Can you introduce yourself briefly?
My name is Usha, currently 25 years old. I graduated with a Bachelor degree in Commercial Economics at the HAN University of Applied Sciences at the end of 2015, and started my Premaster at Tilburg University in September 2016. I then went on to obtain a Master’s degree in Business Communication and Digital Media, graduating in February 2018. From 2017 to 2018, I was an active member of Flow as the commissioner of the Premaster and Master Committee.

Could you tell me something about the company you work for now?
After my studies I moved to Geneva where I currently work and live. I first worked at a digital agency, but currently I am working at the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). ITU is a specialised agency of the United Nations that is responsible for issues that concern information and communication technologies. It is the oldest among all the 15 specialised agencies of the UN. Founded in 1865 to facilitate international connectivity in communications networks, ITU allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits, develops the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies seamlessly interconnect, and strives to improve access to information and communications technology to underserved communities worldwide. Basically, every time you make a phone call via a mobile phone, access the Internet or send an email, you are benefitting from the work of the ITU!

How did you end up at your current job?
I saw the position advertised on LinkedIn and applied via the website.

How quickly did you get a job after graduating?
After I moved to Geneva, I followed a language course to familiarize myself with the local language since Geneva is French-speaking. I followed a French course at the University of Geneva for a month and then actively started looking for work. I found my first job at the digital agency within a month and moved to my current role after one year.

How did you select the type of job you wanted to apply for when applying?
I was interested to work in digital marketing and came across the company online. The company I worked for had not advertised a position, but after I called them, introduced myself and asked about potential opportunities, the CEO invited me in for an interview and two weeks later I was hired. My current employer, ITU, advertised the position and I was interested in the specifications of the role and decided to apply based on my strong personal interest of the role. The ITU is a very different type of organization, given its status and size, however it is extremely interesting and rewarding to work for.

What is your job title at the moment?
Right now, I am supporting the Capacity and Digital Skills Development Division of ITU, and in particular the ITU Academy. ITU Academy is the ITU capacity building initiative that brings together under one umbrella a wide range of training activities and knowledge resources in information and communication technologies. This is done through trainings, workshops and events.

Can you tell us something about your daily work?
My daily activities vary per day and since our partners and customers are worldwide, the work never really stops. I provide support concerning the ITU platform platform (ITU Academy), prepare marketing material and campaigns, and assist the senior leadership teams.

To what extent do your studies reappear in your work? Does it connect properly?
I think the BDM Master program is quite theoretical and rigorous in its detail, but also provides you with the opportunity to develop your critical thinking skills, which I think are very useful in the workplace. Moreover, I believe your thesis plays an important role as employers tend to ask about your topic, interest in the area, and research methods. I also believe that having a Master’s degree is of great advantage when looking for work abroad. I truly enjoyed the experience with Flow as a commissioner which I believe has also benefitted me while searching for jobs abroad.