Yu-Chi Chen is in her second semester studying the Master in Management with a focus on Sustainable Business. In summer 2023, she participated in the ENGAGE.EU Expedition Week at NHH Bergen on the topic of sustainability. In the interview, she talks about how she rose above herself, what valuable knowledge she gained for her studies, and why it is worth participating.
Why did you decide to participate in the ENGAGE.EU expedition at NHH Bergen?
I took part in the ENGAGE.EU expedition at NHH Bergen because of my deep-rooted interest in sustainability. This passion for sustainable businesses also led me to leave Taiwan and study at the University of Mannheim. When I stumbled upon this event, I recognized it as the perfect opportunity to further my knowledge and enrich my expertise.
What did you learn and what insights did you take away from the expedition?
During the ENGAGE.EU expedition, I had the privilege of acquiring knowledge about various topics, including the intricacies of public transportation systems in Bergen, the application of design thinking methods, and the implementation of sustainable business models. Among the memorable experiences was our visit to the city hall of Vestland, where I was introduced to Norway's impressive sustainable development plan. Witnessing the dedication and effort the country invests in sustainable transformation left a profound impression on me.
How was it for you to meet and work with students from so many different countries?
Throughout the expedition week, I had the pleasure of meeting diverse participants from various countries and cultural backgrounds. We bonded by coming together, preparing meals collectively, and enjoying music from different parts of the world. These moments left a lasting impression and created cherished memories.
What did you enjoy most about the ten days?
Participating in street interviews for the design thinking process was an enjoyable and enriching experience. On the second day of the expedition, we engaged with local citizens, seeking their opinions on public transportation and potential improvements. At first, I felt a bit hesitant, as I had no prior experience in conducting interviews of this nature. However, as time went on, I found it truly fascinating to listen to the perspectives and insights shared by the residents about the city they called home. This experience not only allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of Bergen but also taught me valuable lessons on how to identify and address people's needs effectively.
Gradually, my apprehension transformed into confidence, and I realized that through active listening and empathy, I could connect with individuals and learn so much from them. This newfound skill of conducting street interviews has proven to be an invaluable asset, as it equips me with the ability to better comprehend people's perspectives and needs, which I believe will be crucial in my pursuit of sustainable business solutions.
What does sustainability mean to you personally?
In my opinion, sustainability means taking into account the impact on society and the environment when making decisions, not just the economic impact. By integrating social and environmental considerations into our decision-making processes, we can work towards creating a more balanced and equitable world for both present and future generations.
How does the content of the expedition help you in your studies?
I strongly believe that the design thinking method employed during the expedition will prove immensely beneficial in my studies. The hands-on experience it provided allowed us to genuinely implement the design thinking process, making it a valuable and practical learning opportunity.
Would you recommend the event to other students?
I wholeheartedly recommend this event to others. It offers a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. The experience feels like a condensed exchange semester, providing a wealth of learning and networking in just two weeks.
The event encourages open dialogue, enabling you to gain unique insights and share your own knowledge and expertise. Overall, the event is an exceptional way to enrich your education, make meaningful connections, and develop essential skills for your academic and professional future. If you have the chance to participate, seize it without hesitation; it will undoubtedly be a transformative experience.