Why did you decide to study for a Master's degree at TalTech School of Business and Governance (SBG) in Estonia? How did you come across the International Business in the Digital Era programme?

After finishing my bachelor’s degree in Tallinn University, I wanted to continue my academic journey without losing momentum. I was already familiar with Estonia’s education system and had grown to appreciate its emphasis on critical thinking and independence. I was looking for a programme that aligned with my interest in digital business, innovation, and global markets and that’s how I came across the International Business in the Digital Era programme at TalTech’s School of Business and Governance. The curriculum immediately caught my attention because it was practical, relevant, and future-oriented. I knew that studying at TalTech would not only deepen my business knowledge but also connect me with Estonia’s growing digital economy, which I was already beginning to explore professionally.

What were the biggest cultural or academic adjustments you had to make when moving to Estonia?

Moving from Bangladesh to Estonia was a big change. Culturally, the biggest adjustment was learning to be comfortable with silence and the very direct communication style. Estonians value personal space and honesty, which felt quite different from the more expressive, communal style I was used to. But over time, I’ve come to really respect the straightforwardness it saves time and creates clarity. Academically, I had to adapt to a more self-directed learning approach. Estonian universities expect you to take initiative, manage your time well, and build your own arguments. That was challenging at first, but it helped me grow not only as a student but also as a critical thinker and independent professional.

Can you share a memorable project or course from your Master's programme? Maybe had a lasting impact on you?

Yes, one course that really stayed with me was Digital Business Models. It explored how digital platforms operate, monetize, and scale, using real-world examples like Uber, Airbnb, and local Estonian startups. As someone interested in building digital products, this course gave me both the theoretical foundation and practical tools to assess and develop business ideas. During one group project, we had to design a digital business model from scratch. Working in a multicultural team, we faced some initial communication hurdles, but we eventually created a well-researched concept that was well received. That experience taught me a lot about collaboration, flexibility, and creative problem-solving skills that I also already knew from working at Wise as well.

You mentioned that you like developing business ideas in your spare time. Have you got any business ideas up and running yet, and what problem do they solve?

Yes! I’ve been working on several digital product ideas. One of them is SynCloud.app, a platform that simplifies transferring files between cloud drives. Syncloud.app helps with cloud to cloud transfer directly. The average person uses 3+ cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, iCloud etc.)—switching between apps, downloading files, and risking security gaps. We built Syncloud to simplify the chaos. Syncloud believes managing multiple cloud drives should be HASSLE FREE. Our platform lets you access, transfer, and organize files across all your clouds from one secure dashboard. It's designed to help people who work across multiple platforms avoid the hassle of switching accounts or downloading files manually.

Another project I’m working on is a web tool that helps users generate social media content through voice input perfect for small business owners or content creators who want to save time. I’ve also created an AI tools directory platform where developers can showcase their products, and users can easily explore new tools. All of them are in MVP stage and not yet being launched. Each idea comes from a personal or professional pain point I’ve encountered, which makes the process more rewarding.

What kind of thesis did you write, and what results did you achieve?

My Master’s thesis was titled “Aligning Banking Services with Digital Business Needs”. The research focused on how traditional banks can adapt their offerings to better serve platform-based and digital-first businesses. I conducted interviews with platform business professionals to identify specific gaps in financial services for these types of businesses. The results were quite revealing. Many digital entrepreneurs still find traditional banking services rigid and outdated. My thesis outlined practical recommendations for banks, such as developing modular services, API-based integrations, and more flexible credit models that align with the operational needs of platform businesses. I was proud to see how the findings could spark real conversations between banks and platform based startups in Estonia as well.

Do you have any recommendations for writing a Master's thesis? (Maybe regarding getting started, gathering ideas, planning time, etc.)

Definitely! The most important thing is to choose a topic that genuinely interests you, something you can stay excited about for several months. I started by exploring areas I was already curious about (digital business and fintech) and then narrowed it down after talking with professors and industry professionals. Break the process into phases: research, outline, interviews or data collection, writing, editing. I used tools like Notion to organize my ideas and Google Sheets to track deadlines and progress. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to your supervisor regularly, they’re there to support and guide you, not just to grade your work.

What challenges have you faced as an international student and young professional in Estonia, and how have you overcome them?

One of the first challenges was understanding the healthcare systems and managing a full-time job and study all took time and patience. Finding a job as a non-Estonian speaker was also tricky in the beginning. However, I focused on building a strong professional profile and learning how to position myself in the local job market. Joining student groups, local tech meetups, and online communities helped me connect with others in similar situations. Over time, I built a personal and professional network that’s been incredibly valuable for both emotional support and career growth.

Did you know anything about Estonia before you came here? What do you like most about Estonia?

Before moving here, I knew Estonia was one of the most digitally advanced countries in the world. What I didn’t realize was how easy it would be to access public services, open a business, or even file taxes online. That level of digital convenience still impresses me. What I like most, though, is the balance Estonia offers on one hand, you have a forward-thinking tech ecosystem; on the other, you’re never far from nature, quiet forests, or lakes. It’s the kind of place where you can focus and recharge at the same time.

You have already formed strong connections with Estonia, where you work at Wise, an Estonian unicorn. How did you manage to achieve this, and which of the skills you learned during your Master's degree will be most useful to you there?

I was very intentional about building my career in Estonia. While studying, I kept an eye on companies whose values aligned with mine and Wise was at the top of the list always. I tailored my application carefully and emphasized the skills I had developed both through work and study. At Wise, I work in the Workforce Management team, where I use data to help plan and optimize staffing across global teams. My master’s programme helped me strengthen analytical thinking, cross-cultural communication, and strategic planning skills that I use daily. The ability to take initiative, structure complex ideas, and collaborate across departments is something I refined during my studies and now apply at work.

What advice would you give to other international students who want to study or build a career in Estonia?

Be proactive and stay curious. Learn how things work here whether it’s the job market, the digital systems, or cultural nuances. Even small steps like learning basic Estonian or attending a local event can open unexpected doors. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to people. Estonia might seem reserved at first, but once you make a connection, people are incredibly supportive. Build your profile early, seek internships or part-time roles while studying, and remember: Estonia values initiative. If you bring a strong work ethic and fresh ideas, you’ll find your place.

Is there anything else you would like to mention that I didn't ask about?

Just that Estonia has played a big role in shaping who I am today both personally and professionally. I came here as a student, and I’m now building a career and life in a place that feels like home. For anyone considering the move, I’d say: take the leap. The opportunities are real if you’re ready to work for them.

Explore the programme and apply now: taltech.ee/en/masters-programmes/international-business-in-the-digital-era