Stepping out of my comfort zone and into a whole new world of experiences, my internship at KASS has been nothing short of transformative. As an International Business student, I wanted to challenge myself in a foreign work environment, and Malaysia turned out to be the perfect place. From learning about corporate communication to gaining hands-on marketing experience, this journey has been both eye-opening and unforgettable. 

We asked Bowy to share his thoughts on the experience so far, and here’s what he had to say… 

What degree are you pursuing, and why did you choose it? 

I’m Bowy Stroet, a 20-year-old third-year student at HAN University of Applied Sciences. I am currently pursuing a degree in International Business, which provides a broad perspective on business with a particular focus on navigating the corporate world in a culturally appropriate manner. At KASS, I completed an internship with the marketing team for over four months. 

Three years ago, I chose this degree because I knew I wanted to enter the field of business management in a foreign country. However, at such a young age, I wasn’t entirely sure which specific path I wanted to take. This program ultimately led me to Malaysia and KASS—an experience I will never forget! 

What motivated you to choose KASS for your internship? 

As part of my third-year studies, I was required to complete an internship, preferably abroad, to gain work experience. Back home, I have always been known for being quite direct—sometimes to the extent that it could be perceived as rude in a professional setting. That’s why I chose to challenge myself in Malaysia, where I could get a crash course in corporate communication. 

After an extensive search for an internship far from home and receiving many offers, I came across KASS. The firm immediately caught my attention. Although IP law isn’t the industry I aspire to work in and isn’t something I was familiar with, I found the marketer’s perspective fascinating. It was exciting to be exposed to various businesses and learn how to attract clients while proving you’re the right service provider for them. 

After the interviews, KASS felt like the perfect fit—and the rest is history! 

How has your experience with KASS been so far? What specific skills or experiences do you hope to gain? 

It has been truly incredible. I’ve spoken to many friends who are also doing internships, and the level of responsibility, guidance, and opportunities I’ve received at KASS is remarkable. They have truly set a high standard for my next internship! Jokes aside, having the chance to attend events, work on projects that make a real impact on the firm, and see tangible results has been an unforgettable experience. On top of that, everyone at KASS is incredibly friendly and fun! 

In terms of marketing, observing management, and experiencing corporate life, I’ve learned so much—but nobody’s perfect, and I aim to continue learning every day. My next goal is to improve my intercultural readiness and become more adept at understanding social cues from different cultures. As for skills, I’ve worked on so many projects that it’s hard to keep track! 

What are your passions or interests in life? 

One of my biggest professional interests is analyzing and critically evaluating organizational processes—how they function and, more importantly, how they can be made more efficient. I love seeing the rewards of my work, whether it’s reducing someone’s workload or making their professional life just a little easier! 

What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of your academic and professional life? 

Outside of academics and work, my biggest hobby is sports. I used to be passionate about water polo and swimming, but I stopped a few years ago. Nowadays, I go to the gym like many others, but I also practice Jiu-Jitsu back home, which I really enjoy! 

Beyond sports, I love spending time with friends, and I must say that during my time in Malaysia, I missed them the most! 

Do you have a favorite musician or band? 

My all-time favorite band has to be Pink Floyd. Their music is timeless, and they always seem to get it just right. That said, I enjoy all kinds of genres—from classical to rap—so my saved playlist is quite diverse! 

Have you enjoyed any Netflix shows or movies recently? 

Over the past few years, I haven’t watched much Netflix or many movies, but I’ve developed a strong interest in anime. My favorite show of all time has to be One Piece! I love its storytelling, and I’ve been following it weekly for quite a while now.