During the International Communication major I learned that communication is challenging but rewarding. It entails so much. I liked the freedom to explore and develop my own skills. There are extra possibilities to bring the things you learn into practice – if you’re willing. You've got to take every opportunity to get involved. Studying communication is often about exploring and being open to whatever comes your way. That’s sometimes difficult, but the reward is insight into how people cooperate. Communication is about people. It's about people working together. 

I deviated from the normal route and found my own way. If you really want to know all about communication you really have to do it from your own point view.  I have now set up my own company in communication, organisation and improvisation. I started the company because I had a range of practical skills which I wanted to combine. My tip is to broaden your horizons by going your own way within the programme. Challenge yourself.

The most important thing I have learned during the IC major is to be open minded. Throughout your life you will meet different people with different values and habits. It is important to realise what it means to communicate in a culturally sensitive, and most importantly, culturally led way. In my career I am able to recognise the difficulties that occur. Currently I am working as Account/Office Manager (part-time). Furthermore I set up my own (international) Communications company: I am investigating (international) markets for companies to offer them a thorough communication plan which is focused on the culture they need to understand in order to enter the market. 

During my abroad experiences in Portugal, France and Suriname I noticed the challenging situations will be the moments you will remember: it will change your view positively. Difficulties are given to us to determine our own path. My tip to future communication professionals is to read the book ‘The 9 Disciplines of a Facilitator’ by Jon and Maureen Jenkins, and to never be afraid. Jump into your own adventure and enjoy.

The broad curriculum of the programme offers the opportunity to explore different fields such as PR, media, marketing, business, psychology, international development and more. Personally, I especially enjoyed the various real-life projects in different fields and the group work in intercultural teams. For me that was exactly what I needed since I did not really know what I wanted to do when I started.

The curriculum in combination with great counseling from my academic advisor and abroad experience in Peru and Canada has helped me to develop both personally and professionally. Thanks to my studies I discovered my passion for intercultural training and the human side of business.

Currently I am working as Manager, Client Relations and Global Communications at a Canadian consulting firm for personal and professional development. I like the personal contact with clients from different countries and I am supporting our CEO in setting up training sessions as well as managing the social media activities.

I started studying International Communication without a clear idea of what I wanted to do (‘something with communications’) and I left inspired to build my own career based on my passion instead of just following a pre-determined path.

The international atmosphere at Hanze UAS and its School of Communication & Media was an immediate fact when I started my studies. The variety of nationalities and cultures sparked synergy during classes, projects and debates due to the different perspectives portrayed. Studying International Communication has been an interesting and rewarding adventure, which still pays off in my work. 

I conducted my graduation assignment at a company called The Talent Agency World (TTA World). Before I finished my internship they offered me a job to set up a communication department and since then we have expanded to a communication department with international projects and five employees. My task as a Global Brand & Communication Manager is to liaise with companies and students to set up communication campaigns to attract new students from all over the world. In addition, we publish magazines where I act as Chief Editor.

My experiences at International Communication have enabled me to understand the differences in cultures, especially when it comes to communication.

During my studies, I developed a special interest in visual communications, as well as in public relations and intercultural communication. The classes and internships that I enjoyed in the International Communication major have inspired me to set up my own company for communication advice and graphic design during my studies, and to continue this after graduation. I work for clients coming from multiple disciplines, whom I can assist in setting up communication strategies and by integrating their corporate identity with a proper visual representation.

Additionally, studying International Communication at Hanze UAS has motivated me to continue my academic career by doing a Master in International Communication abroad. Looking back at my time in Groningen, it seems only fair to say it has opened up my eyes to a whole world of possibilities. The International Communication major has given me the theoretical background and professional experience needed to enter the field of communications confidently and well-prepared.