“The postgraduate program in economic diplomacy and international business gave me the unique experience of taking part in a program that explored the intersect between global business and international diplomacy.
One of the best qualities of the programs is the commitment that the BDA devotes to the students. By maintaining small groups, each student can create a closer connection with both educators and BDA staff who offer their time, effort and network to help you to grow. I got the sense of being viewed by educators as not only a student but an up-and-coming professional. The setting of the BDA classes also fosters the students to think of themselves as professionals as there is a strong focus on practical issues related to business and diplomacy. By continuously solving problems using the framework, you are prepared for managing your working life after graduation.
I think there is only so much that education can do in determining the long-term success of one’s professional life; most is up to the individual. However, at the BDA they make sure that you have a strong understanding of the world that you are stepping into. For instance, I could not count how many times I have been saved from making a faux pas thanks to the course provided in diplomatic protocol, or how useful it is being forced to review your shortcomings in public speaking once you have to make real speeches and need to be on point. By learning directly from professionals, you get a sense of what the standard is, and I know that I grew a lot from the experience of studying at the BDA.
Through the program, I learned many skills that I use daily in my current position as Secretary-General at the Swedish-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in Lisbon and I firmly believe that the program will be to the benefit of anyone wishing to pursue a career within the realm of economic diplomacy.”