From Schiller to Edelman: How Cross-Cultural Learning Shaped Joel Tim’s Career Journey

Meet Joel Tim, a Schiller International University graduate whose journey reflects the power of international education, diverse perspectives, and student-driven learning. Joel studied International Economics at the Heidelberg campus between 2014 and 2018, an experience he credits for shaping his global outlook and helping him discover his career direction. Today, he lives in Saarbrücken and works as a Key-Account Assistant at Edelman Deutschland GmbH, the German subsidiary of Edelman B.V. in Homburg. In this Alumni Spotlight, Joel shares how Schiller’s multicultural environment, collaborative mindset, and problem-solving approach continue to guide him in both his professional and personal life.

Why did you choose Schiller?

I found the study program to be relevant and aligned with career advice I had received at the time. Also, having one course per month and, generally, how the semesters are structured was very convenient.

Can you share some of your fondest memories from your time at Schiller International University?

Student nights were always a highlight. One got to see people in a more casual setting and really got to know them better.

How would you describe the spirit and culture of Schiller during your years on campus?

There were ample initiatives, curricular and extracurricular, to keep me engaged as a student. Also, effort was put into fostering a sense of community amongst students with events etc.

Are there any qualities of the Schiller education that you believe continue to benefit students today?

Schiller is very diverse, with students and professors from all walks of life. The environment is conducive towards sharing and learning from others. I still have this “open mindset” today when I approach new scenarios.

How has your education at Schiller played a role in your life since graduation?

A part of studying is also learning about oneself. I think Schiller was a good environment for figuring out which subjects piqued my interest the most. This ultimately had an influence on the direction of my future studies and career choices.

What do you consider to be the most valuable aspect of your Schiller experience?

Cross-cultural communication. In both professional and nonprofessional scenarios, I have found what I picked up at Schiller to be quite handy. 

At your current position at Edelman-BV, which skills learned or honed at Schiller keep being of use to you?

How I approach problems at work is influenced by the methodology that I learned from different professors at Schiller.

If you could go back to your college student years, is there anything you would do differently? 

I would go and study at one or more of the other campuses; that is an aspect of Schiller that I didn’t take advantage of.

What advice would you give to current students to help them make the most of their Schiller experience?

It is important to be proactive; that is how you make the most out of Schiller. Some of the best initiatives are student led, so express your ideas, maybe other students think similarly and, together, you can create value for the whole student community.