German Julian chose to study in the neighboring country

Julian Höltje is from near Hanover and loves to travel. When he finished high school and his training as a vehicle mechatronics technician, he managed to visit 11 countries shortly before the corona pandemic forced travelers to return to their home countries. Along the way, he worked on an Australian cattle farm, and he helped produce drinking fountains for thirsty pedestrians in Sydney.

Back home in Germany, he began studying International Marketing at Dr. Buhmann Schule & Akademie in Hanover. But when he got the opportunity to travel again, he seized it. Julian chose to pursue a top-up bachelor’s degree in International Business at the IBA International Business Academy Kolding. This one-year programme is offered by the IBA in collaboration with Coventry University.

Of course, Julian had the opportunity to continue his studies in several countries, but he chose the IBA for two reasons, he says:

– Here I could obtain an English degree recognized by companies worldwide. At the same time, I got to experience studying in Denmark. It’s very informal here, and I really enjoyed having such close contact with my teachers daily.

The study programme also included several company visits, which Julian greatly appreciated. For instance, the class took a trip to Southern Jutland, where they gained a good impression of the two largest companies on Als – Danfoss and Linak.

– The teaching met my expectations. We got the experiences here at the IBA that we were promised in advance, so I am really happy about that.

Julian also found that Danes can be a bit reserved. It takes a bit of effort to establish contact. But once the conversation starts flowing, it’s quite the opposite – the Danes are very open and eager to talk.

This is he’s new job

Coming from studying in Hanover before, Kolding is a quiet city, even though it’s among the largest in Denmark. Initially, Julian was surprised by the calm city life, but he ended up appreciating it.

– I’m used to living in a more hectic city. But for sure I will return to Denmark for short stays to enjoy the tranquility here.

But right now, it’s all about his career in Germany. Julian has landed a job with Clarios, which produces and sells the VARTA battery brand along with other brands found in many vehicles. Julian will work in a new full-time job with product data management in the company’s marketing department. For the travel-loving German, this means he is now back in Hanover.

– It’s going to be exciting. The company is a market leader in its field with low-voltage batteries, and you can actually find its batteries in every third vehicle worldwide, Julian says.