Julia Barbey - Studying sustainability online

Passion for Sustainability

Julia's journey towards sustainability traces back to her upbringing amidst the serene landscapes of the Swiss mountains and Mauritius. Immersed in nature since childhood, she recognized the intrinsic value of preserving the environment. Her passion for sustainability ignited during her teenage years, fueled by documentaries, books, and a deep-rooted connection to nature.

Nurturing Sustainability at EHL

Even before joining EHL, Julia envisioned integrating sustainability into her career. At EHL, she found a conducive environment to nurture this interest. Engaging in initiatives like the Sustainability Committee and Sustainability Week, Julia collaborated with mentors and peers to champion sustainability within the hospitality industry.

Professional Catalyst

Julia's internship with the Richemont Group, particularly with IWC Watches in Schaffhausen, solidified her commitment to sustainability. Experiencing sustainability practices beyond hospitality, she gained insights into its diverse applications across industries, fueling her ambition to drive positive change.

Choosing an Online Master's

Opting for an online master's allowed Julia to balance work and studies seamlessly. She pursued a Master of Business Administration with a specialization in sustainability, aligning with her career aspirations. Julia highlights the flexibility of online learning, enabling her to apply classroom knowledge directly to her role as Sustainability Manager at Villars Alpine Resorts.

Juggling Work and Studies

Navigating the demands of a full-time job alongside rigorous coursework, Julia emphasizes the commitment required for online learning. Balancing evening classes, weekend assignments, and work responsibilities necessitated meticulous time management. Despite challenges, Julia's determination propelled her forward, with her employer, Nestlé, supporting her academic pursuits.

Global Perspectives

An enriching aspect of online learning is the diversity it fosters. Julia's cohort comprises professionals from diverse backgrounds worldwide, offering unique perspectives and fostering invaluable networking opportunities. Collaborative projects and field trips further enhance cross-cultural interactions, reinforcing the global relevance of sustainability.

Reflecting on the Journey

As Julia nears the culmination of her master's journey, she reflects on its multifaceted impact. From expanding her knowledge base to directly applying learnings in her professional endeavors, the experience has been both rewarding and transformative. Julia's biggest wish for her career resonates with her desire to make a tangible difference and leave a lasting impact.

Julia's journey epitomizes the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. From her formative years amidst nature to her current role as a sustainability advocate, Julia's story inspires us to embrace sustainability as not just a career choice but a way of life. As we conclude this episode, Julia's narrative serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for aspiring changemakers worldwide.

Check out the full list of student profiles and their diverse career paths.