.

For our non-German students, Mondays and Fridays are devoted to online German language classes that will enhance our marketability in the German workforce. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the university has taken extreme measures to not only facilitate a safe learning environment, but also to reach out to those students who have yet to physically join us in Pforzheim via video conference platforms such as Alfaview and Microsoft Teams.  As with any inaugural implementation, initially students experienced some video interruption, time delay, and microphone feedback issues but in the meantime everything is running smoothly. 

Monday and Tuesday also offered two beneficial events. A semester opening led by Prof. Strotmann, who later introduced us to the third semester students.  Furthermore, Tuesday was concluded with a walk around the Pforzheim city centre.  This walk provided useful history and insight into the city in which we now reside.  

Wednesday and Thursday provided all day lectures that introduced us newbies into subjects like marketing and supply chain management.  It became quite clear that we all had exposure in various industries, even though we may think otherwise.

The first week has proven that even though we come from various backgrounds, we are all interconnected in the processes and models that hold a business together. This became quite evident throughout the week when different lectures began referencing each other.  While we are just beginning our studies, I can confidently state that this batch is highly unique.  Not only are we motivated to succeed, but we are also overcoming barriers that the current pandemic has presented.  While some are in Pforzheim and some are abroad, we have already gained a valuable network that leaves no (wo)man behind. And that, in my opinion, is vital for the leaders of tomorrow.

Text: Gabrielle Boimann, Class of 2021
Screenshot: Gabrielle Boimann