For Marie-Theres Schumacher from Germany ships and sailing have become more than a passion. She has chosen to study Shipping Management at the BI Norwegian Business School.
- I was born in Bremen, home to one of the world's largest seaports. Ships and harbours have fascinated me ever since I was a small child. Besides, I love sailing and I have spent many summers devoting myself to this leisure pastime of mine, Marie-Theres comments.
- Global container shipping activity is estimated to grow more than sevenfold within the next forty years and roughly ninety percent of international trade is carried out by ocean carrier. Shipping is a highly international industry that is expected to grow spectacularly in the coming decades. By studying Shipping Management at BI, I am strategically investing in my future, Marie-Theres concludes.
Marie-Theres is in her first year studying a bachelor’s degree in Shipping Management. So far she has had no regrets.
- Moving to Norway and studying Shipping Management was one of the best decisions I ever made. The curriculum is interesting and diverse and I have found a lot of friends in a short period of time. I am also very fond of the practical tuition focus. The knowledge we acquire is thus more relevant to the industry I would like to enter after graduation.
- In the Maritime Industry course, we had representatives of different sectors within the Shipping industry dropping by every single week, giving guest lectures and presenting their company. We had the chance to ask questions and harvest useful insights on employment opportunities and our professional outlook in the shipping industry. We also receive the chance to build a sound professional network, which is of essential importance in the Shipping industry, Marie-Theres adds.
Broad basis for business
The first year gives a broad basis for understanding shipping business. The two following years focus on more specialized shipping-related courses.
- The first year is centred around discussing different perspectives and taking a look at business conduct from different angles, for example the financial side of business is explored in the financial accounting course, while a psychological view of organizations forms part of the organizational behaviour course.
- In class we are always asked to reflect on the course content and be critical consumers of information, what I personally like very much. Our ideas and opinions count and are being discussed in class. The lecturers want us to understand the content of their respective subjects and make an effort to guide us through their course so that we learn a lot and perform well on exams, something that I consider very important.
Excellent job opportunities
In a few years' time, Marie-Theres will be applying for her first full-time job. She feels BI will give her the necessary education to be able to apply directly for a job relevant to her study.
- I don't know yet what field I would like to work in – perhaps in the insurance, bank or shipbroking sector, or something completely different. I am planning to apply for internships in different sectors of the Shipping industry in order to find out which jobs best suit my personal interests and qualifications.
