The bachelor’s student talks about his love for finance and personal growth at WHU
My name is Jonas Abdulaziz. I am 20 years old and in the second year of my bachelor’s studies at WHU. I am from Wuppertal, near Düsseldorf, famous for its “Schwebebahn” (an elevated 13km railway).
The Bachelor in International Business Administration is my first university degree, but I’ve been interested in finance since the 9th grade. My two best friends invested a lot of time into researching the topic while we were at school, which inspired me and drove me to find out more for myself. So, by the time I finished school, I was sure I wanted to learn more about finance and perhaps pursue it as a career.
Why did you choose WHU?
Through a lot of personal research and networking, I recognized that WHU is one of, if not the best, university to join if you wish to follow a business or finance-related career. I was delighted to be eligible for the “BAföG” scholarship program, which relieves German students from tuition fees when their parents do not have the means to pay. This scholarship allowed me to study somewhere reputable like WHU and showed me that it cares significantly about talent and inclusivity, no matter your economic background.
What is your career goal after graduation?
After my studies, I plan to follow a career path in investment banking, especially M&A (Mergers & Acquisitions). However, this is not set in stone. I would like to find an internship in a consulting environment to explore different career paths and options.
What is something you have learned about yourself at WHU?
I discovered that I have no interest in law! Especially during an apprenticeship as a real estate agent where law was part of the job, I found that it doesn’t inspire me as a topic. However, at WHU, we have a great professor who taught us that there are many facets to law and that it is more like a puzzle. It can be very complex at times!
I also learned a lot of technical aspects during my internships at WHU, as well as soft skills. Such as communication at work with colleagues and how to manage tasks throughout the day or week.
Tell us more about your hobbies outside of WHU.
I make music daily, and I am currently building a music studio. Otherwise, I love to read books and comics and have a great passion for gaming – but only when I have the time! I also love to do sports such as Thai boxing and roller skating when the weather is right.
Speak to other WHU bachelor students to find out why WHU is the right choice for you!