Career in Chicago: From the lecture room in Kufstein to the Windy City

In the middle of his master's program, Toni Pötzl decided to take a career opportunity in the United States. Since the summer of 2024, he has been taking a break from his digital marketing degree program at the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol to work as an intern at the German American Chamber of Commerce (AHK) in Chicago. There, he contributes his knowledge to digital marketing campaigns, content creation, and intercultural communication and, between international meetings and impressive skyline, experiences the flair of a major American city.

Chicago offers him a unique blend of business and culture. He describes the city as big, loud and sometimes overwhelming – but also as incredibly diverse and full of opportunities. In an interview with Prof. Dr. Bert Neumeister, Toni Pötzl shares his impressions so far.

WHAT ACTIVITIES MAKE UP YOUR INTERNSHIP ROUTINE?

Toni Pötzl: The work revolves around marketing strategies for German companies that dare to cross the Atlantic. Cultural adaptation is particularly exciting: While in Germany the focus is often on technical details, in the US storytelling, emotions and a clear communication of benefits are what count. Whether it's optimizing a website for the American market or developing a LinkedIn strategy – if you want to be successful here, you have to adapt. Meetings, concepts and a lot of exchange with companies from a wide range of industries make the day interesting.

WHAT KIND OF IMPRESSIONS DO YOU GET ON A NORMAL WORKING DAY?

Pötzl: The day begins with a real highlight: a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan. The office of the German American Chamber of Commerce is located in the heart of downtown Chicago and offers one of the most spectacular views in the city – perfect for starting the day with a coffee. Outside, the wind whistles around the skyscrapers, and by the time you leave the building, it is clear why Chicago is nicknamed the Windy City.

After work, Chicago shows its best side. The city is a cultural center – whether it's blues and jazz clubs, world-famous museums or rooftop bars with skyline views. In summer, people flock to Lake Michigan, whether to go jogging on the Lakefront Trail or to watch the sunset on the beach. And then there are the legendary festivals: on St. Patrick's Day, the Chicago River is dyed green and the city turns into one big party. Experiencing the US election live was also an experience – here, politics is an event that moves the whole city.

WHAT ARE THE MUST-SEE PLACES IN CHICAGO?

Pötzl: For those who want to experience a piece of tradition in the run-up to Christmas, the Christkindelmarket Chicago is well worth a visit. With several million visitors, it is one of the largest Christmas markets in the Midwest of the USA. Around three quarters of the exhibitors travel from Germany to offer handmade Christmas decorations, mulled wine and bratwurst. For the city, the market is not only a cultural highlight, but also a huge networking event that brings together German and American companies – a typical Chicago blend of business and culture.

WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND TO OTHER STUDENTS WHO WANT TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES?

Pötzl: Chicago is the perfect place to start. The city offers real American big-city flair, but is still reasonably affordable compared to New York or San Francisco. At the same time, Chicago makes it easy for newcomers to arrive. The people are open, the public transportation network is surprisingly good, and everyone can quickly find their favorite place in the many different neighborhoods.

If you are in the mood for the American dream, you will find a perfect blend of career opportunities, urban living and genuine Midwest hospitality here. 

And if all this sounds like an exciting experience: the AHK Chicago is regularly looking for interns in various fields. 

Links:

• Career page AHK | Website
• Digital Marketing | Career-friendly full-time program
• City Chicago | Website