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With a stunning view of the Swiss Alps, where mountains symbolise the challenges of global leadership, the triple crown-accredited University of St.Gallen prepares students to navigate peaks with confidence and skill. Their map? The Master in Strategy and International Management (SIM).
Since its inception in 2004, the programme has set the benchmark for management education. By 2022, it had ranked #1 in the Financial Times Global Masters in Management Ranking for 12 consecutive years. In 2024, it is once again #1. This success stems from its “from insight to impact” philosophy, which nurtures skills in strategy, leadership, and international management through unique opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The three-semester 90 ECTS credit curriculum begins with a week of seminars and networking. Lessons are delivered in small classrooms for personalised attention, personal reflection, and tailored feedback. Through the SIMagination Challenge, SIMmies engage in global projects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Initiatives like Insight Cambodia, PureDrops, SIMcubator, SIMrise, SIMocean, and XHUMA tackle critical issues like education, clean water access, entrepreneurship, health, and environmental sustainability.
Indeed, students learn to scale the peaks of their careers and make a meaningful impact with the SIM as their guide — these stories are proof of that.
Oya Sarah Houalla from the US
Upon completing her undergraduate studies, Oya Sarah Houalla felt a need for deeper self-understanding and more defined career goals. This led her to the University of St.Gallen. “I was drawn to its reputation as one of the top business schools in Europe, with a vibrant student life and a focus on practical experience,” she shares. “Meanwhile, what attracted me to the SIM programme was its community, values and flexibility.”
As part of her Strategic Management course, Houalla worked on a project that required developing strategic recommendations for Tencent to internationalise and enter new markets. Source: University of St.Gallen
Two words Oya uses to describe her journey so far are “engaging” and “transformative”. Group projects have enhanced her problem-solving skills and her ability to collaborate under pressure. Working with a diverse cohort has broadened her understanding of different cultures and work styles, pushing her to adapt and grow.
This exposure has been instrumental in refining her communication skills and enhancing her adaptability — competencies that came in handy during her internship recruitment process. Oya and her peers conducted mock case interviews, dedicating considerable time to practice and feedback. This preparation helped her secure multiple consulting internship offers in Germany, Dubai, and Singapore.
“The most valuable part of the programme for me has been the SIM community,” says the student, who is gearing up to begin a consulting role in the Middle East once she graduates. “I often reach out to alumni to learn about their experiences in different industries and get advice on my own career. The SIM management team also provides personalised career advice. There’s always a SIMmie ready to help, no matter where you are in the world.”
Anna Sophia is in no way nervous about taking her first professional steps in Zurich, especially since several members of the SIM community are currently based there. Source: University of St.Gallen
Anna Sophia Vendruscolo from Italy
A passionate skier and hiker, Anna Sophia Vendruscolo was instantly drawn to Switzerland as a study abroad destination. The SIM programme was the cherry on top of the cake. “Three key aspects attracted me to the programme: its focus on community and social impact, the high academic standards paired with a practice-oriented approach, and the individualised support,” she says.
So far, a standout experience for Anna Sophia has been her involvement in the SIMagination Challenge. This social impact project allowed her to work with a team on initiatives for Bangladeshi start-ups. Leading the project, which required collaboration with individuals from diverse backgrounds and establishing relationships with corporate partners, was both challenging and rewarding. It offered her practical experience in project management and cross-cultural teamwork, and deepened her skills in communication and problem-solving.
“Studying and working in international contexts, such as during an exchange semester or SIM international internship, equips us to adapt to new situations quickly and build relationships with ease,” says Anna Sophia, who found the university’s career coaching to be equally beneficial.
Through personalised sessions, she aligned her career goals with her personal values, and the SIM programme’s networking events helped her build the professional network required to bring these aspirations to life. Soon, Anna Sophia will be joining Bain & Company as an associate consultant in Zurich. “I am confident that the analytical and interpersonal skills developed in the SIM programme will equip me well for this role,” she says.
“The grandeur of the country is matched by the genuine nature of its people, who strive for excellence in everything they do,” says Adam. Source: University of St.Gallen
Chi Hong Adam Chan from Hong Kong
Chi Hong Adam Chan chose to join the SIM programme because of its reputation for impactful social contributions and its focus on meaningful strategy beyond corporate jargon. True enough, a pivotal moment in his journey was his involvement in the SIMcubator Rwandaproject, which revolved around launching startups.
Collaborating and communicating came naturally, considering the connections Adam made on his very first day at St.Gallen. His cohort of 52 represented 31 nationalities, and everyone seemed determined to be instrumental in each other’s success story.
“Diversity is at the core of our community,” he says. “Each student brings a different viewpoint, which has greatly enriched my learning process. They have helped me become more open-minded and taught me that sustainable impact often stems from passionate and motivated communities.”
Such friendships made all-nighters all the more enjoyable. Adam recalls once preparing for a presentation for Henkel. “Despite the exhaustion, the team spirit was palpable,” he says. Enthusiasm is common for students who balance rigorous academics with downtime. Adam and his friends manage their workload by setting clear priorities and enjoying the best of Switzerland whenever they can. “Its reputation for safety, innovation, and natural beauty has undoubtedly enhanced my educational journey,” he says.
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