Sussex MBA students, staff and alumni enjoy an evening together Berlin

Sussex MBA students took a four-day study trip to Berlin in March 2017 to learn more about management in government, business and research and to meet with Sussex Alumni based in the city. 

The aim of the trip was to combine active learning with history and general sightseeing. Accompanied by MBA Course Director Isabel Fischer and Teaching Fellow Anke Akoachere, students visited two conceptually very different start-up companies, attended two expert presentations on the German ministry system and their approach to CSR at the Ministry of Economy and Energy, and learned about the similarities and differences between the German and UK economies at the WZB (Berlin Social Science Centre).

In keeping with the city's great historical significance, the trip followed two themes for sightseeing: the Holocaust and the Cold War. The group visited sites including the Berlin Wall Memorial and Museum, Tränenpalast (Farwell Hall), Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz. 

The alumni networking event, organised by Anke with Serena Mitchell (BMEc Alumni Relations Coordinator) and Helen Greaves (BMEc Student Experience Co-ordinator), was well received by both current MBA students and Berlin-based Sussex alumni.

Barbara, a 1982 graduate, said:

'I spent a lovely inspiring evening which brought back good memories of Sussex. Thank you BMEc for the hospitality.'

The trip was rounded up with a visit to the Reichstag Dome followed by dinner in a traditional Berlin restaurant.

Current MBA students commented:

'I thought the trip was brilliant, Anke and Isabel did a fantastic job taking us round the sights and made it a thoroughly enjoyable trip.'

'It really was a very fun and interesting experience. It has helped bring us together as fellow students and we got to experience a very unique city.'

Anke added:

'I had a wonderful time, with inspiring and lovely people and a multitude of stimulating conversations I will never forget.'

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