From Clinical Psychology to International Business: Parisa Khalili’s Journey

29.08.2025

Wittenborg Graduate Overcomes Challenges and Starts Promising Career in the Netherlands

After a successful academic and professional trajectory in Iran, Parisa Khalili made a bold decision to change paths and continents. Today, she looks back with pride on the challenges she has overcome and the new opportunities she has embraced, from earning her MBA in International Management at Wittenborg to establishing a career in the Dutch business sector.

Parisa originally studied Clinical Psychology up to master's level in her home country. However, her professional ambitions soon led her in a different direction. “I decided to follow my passion for entrepreneurship and started my own business in women’s fashion wear,” she recalls. Unfortunately, due to systemic obstacles faced by women entrepreneurs in Iran, she was forced to close her stores.

She then pivoted to the sales field, working for several years at a metal structure manufacturing company. “Eventually, a new chapter began when I started the process of emmigrating to the Netherlands,” she says.

Seeking to continue her professional development, Parisa chose to pursue a Master of Business Administration with a specialisation in International Management. “I chose Wittenborg because I believe it is a professional and inspiring environment that brings together international students from all over the world, helping them turn their ambitions into reality.”

Her transition, however, was not without significant difficulties. “I believe all newcomers to the Netherlands face housing challenges in the beginning, and for me it was no different. After arriving, the language barrier was another big hurdle,” she explains. “One of the most difficult moments was when my son joined me only after three months. It was the first time in my life I had been apart from him for so long, which was emotionally very hard.”

Adjusting to a new educational environment also took time. “The approach was completely different from what I was used to, but I managed to adapt during the first months and I’m proud that I was able to complete my studies on time.”

Parisa highlights the importance of balance. “Managing family life was not easy, especially when my son had to start school and learn a completely new language. But we worked through these challenges step by step, and eventually we settled in, just as we had hoped. Now, my son speaks Dutch fluently and is fully integrated into society, which is something I’m very proud of.”

Reflecting on her time at Wittenborg, she says the MBA programme helped her develop crucial skills. “I developed analytical and strategic thinking skills, as well as a deep understanding of global business environments. The international approach of the programme helped me improve my communication, teamwork and leadership abilities. I also learned to adapt quickly to multicultural settings, which has been essential in my current role.”

While Parisa did not complete a formal internship, she credits networking – particularly through LinkedIn – as key to her job search after graduation. “Through active networking, I was able to connect with professionals in the industry and secure my position.”

Currently working in sales, Parisa is responsible for customer relationship management, sales operations and business development. “I work closely with clients to understand their needs and provide tailored solutions,” she says. One of the biggest challenges has been the language. “Dutch is the main language used in the company and market. However, I’m actively learning and improving my Dutch every day.”

Despite the challenges, she finds great satisfaction in her work. “Building strong relationships and receiving positive feedback from customers is truly rewarding. I also enjoy attending industry events and expanding my professional network.”

Looking ahead, Parisa aims to continue developing both personally and professionally. “I plan to continue improving my Dutch language skills and explore new aspects of my career through updated industry knowledge and learning methods. I want to grow both professionally and personally, taking on more responsibility and achieving new milestones.”

She also hopes to leave a lasting impression. “My goal is to make a meaningful impact in my workplace and be remembered as a valuable and inspiring team member.”

To current Wittenborg students, her message is clear: “Learn the local language, because it helps with integration and opens up many opportunities. Create a personal work plan, set realistic deadlines and hold yourself accountable. Don’t miss deadlines, stay disciplined and always believe in smart work. If you stay consistent and focused, your efforts will definitely pay off.”