Elena Zehnder, M. Sc.

Personal data

Name: Elena Zehnder

Completed degree programme: Global Foresight and Technology Management, M. Sc.

Alumni cohort: 2024

Current position: PhD Researcher Strategic Foresight

Company: Robert Bosch GmbH (Stuttgart)

Why did you decide to study GFTM?

For my master's program, I sought a curriculum that not only covered traditional management subjects but also aspects of technology management. I wanted to enroll in a master's program that would broaden my knowledge, enhance my skill set, and provide me with a foundation that would equip me for the demands of the future job market. The GFTM study program met these objectives, which is why I chose to pursue it.

What was the most important lesson you learned during your studies?

The GFTM Master provides so many opportunities to learn, it is difficult to point out one single thing. In addition to preparing students for a future-oriented job market, the project-based study program provides hands-on experience working in interdisciplinary, cross-cultural teams. These projects allowed us to apply our theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing our skillset and readiness for the job market.

When you look back to your studies: What do you still benefit from most today?

In my daily work as a PhD student, I find the knowledge I gained during my GFTM master's program to be invaluable. I consistently feel the impact of that education on my current professional journey. On a personal level, the connections I made during the master's program are amazing, and I am grateful to have met some of my closest friends through this program.

Since graduating, what phases of your profession have you completed?

After graduating in June 2024, I have started my PhD journey in July 2024 with an expected duration until June 2027.

How would you describe your typical workday?

For my PhD, there is no such thing as a typical workday. I am very grateful to be highly flexible in how to schedule my workday, so each day looks differently. Currently, my responsibilities include extensive reading, writing, and process planning as I develop a research plan and collect initial data. The only fixed constant is the high amount of coffee which is definitely necessary to keep my mind running each day.

What do you particularly like about your job?

The most rewarding part of pursuing a PhD is that a significant portion of my job involves reading articles and papers. Reading is one of my greatest hobbies, and I find it extremely fulfilling to integrate this passion into my professional responsibilities. Additionally, strategic foresight is still an emerging research discipline, offering numerous avenues for contributing to the field, which I find particularly inspiring.

How has completing your studies contributed to the realization of your career goals?

Most of my studies, I was 100 % sure that after my master’s, I would find a regular corporate job and start my working career. However, the GFTM Masters sparked my passion for the topic of foresight and the moment I found the job description for a PhD in foresight, all my original plans were forgotten. I never thought about doing a PhD, but this opportunity just felt like the perfect fit!

What criteria did you use to decide on a particular career path/step?

I had never planned to pursue a PhD; the decision to do so was rather spontaneous. I made the decision while working on my master's thesis, letting my instincts guide me at the time. However, my decision was influenced by my enjoyment of research in strategic foresight, which I discovered during the development of my thesis.

What is your favourite future, professional or personal?

For the last ten years, my primary dream has been to pursue a career in Formula One. However, my interest in research on strategic foresight is growing daily. As Professor Schwarz of the GFTM Masters said, "You cannot predict the future, you can only anticipate it." In that sense, I am currently enjoying my Ph.D. and looking forward to what the future may hold.