From Helsinki to Barcelona: An International Student’s IMBA Journey and Internship at SAP
Choosing to study abroad in Barcelona was not something Mimosa had meticulously planned. Originally from Helsinki, Finland, she discovered ESEI International Business School almost by chance while visiting the city. “I was looking at different master’s programmes and I happened to be in Barcelona when I discovered ESEI,” she recalls. “It looked fun, like there would be a lot of like-minded people there. All in all, I got a really good vibe from the school.”
One detail that really stood out to her was the flexible class schedule. With lectures held in the evenings from 6 to 9pm, students are able to balance their academic journey with professional opportunities.
“That was a huge plus for me,” Mimosa explains. “It means you can do an internship or even work full time while you study.”
Barcelona itself added to the appeal. With the beach, mountains and a big city lifestyle, it struck the perfect balance.
“I felt Barcelona was a really good choice… and I’ve always loved Spanish culture,” she says.
Stepping Into the World of Tech Sales at SAP
Mimosa is now completing a six-month internship in Barcelona with SAP at their Digital Hub, working as a Sales Development Associate (SDA) for the Nordic markets. It’s a role that provides her with valuable experience in the world of tech sales.
“As an SDA, I basically do digital hunting. I look for people to reach out to – prospects like C-level executives, enterprise architects, or other decision-makers,” she explains. “We reach out through emails, LinkedIn messages, sometimes cold calls, and then schedule discovery calls if they’re interested.”
SAP’s Barcelona hub, one of the only digital hubs in Europe, is also a uniquely international environment.
“There are people from all around the globe here, which makes it very dynamic. Even though I’m focusing on the Nordic market, I work closely with colleagues from different countries and cultures.”
The experience has sparked her ambition to continue with SAP beyond the internship:
“My role is getting me ready to become a sales development executive. For me, I would really like to stay in the company.”
Applying IMBA Skills in the Workplace
Her IMBA in Marketing and Communications at ESEI has been a valuable asset during her internship.
“Marketing has helped me with my mindset, especially when it comes to personal branding,” she says. “As an SDA, it’s really important how you brand yourself at work.”
Equally important are the intercultural skills she’s developed.
“I know how to work with a diversity of people and adapt myself to other cultures. Even though I work for the Nordics, we collaborate with people in different time zones and with different working styles. That’s definitely something I learned during my courses.”
She’s also looking forward to classes on emerging business technologies and analytics, which she believes will be directly relevant to her future career.
Advice for Other International Students
For students who want to find an internship in Barcelona with an international company, Mimosa’s advice is simple but powerful: don’t give up.
“Try to be innovative in the application process. Of course your CV has to be professional, but show your enthusiasm and motivation. Apply as much as you can.”
Authenticity, she adds, is key.
“When you do the cover letter for any company, make sure it’s really you. Be yourself and try to stand out. If you want to find a job in your own field, that’s fine, but don’t be afraid to try something different. You’ll learn a lot, and it will give you valuable experience for your CV.”
Mimosa’s Tips to Secure an Internship in Barcelona
- Stay persistent, don’t give up!
- Apply to as many opportunities as possible.
- Be authentic and show your personal skills and strengths in your applications.
- Be creative and innovative when presenting yourself to potential employers.
- Embrace new challenges because trying something different can provide valuable experience.
Building a Global Future in Barcelona
Mimosa’s journey from Helsinki to Barcelona is a great example of how studying abroad can unlock international career opportunities. By combining the academic excellence of ESEI’s IMBA programme with hands-on experience at SAP’s Digital Hub, she is shaping a future in international business while enjoying everything Barcelona has to offer.
For students considering a master’s in Barcelona, her story shows how the right environment – both inside and outside of the classroom – can open doors to exciting opportunities worldwide.
Explore ESEI’s Programmes
👉If you’re considering starting your own journey in Barcelona, explore ESEI’s Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes and see how we can support you as you settle into life here.
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