Full name: Joana Dartsch
Citizenship: German
Program at BI: MSc in Strategic Marketing Management
Try to name three companies that do not have a single employee working on marketing concepts or strategies. Well, I couldn’t even name one company. That probably says enough about its importance. Today, many companies even put the customer right in the centre of every business activity and strategic. Marketers are the perfect taskforce ensuring that this continues to be the norm.
In my belief, BI has created a valuable master’s programme. The programme combines theory with important skills and techniques to become a successful strategic marketer in the future.
The programme combines various sides of the marketing discipline allowing for many different insights. Working as a customer analyst and having a rather numeric/nerdy side. I highly appreciate the marketing intelligence portion of this program. Such courses include Data Science for Marketing, Customer Value Analytics, or Marketing Research. On the other hand. I have already learned so much about different marketing strategies. Courses like Brand Management, Service Marketing, and Understanding the Consumer. It will challenge your thinking and add to your skill toolbox.
Even though the study programme sounded really compelling to me right away. Norway is not the most obvious choice. So why did I decide to move to the country of Vikings?
Firstly, my grandmother was Norwegian. I always wished for a closer connection to her culture. After visiting the country. I fell further in love with the stunning nature and my wanderlust manifested. Lastly, being awarded a scholarship as one of a few selected students made the decision quite easy.
Now that I am settled into my studies. I can confirm my decision 100%. I love how Norwegians always find a reason to spend time outside. No matter if it's sunny, raining, stormy, or snowing. Within a 20-minute walking distance from campus you will be able to start your hike, ski, or mountain bike.
Additionally, the teaching culture at BI is personal and characterized by low hierarchies. Lecturers will be offended if you call them Mr./Mrs. The discussions in and outside the classroom are highly appreciated.
As an international you will be impressed by everyone’s English proficiency. If you want to learn Norwegian. You need to actively convince people to not speak English. However, the Norwegian culture is rather introverted. It is essential to participate in extracurricular activities to meet people. BI offers many different opportunities so that you do not need to feel lonely. Even during Corona-times.
Once you sneak into a friend group. Be prepared to adjust your eating habits because Norwegians love a diet that is structured. Norway introduced Taco Friday and Risgrøt Saturdays. Also, Lompe (Sausages in small flatbreads in place of a hotdog bun) at every bonfire.
If you're thinking about applying to BI now. I'll give you a piece of advice that guided me through my studies. Seize opportunities as they arise!