As future business leaders, gaining hands-on experience in the industry is essential to broaden our understanding and deepen our knowledge. The MBA students of the Class of 2024 at Pforzheim University recently had the chance to do just that, thanks to their excursion day to SAP's headquarters in Walldorf, Germany.
The day started with a warm welcome from Ms. Margit Herrler, who is the Campus Strategy and Engagement Lead DACH. She provided the students with a deeper understanding of SAP's vision and values, and the exciting career prospects available at the company. This introductory session set the tone for the rest of the day and motivated the students to explore more about the company.
The students then had the privilege to engage in fruitful discussions with two senior SAP professionals: Ms. Marie-Christine Schwaab, Head of Transformation Hub - SAP Value Experience Strategy & Operations, and Mr. Nick Johann, Senior Solution Specialist, SAP Experience Hub. They took the students on a tour of SAP's Experience Center and facilities, offering valuable insights into the company's cutting-edge technology and business solutions. The business solutions for Procurement, Supply Chain, HR, Finance etc. were impressive to know about. Additionally, the self- checkout store setup got the students more curious about the extent of technological advancements made by SAP.
The MBA students were particularly impressed by SAP's focus on innovation and digital transformation. They learned about the company's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, which aligned with their own values as future business leaders. Witnessing SAP's efforts to drive positive change in the world inspired the students to think about how they could contribute to society through their future careers.
The day ended with a captivating presentation from Mr. James Dymond, a MBA alumnus of Pforzheim University, who currently works as a Senior Investor Relations Manager at SAP. Mr. Dymond shared his experiences as a student and discussed how his MBA program had prepared him for his current role. He also provided valuable insights into the company culture at SAP and the opportunities available for MBA graduates.
On behalf of the entire MBA cohort, we express our heartfelt gratitude to SAP's management team for hosting our students and providing them with an unforgettable experience. This excursion day provided an excellent opportunity for the MBA students to learn from industry leaders, expand their knowledge, and build valuable connections for their future careers in business.
In conclusion, explicit experiences like these are invaluable for business students, allowing them to see firsthand how companies operate and how they can contribute to the industry. The MBA students at Pforzheim University's Class of  2024 gained invaluable insights from SAP's headquarters, learning about the company's vision, innovative solutions, and commitment to sustainability. This excursion day not only provided the students with a memorable experience, but it also motivated them to pursue their career aspirations with even greater passion and dedication.

Photos: Sourabh Jagtap, MBA
Text: Sourabh Jagtap, Class of 2024