From North Macedonia to Switzerland – a new opportunity, FHNW School of Business

After moving from North Macedonia to Switzerland in 2013, I had already completed my bachelor’s in International Economic Relations in Skopje. The transition to a new country came with many exciting opportunities, but also its fair share of challenges. I was learning German – my fifth language – and adjusting to a new culture and lifestyle.

Between 2013 and 2020, I worked in internships and part-time roles, but most of all, I dedicated myself to my family as a stay-at-home mom of two wonderful girls. Then the pandemic hit. I started thinking deeply about the next chapter in my life. I wanted to continue my education in Switzerland, in a way that would not only enrich my knowledge but also make a meaningful impact on both my personal and professional journey.

I wasn’t sure if I could really do it. As a mother, I knew how demanding life already was. But it was my husband who gave me the final push, saying, “You’ll never know unless you try.” And with that, I sent in my application. I was thrilled when I received my acceptance letter.

I chose FHNW and the International Management programme because I’ve always dreamed of working on a global scale and was interested about different cultures and mindsets. I’ve been fascinated by international leadership, collaboration and innovation, and this programme brought that dream to life. It truly felt like the right fit.

Throughout the programme, I met inspiring classmates from diverse backgrounds and industries. The group assignments were especially valuable, helping us bond as a cohort and build lasting friendships. Even today, I remain close with many of them.

FHNW also provided access to incredible networking opportunities: through Career Night, company visits, summer schools, and other events, giving us real exposure to real-world management practices in both Swiss and international contexts. The curriculum itself was very practical and relevant, and I still apply much of what I learned in my day-to-day work.

Looking back, enrolling in the Master’s programme in International Management at FHNW was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It not only helped me bridge a gap in my CV but also gave me the confidence and qualifications to re-enter the workforce with purpose.

Today, I’m proud to be working as a Supply Planner at Mammut Sports Group, one of Switzerland’s most premium mountaineering brands. Interestingly, my connection to Mammut began during the Cross-Cultural Consumer Behaviour module at FHNW. This course offered me the opportunity to engage directly with the brand as part of a corporate collaboration, allowing me to explore its global strategy and values in depth. That experience sparked my interest in Mammut and played a key role in my decision to pursue a career with them. In my role, I continue to build on the international mindset and skills I developed during my studies, collaborating with partners and colleagues from around the world.

Most importantly, I’ve found my passion in supply chain management, and thanks to the support and mentorship at FHNW, I’m able to apply my academic knowledge into practice every day.

What makes this journey even more meaningful is that I’ve now come full circle: as a part time coach for one of the core modules in the International Management programme, I guide Master students in academic writing and help them strengthen their research skills, supporting them as they prepare for their Master’s Thesis and beyond. It’s incredibly fulfilling to give back to a programme that gave me so much.

To anyone considering this programme: if you're looking for a truly international education, a supportive learning environment, and a stepping stone to new opportunities, I wholeheartedly recommend the International Management programme at FHNW.