The factors that matter

It was VU Amsterdam’s attention to ethics that grabbed Sophie’s attention. ‘It was important to me that the university focused on the responsible use of technology in a business environment,’ Sophie continues. ‘We learn not only about what we can do with tech, but what we must do, and what we should never do. It’s the right balance of finding the business value in tech, connecting the company’s vision to the technological possibilities, and maintaining a strong ethical position.’

Achieving the goals

Sophie worked hard to achieve her ambitions. ‘I wanted to work at one of the big four accounting firms. Given the specific focus of the programme, our small class was frequently offered jobs before we even completed the Master’s,’ she says. ‘I was excited to be offered a job at PWC, where I worked for eight years with pleasure.’

Next, Sophie took on a role at ABN AMRO as a line manager in the area of IT security. ‘We worked on a structure to increase and maintain the bank’s security – a crucial element to keep our business, employees and clients safe,’ she explains. ‘Today, I’m the Programme Manager of Security and Infrastructure Global Mandate, and am working on integrating different ABN AMRO entities into a secure IT landscape.’ Sophie also works on her third Master’s degree – in Technology Law. ‘Of course, I’m studying at VU Amsterdam again.’

Finding the right fit

According to Sophie, the university is an inclusive environment for students. ‘When I was getting my Master’s, I, together with two other students, wrote a paper about the effect of human capital on tech acceptance. One of my professors thought the idea was interesting. He encouraged me to work with him to further explore the concept, and we ended up publishing a paper together. Before I’d even gotten my Master’s, I had travelled to Slovenia to present the paper at a conference. Your growth and development are encouraged at every level,’ she says.

Advice from the source

When asked what kind of advice Sophie would give to prospective students, she doesn’t hesitate: ‘Enjoy being a student. Select a programme that will energise and excite you. Your hard work and enthusiasm will be the keys to a successful career.

‘Find like-minded students with whom you can grow and develop,’ she continues. ‘Connect with teachers and PhD students who can guide you. You’ll interact with major companies that will soon be offering you work.’

Last but not least, she says that for this particular programme, you need an interest in technology. ‘You don’t need to be a programmer, but you do need to have an interest in how technology impacts business. And even if you want to work in logistics or HR, this is an excellent all-round degree that will benefit you. Tech impacts every aspect of the business world.’