EMUNI’s approach to higher education is inspired by the effort to foster intercultural dialogue, science diplomacy and innovation grounded sustainability. However, it is also guided by a pragmatism in providing students and graduates with the hard skills and open-mindedness that will help their future in the job market.
These goals are best represented by the emphasis on mobility within the framework of EMUNI’s Master in Intercultural Business Communication (IBC). Indeed, it is a matter of pride for EMUNI to see our students prove their capabilities during their traineeships abroad and engage in projects of social inclusivity.
Eslam Badawy Mostafa completed his Erasmus+ Student Mobility for Traineeship/Study from 21 November 2023 – 20 February 2024 at Dipl. BW (FH) Sabine Gromer, M.A in Vienna, Austria, a company that focuses on executive coaching, facilitation and public speaking.
During Eslam´s mobility experience, he assisted the Director in her tasks, where he observed her and the team at work, attending weekly Monday meetings and learning from the organisation of activities. Eslam was entrusted with different tasks depending on the week. He also assisted in researching on subjects related to psychology, philosophy, mental health, career development, leadership skills, and integration at the workplace, creating content in the form of articles or posts for publication, and assisting with social media related responsibilities.
Having the opportunity to carry out research in different fields and writing and receiving feedback helped Eslam develop his communication skills. He was even able to eventually make recommendations and notes about articles or publications the company should pursue, as well as recommendations for practices in seminars.
To prepare for the mobility in Vienna, Eslam had to work on his German language skills, using his knowledge from previous university courses and putting them into practice. He also used his previous work experience and skills in journalistic writing and researching.
Eslam: ´´The mobility gave me practical knowledge. During the internship I could practice what I learned during the Masters programme. I saw marketing at work and content created for media platforms. I learned from the team and was able to be a part of it. ´´
Eslam believes conducting the mobility in Vienna enriched his intercultural knowledge, adding to his agility and ability to integrate into a new culture and work environment. Intercultural exchanges such as this mobility are always beneficial for both parties involved and build bridges and knowledge between cultures.
Overall, Eslam deepened his knowledge in the fields of psychology, philosophy, career and personal development. ´´I also improved my team working skills and gained more self-confidence, ´´ he added.
This experience also helped Eslam gain referrals for interviews elsewhere for a permanent job, reflecting the value of traineeships in career development.