Where are you from? Which university did you graduate from? 

I grew up in Germany for the majority of my life, but since 2015 I have travelled and lived in different countries around Europe. After I finished my International Baccalaureate in Romania, I knew I wanted to continue my studies in English and somewhere I had not been yet. I ended up in the beautiful Baltics, specifically at Mykolas Romeris (MRU) in Vilnius, where I graduated with a BA in Global Business and Modern Marketing. During those three years I fell in love with the Baltics and chose to continue my Master’s at TalTech School of Business and Governance (SBG) in Estonia.

Is there a difference between the education system in Estonia and the education system at your previous university?

The TalTech education system is quite similar to the one from MRU. It is a healthy mix of the theoretical part of the studies, but also a good portion of real-world case analysis and guest lectures. To my knowledge, the Estonian education system—and especially at TalTech SBG—is extremely modern and advanced. The technological advancements are at the forefront of the study core.

Why did you decide to do your Masters in TalTech School of Business and Governance (SBG) Estonia? How did you come across the International Business in the Digital Era curriculum?

From my Bachelor and other international experience, I was looking for a globally accepted and advanced Master’s program. My own research in the Baltics and Nordics led me to the degree at TalTech, International Business in the Digital Era. The program offered me everything I aimed for in my business studies, while also offering a small twist of modernism. TalTech SBG also allows me to choose extra courses around the degree and my own minor, hence why I chose this adaptable and up-to-date program.

Additionally, TalTech also offers good exchange opportunities around Europe under the Erasmus+ program. This was the final deciding point for me to enroll in this diverse, challenging, and modern program.

How satisfied are you with your choice so far? Did you know anything about Estonia before you came here?  

Before I first came to the Baltics, I barely knew about their existence, nor what their culture offers and how the people are. I think from an overall perspective, all three offer their unique beauty and an amazing culture. While it sometimes takes time to make a Baltic friend, once you do, it's a friendship forever.

Is it affordable for you to be a student in Estonia?

I think Tallinn, Estonia, offers a beautiful location, from which I can explore the rest of the neighboring countries. The central location of Tallinn, with its beautiful Old Town, is perfectly suitable for my student life. The cost of studies and living has increased over the years a bit, but I still think it's very much affordable from a student perspective and I get to have an enjoyable life.

What do you like most about Estonia?

The one thing I love the most about Estonia is the direct access to the Baltic Sea and the beautiful, endless nature. Sometimes I feel like the places I go to are untouched and remain peaceful. While it might be cold in winter, the snow and frozen trees are beautiful in themselves.

Which subjects or topics have you found most interesting so far? Did the curriculum meet your expectations or was there anything that surprised you?

The courses offered at TalTech SBG can definitely be challenging, but rewarding once the right time is invested. During my first semester, all courses were interesting to me and helped me to further build my international mindset and cross-cultural cooperation.

To my surprise, there are a lot of professors who come not only from a rich academic background, but also have a lot of real-world work experience. There were a lot of interesting stories we learned from and applied to the course material. The shared life lessons are definitely a highlight for me.

What is the most interesting or unexpected thing you have learnt in Estonia? Have there been any particularly memorable or funny cultural differences?

I think Estonians, despite their shyness and reserved approach, once they become your friend, are the best people you can spend a weekend with. It takes time to open up with an Estonian, which I still find interesting to this day, but once that is overcome, you share a lifelong trusted relationship.
Coming from a slow and bureaucratic Germany, seeing how advanced and modern the government is just amazed me. Everything can be done in seconds, and to my surprise, even the parking garages are automated. Ironically, that is something we barely have in Germany, but many things are super automated and can be controlled through your phone. Something new for me for sure, but I cannot live without it anymore.

What advice would you give to future international students considering studying at TalTech SBG?

There is really one piece of advice I would give to anyone: be open to Estonian culture, explore all the opportunities at TalTech, and embrace yourself for the best time in your life. The School members and student councils are there to help you; trust and use them to your advantage, as they want you to succeed in life. It might be hard at the beginning to be in a different culture and country, but Estonia and life at TalTech are full of warmth and new challenges.

Are you considering staying in Estonia or moving elsewhere after you graduate?

Never say never, but I think my time in the Baltics is slowly coming to an end. I learned a lot about different cultures, and especially in Estonia, I fell in love again. I think it prepared me well for my future international career and I will definitely take on more challenges in new countries around the world. Once I graduate, I will continue to pursue a career in new places, but who knows, maybe I will come back to Estonia :)

Admissions for International Business in the Digital Era and other programmes is open from 1 March.
Explore the programme and apply now: taltech.ee/en/masters-programmes/international-business-in-the-digital-era