Fabian Rabenda

After completing my Bachelor of Business in Germany, I was eager to deepen my understanding of business strategy and corporate management. I visited New Zealand in 2023 and attended Manawa Mai, the University’s Open Day. I had insightful conversations with students and teaching staff. What stood out was the genuine enthusiasm everyone shared about their experience. The strong alignment between course content and real-world industry applications was a key factor in my decision.

I could clearly see how this university would help me build practical skills and prepare for diverse business challenges across industries and markets. These factors made it feel like the right place to take the next step in my professional journey.

The programme integrates core management topics with the challenges of international business, using real-world case studies to bring the concepts to life. It combines academic insight and practical relevance, helping us analyse business cases through the lens of proven models and develop thoughtful, evidence-based solutions. The programme equips you with a vast management skill set in the context of international business, preparing you to think strategically and work confidently in global environments.

CDES, the University’s Career Development and Employability Services, supports
students in preparing for their careers through workshops, resources, and employer connections. One of them is the WIP, a mentoring initiative that connects international students with alumni to gain first-hand insights into the New Zealand workplace. It’s a must-do for any international student who wants to pursue a career in New Zealand after their studies.

WIP is one of the best ways to gain practical insight into Kiwi workplace culture, expectations, and communication styles. The CDES team pairs groups of students with usually an alumnus who shares their own experiences through meetings and conversations over two months. The team at CDES supported us throughout the entire programme, ensuring we got the most value from the WIP.

The two most useful insights from WIP were the importance of personal networks in New Zealand, and the contrast between Kiwi and German workplace cultures.

I gained a clearer understanding of how crucial networking is in New Zealand, as many jobs are found through personal connections rather than formal job advertisements. This insight helped me realise how vital building and maintaining my New Zealand network is.

I also got a deeper understanding of how friendly and personal the Kiwi workplace culture can be. The openness and warmth of Kiwi culture are reflected in professional settings, creating a welcoming and collaborative environment where colleagues can often become good friends.

This differs slightly from my experience in Germany, where professional and personal lives tend to be more separate. Both workplace cultures have their strengths, and learning to navigate these differences has been a valuable part of my journey, which will be especially important after I complete my degree.

When asked this question, multiple things come to mind. Living here has allowed me to reconnect with my passion for surfing, with great waves just a short drive away. I really enjoy the warmer, sunnier climate, especially the milder winters compared to Hamburg, Germany.

The people are warm, welcoming, and easygoing, which makes it easy to feel at home immediately. Auckland is also surrounded by splendid nature, offering plenty of opportunities to explore. One of my favourite places is Waiheke Island, with its stunning beaches, island-typical atmosphere, and scenic views.

I intend to start working here in Auckland after completing my Master's degree. My degree has equipped me with essential skills in operative and strategic management, leadership, and cross-cultural communication; tools and skills that are highly relevant across industries and roles. Through the WIP, I gained valuable insights into the Kiwi workplace, which will help me to adapt quickly to the Kiwi workplace culture and environment.

The support available at the University makes a real difference, especially for international students. Additionally, they have done an excellent job in terms of strong alignment between course content and industry applications. I really feel prepared for diverse business challenges across industries and markets.

I’d also recommend making full use of CDES. Along with the WIP experience, the career workshops, CV reviews, and interview preparation sessions helped me feel more confident and prepared to enter the job market.

My advice to other students is to stay open to different paths and experiences. Whether through internships, networking events, or simply exploring the city, every opportunity helps build the skills, mindset, and network needed to succeed in New Zealand’s professional environment and worldwide.

Wrapping it up, the decision to study at UoA and to live in Auckland has been one of my best. Both the university and the city are fantastic, full of energy, diversity, and opportunity.