Top Nav Breadcrumb

Building a career in international affairs and public service after the DP

We speak with Alma Karabeg about how her IB Diploma Programme (DP) experience helped develop interests which led to a career in public service. She is Deputy President of JCI Norway, an organization that that provides training to young leaders and entrepreneurs.

Why did you originally decide to pursue an IB diploma?

I am very grateful to my mother who advised me to pursue the IB Diploma Programme (DP). I contacted an IB coordinator in my town and the choices of subjects and curriculum appealed to me. I completed the bilingual IB diploma since I chose languages at high level as well as history. High standard and great reputation of IB program convinced me that it is the right choice for me and my future education. It was a great journey!

How did you find your career path after the IB Diploma?

After graduating with my IB diploma I decided to study political science, majoring in international, comparative politics and globalization. After graduating in political science I pursued a master in sociology, and after that a master of public administration at Copenhagen Business School. The international aspect of IB gave me the desire to study abroad and I was also an exchange student in France, the US and Ireland.

The IB diploma also influenced my career path since I worked for a long time in a state corporation running international business and aid projects in Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, Baltic states and the Balkans.

AlmaKjpg

Alma Karabeg received her IB diploma from Trondheim Katedralskole in Norway.

IB equipped me with a special ability to understand different people and adapt quickly. It was a challenging time, but with a steep learning curve. The knowledge I gained turned out to be crucial in my early career.

Joining JCI, an international organization providing developing opportunities to young people that empower them to create positive change, was also influenced by my previous CAS experience. I believe that the IB taught me how important it is to contribute to society and I recognized this attribute in the organization.

As an IB student, what courses were most valuable?

CAS, languages and history were very valuable. I was always interested in history which was my favorite subject. Languages improved my communications skills and triggered my ambition to learn new languages.

Did your Extended Essay, TOK, or CAS experience offer you skills that you still use today?

Yes, definitely. CAS made me understand the importance of making an impact.  I continue with CAS in my everyday life and as a part of JCI running various voluntary projects thus creating an impact in the world. CAS made me aware of different social issues, and made me aware of my responsibility to act.

I also really enjoyed Theory of Knowledge because it helped to shape my perspectives and made me think in a new way.

What advice do you have for current IB students as they think about university studies and a career?

I would advise students to enjoy every moment of their IB experience. It will definitely be useful afterwards, and you will have great memories.

Studying at different universities definitely has an advantage. Your choice of CAS activities might influence future career opportunities and should be chosen accordingly.


Alma Karabeg received her IB diploma from Trondheim Katedralskole in Norway. She received her master of public administration from Copenhagen Business School before continuing her career in the public sector. She maintains a commitment to her local community by serving as Deputy President of JCI Norway.