Welcome back to the Beyond BISP series, where we reconnect with alumni and celebrate their journeys after school. This week, we hear from Maria, who graduated from BISP in 2017 and is now based in the UAE.

Maria has built a successful career in sales, joining international event management company BGS Group four years ago. Since then, she has progressed from Key Account Manager to Sales Director for the Oil & Gas Automation & Digitalisation Congress, leading a team of 40 people.

Here’s Maria’s update in her own words:

Hi!
This is Maria. I graduated from BISP way back in 2017, but I keep following the school everywhere – school memories are the ones I’m most fond of.

Life after education may seem hard and can be full of uncertainties. But as odd as it may sound, all the challenges during the IB years actually prepare you very well for the working world ahead!

I have embarked on a journey in the sales career and, four years ago, joined the company BGS Group based in the UAE. BGS Group is an event management company that organises international events in the Oil & Gas and Pharmaceutical sectors.

I started off as a Key Account Manager and, within four years, grew to become the Sales Director for the Oil & Gas Automation & Digitalisation Congress! I now lead a whole team of sales – that is 40 people! Thanks to all the debate classes we had way back during the school days, it now helps manage and understand different people day to day.

I can also firmly say that BISP gave me the opportunity to study with the international community, which now helps me so much with the negotiations with clients all over the world. When you understand the culture, you acknowledge how to approach the conversation correctly and reach your goal.

So, if you’re worried that life after school is uncertain and unpredictable – it is, but with the right foundation, it is a whole world of opportunities and dreams that become reality.

All the best!

Are you a BISP alum with a story to share? We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re studying, working, travelling, or exploring a new path, get in touch and be part of the Beyond BISP Series. Email us at [email protected] with your update and pictures, we can’t wait to celebrate your journey.