Halime-Merve Ersan
Study programme: Business Studies (BA) (opens in a new window)
Employer: Mimecast Germany GmbH
Position: Field Marketing Executive, Northern Europe
Contact: LinkedIn-profile (opens in a new window)
For what reasons did you decide to study at HNU?
I decided to study at HNU because the university offers a compelling combination of practical relevance, international orientation and modern teaching methods. It was particularly important to me to find an environment that promotes innovation, entrepreneurial thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration. HNU offered me exactly this combination – and thus the ideal foundation for my professional goals.
What tips can you give young people who are looking for the right degree programme?
I recommend being guided less by external expectations and more by your own strengths, interests and long-term goals. A degree programme should not only sound good, but also feel right. Talking to students and professionals, gaining insights into different industries and having the courage to try new things can help immensely.
What experiences during your studies have had a particular impact on you?
I was particularly impressed by the practical projects and close cooperation with companies. This taught me early on how to translate theoretical knowledge into concrete, practical solutions. Equally valuable were the international influences and cooperation in intercultural teams – experiences that continue to benefit me professionally to this day.
Exhausting or child's play: What did your internship semester look like and what tasks did you take on?
I completed my internship semester as part of my semester abroad in London, where I worked at a tech marketing agency. Due to COVID-19, the internship took place entirely remotely. Despite the unusual circumstances, this period was challenging but extremely educational: I worked on marketing and branding projects, supported campaigns and accompanied strategic processes. At the same time, the international working environment allowed me to broaden my horizons, work in global teams and gain valuable insights into international marketing structures – experiences that later proved to be particularly formative for my professional career.
What is your advice to all graduates who are looking for their first job?
Remain open-minded, but clear about your goals. Your first job doesn't have to be perfect, but it should enable you to learn, take on responsibility and develop yourself further. Use your network, talk to experts and remember: practical projects often reveal more about you than a simple certificate.
What was your first job like and how did you become interested in it?
My first job was in business development, which I found out about through LinkedIn. The role gave me important insights into the market, the requirements of the industry and the importance of security-related technologies. Through my work and close collaboration with sales, marketing and regional teams, I was quickly able to take on responsibility – which ultimately led to my promotion to field marketing.
Please describe your everyday working life. Which projects do you work on and which tasks do you particularly appreciate?
I currently work as a field marketing specialist in the cybersecurity industry. Initially, I was responsible for the DACH region, but I have since taken on the BeNeLux and Nordics regions, which I am strategically building and developing. My daily work involves planning and implementing regional marketing strategies, running integrated campaigns and working closely with sales teams, international departments and external partners. I particularly appreciate the combination of strategic planning, creative storytelling and the opportunity to contribute directly to regional growth and market success.
How would you complete the following sentence beginning?
HNU... "not only imparted knowledge to me, but above all laid the foundation for me to take on responsibility, think internationally and confidently shape my own career path."
