“My goal is to start my own international trade business connecting South Asia and Europe.”
Tasneem, a student from Bangladesh taking the Advanced Vocational Training Course in International Trade taught 100% in English at the Vocational Training Centre at Fundació UAB, shares his experience of studying in Barcelona and explains how the course is helping him prepare to launch his own company.
20/03/2026
What motivated you to come from Bangladesh to study first at our language school and later the Vocational Training Course in International Trade?
I have always wanted to work in the business sector. Before coming to Spain, I did some research about the main products exported from my country, Bangladesh. I discovered that one of our strongest export industries is ready-made garments (RMG). Bangladesh has an important commercial relationship with Spain. Many garments produced in Bangladesh are exported to Spain, and from here they are distributed to the rest of Europe. I realised that if I wanted to start a business in international trade, I needed to understand how import and export operations work. That is why I started looking for opportunities to study in Spain. When I first arrived, I did not speak any Spanish, so I decided to begin by studying the language. At the same time, I searched for specialised programmes that could give me the knowledge and skills necessary to start my own business. One day I saw an advertisement for UAB and Fundació UAB on Instagram, and I immediately felt it was the right place for me.
What has your experience been like so far at the Vocational Training Centre at Fundació UAB?
I really like it. The campus environment is very welcoming, and the lecturers are highly qualified. Many of them hold PhDs and have extensive professional experience. Their classes are very interesting because they share real insight from the sector. I learn a lot from their knowledge and practical experience. In addition, everyone is very friendly, which makes it easy to connect with classmates and feel part of the community.
Which subjects or skills do you think will be most useful for your future career?
One of the most valuable subjects for me has been International Trade. In this course, I learned how to prepare the documentation required for export and import operations. This is a very important skill because international trade involves many procedures and regulations. Understanding how to manage documentation correctly will be extremely useful for my professional future.
Students also have the opportunity to participate in professional visits, such as the training programme at Barcelona Port. What was that experience like?
The training programme at Barcelona Port was an amazing experience. It allowed us to see firsthand how one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean operates. During the visit, we met professionals responsible for the ADIF and Renfe terminal, and we were also able to observe the docking terminal for roll-on/roll-off cargo. It was a very insightful experience. I also really enjoyed the training sessions at Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, where we had the opportunity to listen to talks from CEOs working in the port sector. Their accounts were very inspiring. Additionally, students have the opportunity to participate in an international training experience in Italy, where they spend one week learning directly in a port. It is a fantastic opportunity to gain practical insight into the industry.
How has studying abroad changed your perspective on international business?
Studying abroad has really broadened my perspective. Moving to Barcelona allowed me to see how international business operates in Europe. Coming from South Asia, I have developed different skills and perspectives. Living and studying here has helped me realise the importance of combining those skills with new knowledge and experiences to understand how international trade works in a global context.
What are your professional goals after completing the programme?
My main goal is to start my own company here in Spain. I have already developed a business plan, and I am currently in the process of registering the company. I have also contacted several agencies to help with the incorporation process and have begun discussions with a bank to apply for financing. My business will focus on export and import operations. I want to help companies based in Barcelona manage trade with South Asia, particularly in sectors such as leather products, ready-made garments (RMG) and raw steel materials.
Languages are also an important part of the course, including Chinese and English. How important do you think this is?
It is definitely a game-changer. One of the reasons I chose this programme is that it offers the opportunity to learn languages such as Chinese and French in addition to English. For me, Chinese is especially important. In the past, my father worked with Chinese companies, so I have already seen how they operate in business. When you can speak at least some Chinese, it helps build stronger relationships with Chinese partners and creates trust in business negotiations.
What would you say to other international students who are considering studying International Trade at Fundació UAB?
If you are interested in working in international trade, logistics, ports or customs, this is definitely the right place to study. The programme offers both theoretical knowledge and practical experience that help you understand how the industry works. It is a great opportunity for students who want to build an international career.
