Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

From my former employment, I identified that a key hindrance to the growth of several SMEs was poor financial and economic policy formulation and implementation. Since assisting our clients in drafting the right financial policies was a focal task in my role, I wanted a program that could provide me with a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge, and improve my analytical skills and expertise to enhance my contribution to our clients. Additionally, I wanted a program with a diverse student body so I could gain insight into different perspectives on various topics while enhancing my intercultural skills.

When I came across MIDE during my research, I was impressed by the program content. The stories from alumni shared on the website further convinced me that the program is a perfect fit for my needs and would help me achieve my goals.

What is special about this study programme?

I can speak of many special features of the MIDE programme, but the most important for me are:

a.       The diversity of students/participants: I shared the class with students from more than 20 countries, representing almost every continent. This diversity enriched our discussions and allowed me to understand various topics from multiple perspectives. Additionally, I enhanced my intercultural skills through my interactions with my colleagues.

b.       Skill development: The program is structured to foster the development of relevant skills, such as presentation, research, and analysis, starting from the first semester. This prepares students to undertake complex and challenging tasks and contribute well-informed solutions.

Where are you currently working and for how long?

Name of Organization: BASF

Position: Junior Controller

Duration: Since November 2023

What do you like the most about your job?

A couple of things:

a.       Flexible working environment: I am able to schedule my working times to fit my daily activities, and I also work in a hybrid mode.

b.       Constant growth pattern: My daily activities involve several challenging tasks that enable me to learn new things every day. Additionally, there are numerous growth opportunities that would allow me to develop myself and take on new challenges at different levels.

c.       Diverse workforce and sense of belonging: The workplace has a highly diversified workforce and a strong sense of belonging. This environment feels like a continuation of the MIDE program.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

Yes, my advice would be not to take delight in submitting several applications but to ensure that the relevant skill sets and experiences necessary to execute tasks are emphasized in the application and are excellently aligned with the requirements of the job opening. “Know what you know, and what you do not know” and be strategic about it when preparing your applications. Most importantly, build and strengthen your connections and reach out to them for assistance and/or recommendations if necessary. Finally, believe in yourself and do not be discouraged by rejections.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/ alumni?

The last time I met a fellow MIDE alumnus was in May 2024. Since I live in Berlin and many of my intake year colleagues also live in and around Berlin, I meet them with ease. We usually organize to watch football matches in sports bars and spend time together afterwards. Additionally, in summer, we organize to meet in parks or other places when other colleagues show interest. However, we have constant exchanges via our WhatsApp platform.

Is there anything else you want to add?

Please focus on your personal development right from the start of the program and take advantage of all activities and opportunities that are communicated during the program; these are meant to boost your confidence and better prepare you for the corporate world. Finally, connect with the right people and stay connected for the best opportunities after the program.

The interview was conducted in May 2024.

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

Before embarking on my MIDE journey at HTW Berlin, I had been a part of International Development Cooperation for several years. Throughout this period, I realized that the global challenges are complex and often, solutions fall short of expectations. MIDE program at HTW Berlin attracted me because it offered a holistic understanding of the issues in International and Development Economics as well as equips students with essential skills to address these challenges effectively.

What is special about this study programme?

There are a lot of things that I liked about the program but the following definitely stood out:

1)      Multicultural environment: Learning opportunities from students coming from different regions of the world.

2)      Policy and Practice Integration: The program is designed very well, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application.

3)      Expert Faculty: This program has excellent faculty members that are committed to fostering an environment of ambition, curiosity and collaboration.  

Where are you currently working and for how long (June 2024)?

Name of Organization: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit

Position: Impact Measurement and Reporting Specialist

Duration: Since November, 2023

What do you like the most about your job?

I am working in a very ambitious project that brings together multiple stakeholders with the aim to significantly reduce GHG emissions by leveraging technology and climate startups. What I really like about the job is that we are making an impact across 16 countries by driving sustainability in entrepreneurship.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

My advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni would be to keep up-to-date as the sustainability sector is still emerging with new regulations and standards. If you have already identified your ideal career path, then stay informed by subscribing to the newsletter from leading organizations in that industry.

On another note, I would also advice the incoming students to effectively leverage the flexibility of the program and use this time to learn more about the career they are interested in and develop skills accordingly.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/ alumni?

A couple of months ago in Berlin.

The interview was conducted in May 2024.

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

I was particularly impressed by how the program is grounded in economics while also offering a wide range of complementary subjects related to development, politics, and social issues, with an international and heterodox perspective. Having previously worked in the public sector of my country, I was looking for the opportunity to discuss socio-economic development topics not only theoretically but also practically. With MIDE being a program led by top-tier professors and attended by students with diverse experiences from their respective countries, I felt it was the perfect environment to grow professionally where I could learn about others' experiences in policy design and their outcomes. For me, MIDE offered the ideal blend of theory, practice, and peer discussions.

What is special about this study programme?

I found it crucial that the program attracts students from diverse international backgrounds, which promises an enriching experience. Additionally, it is an experience that fosters strong friendships which happen in between trips and activities designed for learning various topics and conduct applied research, but also to share and have fun. Lastly, and certainly not least, this master's program takes place in the vibrant city of Berlin, known for its diverse cultures, rich history, and myriad of activities, making MIDE an all-encompassing experience for me.

Where are you currently working and for how long?

Name of Organization: Inter-American Development Bank

Position: Research Fellow

Duration: Since June 2024

What do you like the most about your job?

I am still new to the job, but the unit where I am working: OVE (Office of Evaluation and Oversight) is responsible for independently evaluating the bank's operations and activities. I like the fact that I am doing something meaningful to improve the interventions the bank has in Latinamerica and the Caribbean, as the projects and program have a direct impact on the lives of people in those countries. I also really appreciate that is a place where I can learn about many sectors of the economy and work in an international context.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

My advice would be to network actively with professionals in the field through conferences, seminars, etc. This is very helpful to learn from other’s experiences and to find new opportunities in the area of expertise you want to focus on. Lastly, to keep up-to-date with research, news and best practices in the development area.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/ alumni?

Some weeks ago, while I was still living in Berlin. We had many meetings and picnics specially since the spring started.

The interview was conducted in June 2024.

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

I chose to consider HTW Berlin International and Development Economics master’s program as I felt that this program recognizes the importance of breaking away from the traditional approaches to development, with greater focus on rethinking development, program design and evaluation from multidisciplinary approaches, not as a mere academic exercise, but in practical implementation terms.

What is special about this study programme?

The program places a strong emphasis on global economic relationships and development processes. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of the economic dynamics that affect developing countries, international trade and financial markets. Also the program attracts students from around the world fostering a multicultural learning environment. This diversity enhances the learning experience by allowing students to gain different perspectives on global economic issues.

Where are you currently working and for how long?

Name of Organization: Media in Corporation and Transition

Position: Project Officer

Duration: August 2022

The interview was conducted in May 2024.

What do you like the most about your job?

The project I am part of forms part of the Hannah Arendt Initiative, supported by the German Federal Foreign Office and the Federal Commissioner for Culture and the Media which provides essential support for at-risk journalists and media makers from crisis and conflict regions. What I genuinely love about the job is how we have been able to help over 500 journalists and media makers from over 20 countries including Afghanistan, Belarus, Libya, Myanmar, Sudan and other global emergency situations in the last two years.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

If you're early in your career, seek out internships or volunteer positions with development agencies or NGOs. Having field experience is helpful however, cultivating a mindset that is flexible and solution oriented is most important.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/alumni?

Last night:-).

 

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

At the time of submitting my application, I was working as an economic analyst at a bank. The analysis I provided was a building block in a framework to maximize profits from bank business. However, the macro data underscoring the development challenges in Egypt kept itching at the back of my brain. This inspired me to further my understanding of economic development. I saw MIDE as an excellent opportunity to do that while adding a strong credential to my CV.

 

What is special about this study programme?

There are quite a few unique qualities about MIDE. First, the professors are extremely dedicated to their trade. They did not only seek to teach but also to inspire. Second, the refresher on economics in the first and second semesters went beyond the orthodox. I would not have been satisfied with receiving education on one theory of development or economic model and sticking with it. Third, the different cultural backgrounds of the participating colleagues opened the way for dynamic discussions. They seldom ended in agreement, but we all plucked the fruits of knowledge along the way. Fourth and finally, the strong administrative team and dedicated programme coordination proved an invaluable asset in reaching the finish line.

 

Where are you currently working and for how long (as of May 2022)?

Name of Organization: The World Bank

Position: Consultant

Duration: Since November 2021

 

What do you like the most about your job?

Exploring the economic principles underlying business in one of the world’s most important development agencies. I am also thankful for the professional experience and networking opportunities.

 

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

On the technical side, develop a core competency in which you wish to specialize. However, having a good understanding of the different key aspects of development is a strong alternative.

On the soft-skill side, your abilities only matter if you can function as a member of the team, and as a leader when need be. Clear and respectful communication is key.

Most importantly, reach out and apply even if you do not believe you will be accepted. Below are some opportunities:

·       The Young Professionals Program.

·       Junior Professional Associates Program.

·       Listing of current job openings at the World Bank Group.

 

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/ alumni?

The last time I physically met a fellow MIDE student was when my dear friend Chris Arteaga dropped me off at Berlin’s airport back in October 2021. More recently, I had a great virtual chat with my dear friend Tanyi for the HTW Berlin students podcast.

The interview was conducted in May 2022.

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

I wanted a program that could offer both theoretical and practical knowledge of how development challenges can be addressed. The course content of MIDE provided what I was searching for which made it a great fit for me.

What is special about this study programme?

MIDE provides a multicultural learning environment that gives students exposure to the realities in different countries. Classes are structured in a way that allows students to discuss freely and build team playing skills. The knowledge and skills gained make MIDE graduates more competitive candidates in the job market.

Where are you currently working and for how long?

Name of Organization: United Nations Office for Project Services

Position: Infrastructure and Project Management Analyst

Duration: Started in September 2019 (as of September 2020)

What do you like the most about your job?

I love that I can proffer innovative solutions to global challenges. Being able to support governments in planning and implementing infrastructure projects that address the needs of particularly the poor and vulnerable in the society is a highly fulfilling experience.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

First, be passionate about sustainable development and follow global conversations in this field. Be dedicated to self-development and take advantage of online resources to expand your skillset. I also encourage you to be disciplined and believe that you can achieve whatever you set your mind to do, notwithstanding the setbacks you might face.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/alumni?

During my summer holiday in August 2020, I met with some friends from my MIDE intake in Berlin. One of my friends hosted a dinner at her house which gave us all an opportunity to catch up and relive many priceless MIDE moments.

The interview was conducted in November 2020.

 

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

I decided to study MIDE at HTW Berlin for three main reasons:

(1) I wanted to enroll in a programme that focused on Development Economics to better help me understand the challenges of my home country which is Small Island Developing State (SIDS) in the Caribbean.

(2) Having studied in the Caribbean (Barbados) for my undergraduate degree I wanted a different cultural experience for my postgraduate studies. Given that HTW is in Berlin, Germany I was excited at the idea of living and studying in Europe.

(3) This reason was probably the most influential for me…the MIDE programme was significantly more affordable in comparison to other programmes I had considered.

What is special about this study programme?

I found this study programme to be extra special because of the diversity of the programme participants. It was amazing to meet to people from so many different parts of the world that I would have likely never met had it not been for this programme.

Where are you currently working and for how long?

Name of Organization: Caribbean Association of Banks Inc.

Position: Research Officer

Duration: 11 months 

What do you like the most about your job?

I love the fact that I am learning a great deal about the Caribbean’s financial services industry. Before I assumed this role, I had not previously worked in this industry and so while there was a bit of learning curve the experience to date has exceeded my expectations. This job has helped me deepen my understanding of the challenges faced by Caribbean SIDS so I am better able to make a difference.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

All I would say is to apply! As I said previously, I never worked in this field before, but I decided to take a chance and here I am today. With the MIDE qualification I am sure prospective employers will take a closer look at your CV and be willing to give you an opportunity.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/alumni?

Unfortunately, the last time I met with a fellow MIDE student was in October 2019 in Berlin. Since I have returned to my home country, I keep in contact with the friends I made during the programme via phone and text (thank you technology!).

The interview was conducted in December 2020.

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

Coming from Mexico, and knowing some poor areas of the country, guided me to be interested on poverty issues and to look for its solutions. When I studied economics at the National Autonomous University of Mexico my interest on development economics became stronger and, after some years of working, I started to look for a programme which would fulfill my interests and would guide me to job opportunities where I could work for improving people’s life. I found myself checking Public Policy master’s degrees, but MIDE convinced me through the specialized curricula on developing economies, as well as the intercultural environment it offers. 

What is special about this study programme?

I consider MIDE as an exceptional programme because it gave me a large view of the development history in the world, several approaches of development, and a clear view of failures and success cases. It provided me with a wide understanding of the world’s economic development problems and a further view other than the Mexican and Latin-American situation. MIDE provides, besides great knowledge on theory, a substantial approach to reality.

Additionally, the opportunity to interact with students from all over the world, mainly from developing countries, is unique.

Where are you currently working and for how long?

Name of Organization: Inter-American Development Bank (IADB)

Position: Consultant for Social Protection and Health Division

Duration: Started in October 2019 (as of August 2020)

What do you like the most about your job?

The part I like the most about my job is to know that my work has an important impact on development projects and policies, and more important, on people’s life. Likewise, being part of an international organization, which has an important role on development and with credibility from governments and population keeps me satisfied every day.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

My advice would be to be consistent on what you want to achieve and the interests you have, be conscious of your strengths and weaknesses, but never underestimate yourself. What you have learned during MIDE provides great knowledge and, moreover, understanding of development issues.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/ alumni?

The last time I met with fellow MIDE students was in February. I first came back to Mexico in October 2019 for a 4-month contract at the IADB so, as I was not sure about what would happen after those four months, I still had a couple of things to arrange back in Berlin. It was a great excuse to meet with fellow MIDE students. Nevertheless, although distance makes it hard to meet in person with them, I can proudly say that I keep contact with them via whatsapp or videocalls.

Is there anything else you want to add?

The main projects I am supporting are the Regional Malaria Elimination Initiative and the Mesoamerican Health Initiative, which are focused on the elimination of malaria and the improvement of maternal and child health in Mexico and Belize. I am happy that all the lessons, debates, presentations, and case studies learned during MIDE are an important part of my everyday tasks.

The interview was conducted in August 2020.

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

I was in Berlin in 2007 and I just fell in love with the city, everything was a surprise, I loved the story of it and somehow it thrilled me to be in a place that was the center of the entire cold war (to my foolish surprise, the city had changed a lot in 10 years). Then, after more than 10 years I found the program and it was an instant match, I have always been interested in development topics and international economics has always been my passion.

What is special about this study programme?

The program is great and the teachers during my intake were amazing, but the thing I find the most special is the friends I made. I became part of a network of not only excellent professionals but also an amazing group of friends that I deeply admire. I learned so much from them, I can surely state that my life got better because of all the friends I made in my intake.

Where are you currently working and for how long?

Name of Organization: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Position: Chief of the Regional Integration Unit (Minister-Counsellor)

Duration: Since December 2019

What do you like the most about your job?

I like two things in particular, first all the responsibilities and the challenges that come with it, on a daily basis I take decisions that are relevant for the entire country. The second thing is the usage of my academic abilities, I apply many things that I learned during my entire career.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

Well, I think that is important for you to get familiar with your countries diplomatic system before taking a decision about it. Then, of course prepare yourself with more knowledge about the international systems and laws surrounding international organizations.
On the informal side of advice, prepare for a lot of politics, a lot of bureaucracy and be ready to be given a lot of responsibilities.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/alumni?

I am not a 100% sure but it was somewhere in October, regardless I keep close touch with most of my fellow MIDE colleagues and to be fair we had (have?) a pandemic during most of the time I was out of Berlin. Nonetheless I still miss most of them.

The interview was conducted in August 2020.

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

Because it was the perfect fit for what I was looking for: a great curriculum of international development economics, in a country that is known for having excellent educational programs, and in a city as diverse and affordable as Berlin.

What is special about this study programme?

I believe the students are a big part of what makes it special, having a diverse group of people from all over the world brought many interesting discussions and presentations during class. Moreover, the professors taught classes in different ways which also enriched the learning process. 

Where are you currently working and for how long?

Name of Organization: Central Bank of the Dominican Republic, Department of National Accounts and Economic Statistics

Position: Technical Assistant

Duration: 1 year (as of August 2020)

What do you like the most about your job?

The fact that I get to contribute towards strong and reliable data that is necessary for decision-making for policy makers.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

When applying to job opportunities, do not be discouraged if you don’t meet all the requirements: highlight your strengths and show that you are eager to learn more on the job.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/alumni?

I currently live with one (my partner), other than that last time I met a fellow alumni (my best friend) was 3 weeks ago, she lives in the same city as me.

The interview was conducted in August 2020.

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

I had been an undergraduate student at HTW before MIDE, so I had a rough idea that the program should be a good one. Also, ever since I was a child I have been interested in faraway places and different cultures and I wanted to work in the development sector even before MIDE. The program simply seemed like the right fit for me.

What is special about this study programme?

You have the opportunity to interact, learn, discuss and have fun with people from different social and cultural upbringing, that’s what makes MIDE the most special for me. Academically, I think it’s a huge advantage to discuss development topics with a diverse group such as the MIDE students. This is a far more fruitful approach I think than debating current world issues solely with friends and people from your own social bubble.

Where are you currently working and for how long?

1. Name of Organization: Deutsche Bank
2. Position: Anti Money Laundering Analyst.
3. Duration: I started in September 2020. I came back to Berlin in March 2020. Before, I lived and worked in Uganda for a while.

What do you like the most about your job?  

At first: That it’s a decent job I was able to secure recently. As for many others too in these crazy Covid times, the struggle and uncertainty were real for the last month. Second: The analytical part of my work. You have to dive into the data and come to an assumption on your own, I like that.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

The field is quite competitive. It’s a good idea to set yourself some kind of strategy. Where do I want to work, what do I want to do? Which are ways that my goal becomes more likely? I think networking, persistence and the gathering of information on who are possible employees in the field are key to find a job in development. Enjoy your time in Berlin, don’t be too stressed about the future but look for opportunities that might make other people remember your name at a later point.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/ alumni?

Yesterday in the kitchen with Juan Diego Morillo. We used to be in the same MIDE intake, now we are flatmates.

The interview was conducted in November 2020.

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

I was looking for a graduate programme that could provide me with a good mix of development economics courses with a hand-on component to it and MIDE looked like a perfect mix of both – plus a programme that focuses on LDCs in the heart of Germany was an easy choice for me to make.

What is special about this study programme?

There are so many things that make it a special study programme; be it the diverse range of courses it offers or the excursions which introduce you to ground realities of international and development economics. But I believe the most special thing about this study programme is the diverse set of students who bring in their unique multidisciplinary ideas and experiences – this allows you to grow and experience a lot as an economist as well as a human being.

Where are you currently working and for how long?

Name of Organization: UN Agencies (UNDP & UN Women)

Position: Programme Officer

Duration: UNDP (2017-19) UN Women (2019 till date, August 2020)

What do you like the most about your job?

My job allows me to not only examine the various development challenges that we are facing at the moment but also provides me with room to come up with concrete interventions to solve them through innovative and realistic thinking.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

What you are studying in the MIDE coursework will help you a lot in getting a job with any UN Agency – the unique combination of international and development economics focusing on LDCs not only builds up your knowledge base but also enhances your critical thinking skills. Also, keep applying, don’t give up – hiring processes take up time.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/alumni?

I met a couple of my fellow MIDE friends in 2018 while I was visiting Berlin for some work. It felt like I never left the city – or to be poetic the city never left me.

Is there anything else you want to add?

Berlin wird immer meine zweite Heimat sein!

The interview was conducted in August 2020.

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

I wanted to complement my studies of international business with a economics related master programme after I had already gained working experience in the field of development cooperation. I aimed it to be not a theoretical and “standard” economic study which is offered by many other universities and was looking for something truly international. 

What is special about this study programme?

The internationality and diversity of the students is in my opinion the most special about MIDE. The small group of students gives a lot of room for valuable discussions during classes and interactions with the Profs, sharing views and experiences from all over the world.

Where are you currently working and for how long?

Name of Organization: DEG – Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH

Position: Vice President

Duration: 10 years

What do you like the most about your job?

DEG, the German development finance institution, has a wide variety of jobs to offer. I started as a trainee for investment management and worked my way through different sectors and developing countries where DEG finances private sector players to generate a positive development impact, always being very close to our clients, traveling a lot and meeting many inspiring people. I have recently changed my field of work and am now responsible for stakeholder management as well as the use of concessionary funds. This means a lot of insightful interaction with German ministries, especially the Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), but also NGOs, the German parliament and trade associations.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

I am happy to answer any question you might have – just contact me. 

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/ alumni?

It is a year ago when I met a fellow alumni in Berlin – our connecting city.

 
 

 

 

Why did you decide to study MIDE at HTW Berlin?

After doing a Bachelor’s in international relations I was interested in following a master’s on development economics. Moreover, Germany offers great quality education at affordable prices, both tuition and cost of living. From the choice available in this field in Germany MIDE offered a development economics programme open not only to economics graduates, in a great location and with the DAAD’s EPOS endorsement.

What is special about this study programme?

My year in MIDE was a very enriching experience, with lots of classmates from different cultural, professional, and educational backgrounds. Moreover, MIDE follows a very multidisciplinary method and unorthodox approach to economics that I have found very useful for my subsequent work. In addition, the international connections of MIDE, particularly through the DAAD, allowed to follow the career path that I’m on now. 

Where are you currently working and for how long?

Name of Organization: UN Conference on Trade and Development

Position: Chief, Group Liaison

Duration: I have held different positions at UNCTAD since 2006.

What do you like the most about your job?

I like being able to work in development with the wider focus of countries, regions and issues that can be found through working in an international organization.

Could you give any advice for MIDE outgoing students or alumni interested in this field or type of job?

Every career path can seem daunting and difficult at first, getting properly informed in advance and persevering in your pursuit are two indispensable success factors in my experience.

When and where was the last time you met with a fellow MIDE student/ alumni?

I have been constantly in touch with many MIDE former classmates, as recently as last year I saw several of them, both in Geneva and during business trips.

The interview was conducted in August 2020.