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Nanna Fischer Olesen

BA-degree:

B.Sc. in International Business in Asia, Copenhagen Business School

Occupation:

MES Project Manager

QnA

Why did you choose your specific programme at SDC?

With a rather theoretical bachelor's degree from CBS, I sought a university with a more practical approach, and AAU came highly recommended. Specifically, I chose Innovation Management in China for several reasons: it offered a double degree with a Chinese university, providing an international and intercultural edge to my CV. The programme integrated management, innovation, engineering, and economics—all crucial areas for my career aspirations. Lastly, the opportunity to live in China and enjoy an adventurous international experience while pursuing my goals was compelling.


What are the most important academic skills/knowledge you have acquired during your master’s?

The practical aspect of Innovation Management has been invaluable. I've conducted extensive analysis on real firms using actual data, yielding practical and useful outcomes. Examining current challenges faced by companies and strategizing paths to achieve new strategic advantages has been a significant learning experience. Collaborating with companies on various projects throughout the programme has equipped me with the ability to analyze and strategize effectively—skills I apply daily in my current role. The Stage Gate process, in particular, has been instrumental as I implement it practically in my work.

What have you otherwise learned?

Squat toilets definitely improve your balance and strengthen your thighs.


What is the study environment like?

The study environment at SDC exposes you to diverse cultures and challenges you to collaborate with students from varied backgrounds—both culturally and academically. This presents a significant challenge but also an opportunity for tremendous personal and professional growth. Such experiences are invaluable if you aspire to work in an international setting in the future.


What do you think about the physical environment of SDC?

The SDC building was excellent, with stylish decoration, design, and ample space. The dormitories were also adequate. Having lived in other dorms in China before, I found these to be the best, despite their size. In China, you don’t really need much space for a year when you have good social areas. These spaces encourage socializing with others and studying in communal areas, preventing feelings of isolation despite being far from home.


What is the social life like?

Imagine going abroad with over 50 people, all away from home. It's like having an extended and fantastic exchange year with many like-minded individuals. There's always someone ready for a new adventure. You live together, explore together, and study diligently together.

What did you do in your spare time?

I enjoyed visiting the unrenovated part of the Great Wall near campus, especially during sunsets and different seasons. Exploring new parts of Beijing and China was definitely a favorite pastime whenever time allowed. Unfortunately, my time in China was cut short due to the Covid outbreak just a few months after we began.

Where did you intern and what did you gain from it?

Initially, I secured an internship at Innovation Center Denmark ICDK in Shanghai, but due to Covid, I couldn't return to China. Instead, I found an internship in Denmark at Schneider Electric as a Digital Marketing Analyst. There, I learned about various digital tools for analyzing and optimizing UX/UI, SEO, and creating dashboards in Power BI to support strategic proposals based on website analysis.


How has your time at SDC/your MSc programme impacted your career?

In some respects, it provided a strong foundation that supported my career goals. However, the specific direction I took was more influenced by my own initiative. Knowing I wanted to focus on Industry 4.0 and innovation initiatives, and aspiring to be a project manager, I tailored my projects accordingly. The IM program's flexibility allowed me to explore strategic, business-critical cases, often integrating aspects of Industry 4.0.


What would you wish you had known before applying to an SDC programme?

I felt well-prepared, having lived in China for two years prior to this experience.


Would you recommend others to choose the programme?

Absolutely. The opportunity to earn a double degree while living in a culturally rich and different country offers numerous adventures and challenges. I have yet to meet anyone who regretted this choice.