‘One word to describe International Communication? Empowering’

Susanna Ferri is a fourth-year International Communication student. She has been living abroad throughout her academic journey, in Brussels for the Erasmus experience and in Marseille for her internship. Creativity and critical thinking are the most relevant takeaways from her time at Hanze.

‘I grew up in a classical Italian city, but during my teenage years I felt the need to expand my horizons, meet new people, exchange perspectives, and visit countries. During the International Communication Open Day, I had the chance to speak to professors and students who gave me a clear overview of what the coming years would look like. International Communication seemed to me a broad programme where I could explore the field and eventually focus on one segment, Public Relations, Public Affairs, Visual Communication, Branding, Marketing…’

Practice, practice, practice

‘And that first impression turned out to be right. I have had the opportunity to work with several international clients, each with different communication challenges. The programme's coaches give you the chance to collaborate with NGOs, small businesses and large organisations. Because of this broadness, you eventually get a clear idea of the professional path that suits you best. For instance, in my third year, I worked in France for a French-Italian institution where I applied all the intercultural communication principles I had learnt in the first two years. In my second year, I helped a Dutch refugee organisation gather more volunteers. Having experiences in different fields helped me to search for an internship, expand my network, and eventually apply for jobs.’

Ready to start!

‘The programme offers a dynamic and forward-thinking learning environment. I met people from all over the world — people who might one day become colleagues. The dynamic teaching style helps you figure out the best way to approach a project, both for yourself and for your client. International Communication isn’t just about learning information, memorising it and passing an exam. It’s about applying your knowledge, exchanging ideas with professionals and preparing for your career. It has helped me develop my creativity to make my projects stand out and sharpened my critical thinking to support my decisions. International Communication, in one word, is empowering. It empowers you to become whoever you want to be.