Amalie

Why did I choose my programme (and CBS)?
I chose the BIO programme because it provides me the opportunity to explore the field of life science innovation and its potential for future career opportunities. What drew me to CBS was the opportunity for a second-year internship at a biotechnology company, offering hands-on experience. This programme allows me to further build on my academical career within biology while at the same time equipping me with new skills within business and entrepreneurship, which i believe will give me a competitive edge as I step into my career.

What do I like the best?
I like that I have the opportunity to tailor and optimize my degree according to my strengths and interests, due to the wide choice of elective courses in the first year. The programme has a very diverse curriculum, although heavily oriented around biology in the first year. In the second year the programme transitions into to more business-oriented courses, which I am also very excited about. Overall, the flexibility and quality of the curriculum makes this programme an ideal fit for my academic and career aspirations.

How do I experience the difference in academic level between my bachelor and master programme?
Moving from my bachelor's to the master's programme meant taking more ownership of my learning. I have definitely noticed that more self-study is required, but with more independence comes a greater opportunity for personal growth and development. However, it did feel like a natural transition coming here from my undergrad, and there is an abundance of resources to help you along the way, should you ever feel overwhelmed.

What are the biggest challenges in my study programme?
I think the biggest challenge lies in the short 8-week duration per course. This means that the overall atmosphere is quite high-intensity, which requires a lot of focus and effective time management in order to keep up with the course. I have found that establishing a good routine has become crucial to balance academic life with my life outside of university. Once you get adjusted to the tempo, you realize that it is indeed a very effective way of learning, more so than having four final exams at the end of a semester.

What would I have liked to have known before starting my programme?
Before joining the programme, I wish I had known more about the practical experiences offered. Exploring more internships opportunities or industry connections could have helped shape my course decisions. Also, exploring student job opportunities beforehand would have been beneficial, considering the abundance of possibilities available. Luckily, job offers are posted continuously, so the chance definitely isn't lost despite not landing a job early in the semester.

What do I want to do after finishing my programme?
I am still exploring my options, but I am drawn to innovation roles in the biotech industry - product development within the food industry and eco-innovation initiatives are some of the areas I find appealing. Mostly I am excited about the vast range of possibilities, which I have come to discover by connecting with various companies through opportunities made possible by the BIO programme. This exposure has offered insights into diverse industries and the opportunities within.

If I could give myself a piece of advice, before starting it would be…
Trust the process and enjoy being a student while you can. Engage with your peers and professors and stay curious. Stay open to new experiences, ask for help when needed, and remember that it's okay not to have all the answers from the start. Prepare for the lectures as best as you can, it will make them so much more durable to sit through. This is your chance to grow and evolve—make the most of every opportunity.