Elisabeta Halili, from Albania, Class of 2018, major in International Business Administration. Elisabeta also got her Master’s degree in International Management at LCC in 2022. 

Life After LCC is a monthly interview and story series featuring alumni of LCC International University. The series is part of 35 Years – 35 Stories, celebrating the university’s 35th anniversary. 

1. Where are you now? Tell us about your current role, studies, or projects. 

I am currently based in Hamburg, Germany, where I work for a shipping company. In my role, I coordinate the supply of spare parts and technical services for vessels, ensuring that the required equipment and services are delivered efficiently in any part of the world.  

2. Which experiences at LCC helped prepare you for where you are today? 

LCC has absolutely played a significant role in preparing me for where I am today. Firstly, the international community at LCC gave me the opportunity to meet and study with students from many different cultural and academic backgrounds, which is very helpful in my job today, where my daily work involves communication with international colleagues, clients, and suppliers. In addition to the international community, the academic courses were also very helpful, as they encouraged discipline and critical thinking. Furthermore, during my time at LCC, I was involved in different leadership positions on campus, which strengthened my sense of responsibility, teamwork, and organizational skills. 

3. When did you realize what you wanted to pursue professionally, and how did LCC influence that decision? 

Actually, my first introduction to the maritime industry came through LCC. I got my first internship at a shipping company in Klaipėda after a presentation they held at LCC. This internship gave me my first practical insight into the maritime sector and allowed me to better understand how the industry operates. It ultimately influenced my decision to pursue a career in this field.  

4. How did LCC help you grow as a leader? Tell us about your leadership experience. 

LCC played an important role in helping me grow as a leader, both through academic learning and practical experience. During my studies, I held several leadership roles, including serving as an Intercultural Student Leader and as a Resident Assistant. These positions gave me the opportunity to support students from diverse backgrounds and help organize different events and activities. In addition, LCC offered leadership trainings and workshops that focused on communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Through these experiences, I learned how to take initiative, manage responsibilities, and work effectively with people from different cultures and perspectives. 

5. How did LCC help you build relationships and networks that still matter to you today? 

LCC has really helped me build relationships and connections that are still important to me. I had the opportunity to build friendships with students from different countries, some of whom I am still in touch with today. I also met many amazing professors who helped me not only during my time at LCC but also afterward, and I am very grateful to them. 

6. What are your favorite memories from your time at LCC? 

I really loved my time at LCC. Being part of such an international community made everyday experiences unique and enriching. Beyond academics, the friendships I built, the different events on campus, and the experience of living and studying in an international environment are memories that I will always value. In fact, I liked LCC so much that I not only completed my Bachelor’s degree, but I also returned to complete my Master’s degree. Once you are part of LCC, it stays with you for a lifetime. 

7. What advice would you give to current and future LCC students? 

My advice would be: enjoy your time at LCC as much as possible — it is a unique experience. Be open to new experiences and opportunities, and get involved in campus life. Do not stress too much about the future — everything will turn out great.  
Do your best and let God do the rest.