Connecting theory to practice

Olivia Gega (Master International Business & Trade Economics) and Giulia Donker (Master Information Studies) completed their Master’s at the UvA and now work in business and entrepreneurship. Both look back positively on their return to the UvA.

‘A very meaningful experience’, said alumnus Olivia Gega. ‘It was interesting to share real entrepreneurial experiences and discuss how innovation can happen even in traditional industries.’

‘Returning to the UvA as an alumnus was a full-circle moment for me’, added Giulia Donker. ‘I loved being able to share practical lessons from my own journey. I hope it gave students some of the clarity I would have valued at that stage.’

Innovating business models: guest lecture by Olivia Gega

• Graduate of the Master’s in International Business & Trade Economics
• Founder of Cancer Connect Albania
• Operations Manager at Hotel Plaza Berat
• TED speaker

Olivia showed students how even traditional industries can innovate. She spoke about emotional value, differentiation, and the future of familiar business models.

‘What I appreciated most was seeing students critically reflect on topics such as emotional value, differentiation, and the future of familiar business models’, Olivia said.

One student explained how the lecture changed the view of traditional sectors: ‘Olivia made me reflect on how traditional industries like newspapers could become relevant again by creating stronger emotional attachment and turning the experience into something people connect with.’

The course coordinator explained the added value of such a guest lecture: ‘Olivia showed students that innovation often stems from real emotional gaps, a lesson that beautifully bridges the gap between theory and practice.’

From idea to viable project: guest lecture by Giulia Donker

• Graduate of the Master’s in Information Studies
• Brand and web designer
• AI business developer
• Founder of Giuuls studio

Giulia focused on how students can move from a promising idea to a realistic and feasible project. She discussed market potential, financial resources, and implementation challenges.

‘I explained how students can turn a promising idea to a project that is truly viable in practice’, Giulia said. ‘The lecture aimed to encourage students to think critically and realistically about how projects can be developed successfully.’

Students appreciated how close her experience felt to their own situation: ‘It was valuable to hear from an UvA alumnus who is still relatively close to this stage herself. Her examples were practical, detailed, and honest, which made the session feel both relatable and inspiring.’

The course coordinator highlighted her message about responsibility and growth: ‘It was a real pleasure to have Giulia, one of our former students in the course. She reminded us that it takes passion and willingness to take responsibility to bridge the gap between university and the real world. As she put it, if you cannot handle €10,000, you will not be ready for €10 million.’