Case Study: Bjöern Reinke MBM
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Bjöern Reinke from Hamburg, Germany. I am aged 27, and I come from a background of 4 years of engineering studies in "Environmental Engineering."
Had you been to Scotland before attending SBS?
Yes, I was on holiday for 10 days camping in the Scottish Highlands with my best friend from home.
When you arrived, what were your first impressions?
I realised that people walk upright in the rain, whereas I was still walking with my head down. That showed me what to expect from the weather. From that moment I tried to walk as proud through the rain as everybody else. I found the pub culture is even better than its excellent reputation.
And now what do you think?
The culture is welcoming and friendly. Most people are ready to assist with whatever problem you might have, and shop staff especially are extraordinarily friendly and helpful.
What has been the "best bit"?
The best bit was finding myself on top of the green highlands so close to Glasgow, with sun in my hair and new friends by my side. Some areas of the highlands are so beautiful, no matter if it's summer or winter, it is hard to believe and impossible to fully describe.
What do you like least about it?
Adding even more to the stereotype of a true German, I am sorry to say that I really missed German Bread and German Beer. But I started baking my own bread and locating some German beer!
Do you have any advice for students following in your footsteps?
Appreciate the contributions of all other cultures since those are the real reference points for the future, get involved in the course and in the local culture - go see the hills and the environment.
What do you think of SBS?
It is a place of useful learning. Lecturers are friendly and capable, motivating and understanding. Every subject is taught in combination with a parallel issue (OHRM with team focus, Business Management with Learning for Change, Information Systems with IT Knowledge). The mix of students was as challenging as useful for future work. The group tasks were moments of intense intercultural experiences for all participants. Overall it was hard work but fun.
What is the significance of the MBM to you?
The MBM is designed to add a detailed business understanding for graduates with different backgrounds and limited business experience. It will enable me to get involved in high calibre business decisions and processes whilst still having the advantage of relative young age.
Would you do it again?
Most certainly. My career is now ready to take off, combining engineering skills with business management acumen. This is looked for by the industry. I feel well prepared and equipped with state of the art theory and much experience with intercultural team-work under pressure.
Are you intending to stay in Scotland?
Yes. My education and the skills that developed due to this course got me a job in Scotland. I wanted to get my first job experience in the UK which will enable me to choose any job location in the future, including Germany and Australia.
What will you miss?
My classmates. I developed many intense friendships, most of which I know are going to last for years. Like many friendships, these have been built on intense times full of challenges and even bigger rewards.