Success story

Edeltraut Schwartz

Edeltraut studied B.A. Business Administration with a special focus on Human Resources, Tourism, e-Commerce, HR Admin Programs & Operations.

The end of my vocational training as a travel management assistant was also a starting signal for me - because I quickly realised that I still wanted to study. So, while working at a DER travel agency, I completed my business administrator diploma and qualified for university studies.

Studying at IU International University was ideal for me because I really wanted to stay active in my career. The program at IU gave me the flexibility I needed for this. During my studies, this became even more important, as I was promoted to the office manager of my travel agency and had to accommodate a responsible job – often a six-day work week – plus my studies, partner, family and friends.

Proper motivation is already half the battle

In addition to my regular jogging routine, my own wanderlust was a great motivator during stressful phases. When I was planning my next vacation, I always had it in mind and said to myself: "Now you have to step on the gas pedal – the next vacation is coming up soon!

But I also owe my academic success to the network I created at IU. I was lucky enough to meet seven great fellow students soon after starting my studies. We motivated and supported each other – former "study colleagues" now have become really good friends today.

From the tourism industry to Microsoft

At the end of my studies in November 2017, I felt ready for a new challenge – and found it at MSC Cruises, where I worked as a Sales Manager looking after the company's sales partners in southwest Germany.

I came across my current position at Microsoft while visiting a career fair in 2018. I was immediately enthusiastic about the company and decided to apply. With success: after three selection rounds, I had the job.

My motto: Never stand still!

At Microsoft, I am now mainly responsible for the onboarding of new employees in Germany – which means I have the honour of inspiring the new "Microsofties" with our great corporate values and culture from the very first day.

Thanks to my business administration degree, I was able to switch successfully from the tourism industry to the HR sector: With the extensive theoretical knowledge that I have gained from my studies, I can easily tackle challenges in a wide variety of areas and think outside the box. This allows me to stay committed to my personal goal: to pass on my knowledge to others and never stand still.