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Torsten Mix, IBEI alumni 2013-14

Name and Last Name: Torsten Mix

Nationality: German

Master studied at IBEI: Master’s in International Security

Class: 2013-2014

Current working company, position and City: Independent Consultant at German Development Cooperation (GIZ) in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia).

Linkedin: https://et.linkedin.com/in/torstenmix

1. Why did you choose IBEI Master's programmes?

One of the main reasons for choosing IBEI, besides the nice weather, was the graduate institute’s Latin America connection, which gave me the chance to further enhance my regional knowledge. Furthermore, I was convinced that the international study environment would contribute not only to my professional but also to my personal development. Lastly, I was keen on improving my Spanish skills.

2. How was your experience at IBEI?

The one-year Master’s was very intense. On a personal note, I would actually recommend to do a two-year Master’s in order to be able to really dig into topics. However, the quality of teaching at IBEI was generally very high.

3. Describe your career path since graduating from IBEI

I did different internships at a Spanish Embassy and within the German Development Cooperation (GIZ). Since March 2016, I have been a consultant for GIZ Ethiopia, supporting the GIZ African Union Police Project as well as the GIZ Ethiopia Security Risk Management (current position).

4. What is your professional experience (your current position, your main functions)?

Consultant at GIZ Ethiopia Security Risk Management:

  • Organization of the GIZ Ethiopia Safety and Security Week 2016 for all GIZ Ethiopia staff. 
  • Residence cluster and mapping, using Geographical Information System (GIS) software 
  • Other tasks, upon request. 

5. Is this more or less what you pictured yourself doing after the Master’s program?

Hard to say. I am happy with my current position but flexibility is key, as the job market in the field of international relations is very competitive.

6. What advice would you give to current students who want to follow this career path? Or advice to future IBEI students?

Fight hard or know how to use your Vitamin B.

7. What do you miss most about IBEI?

I miss the intercultural work environment, with so many interesting students and professors from all over the place. I miss studying, being mentally challenged and having time for questioning common knowledge or developing your own ideas

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