“My office days are my social days.”
Maura Widmer joined the Communication & Marketing Office of the University of Bern in October 2021. After starting as an intern, Maura assumed various other roles and is, today, part of the “Internal Communication” team. In this interview, she shares what she particularly appreciates about her work, how she experiences the work culture within her area, and why she feels her professional growth is being supported at the University of Bern.
Interview with Maura Widmer, Staff Member, Internal Communication
When did you join the University of Bern, and in which capacity?
In October 2021. I began as in intern in the Communication & Marketing Office. Today, I work there as a staff member of the “Internal Communication” team, and have taken on various exciting tasks since then.
What do you tell your friends and family about the University of Bern as an employer?
I often tell them intriguing facts and new insights that I gained through my work at the university. The University of Bern is a place where research and teaching take center stage – giving me plenty of interesting things to share with others.
How would you describe the work culture in your office?
We have a great atmosphere in our office – so much so that I have even formed some close friendships here. After the pandemic I was especially happy to be back in the office. That’s why I refer to my office days as my “social days”: We eat lunch together, take coffee breaks together and chat spontaneously about our work. If I had to choose an image for this, it would be enjoying a picnic on Falkenplatz square – feeling relaxed, open and connected.
What word do you think describes the University of Bern best?
To me, the University of Bern is diverse. My work has given me the opportunity to get to know diverse perspectives – initially in the domain of scientific communication where I worked closely with researchers, and today in “Internal Communication” where I make sure that important information reaches the employees.
Have there been key moments when you have felt particularly supported by the University of Bern?
Yes, there have been many. I studied at the University of Bern. Upon completing my degree, I began working as an intern at the university. I have always felt highly valued, right from the start. Following my internship, I was given the opportunity to step in for someone and was later approached directly for a new position. That showed me that my work is seen and valued – and that they wanted to keep me as part of the team.
What would you have appreciated knowing when you first started at the University of Bern?
How different the structures and working methods are in the various faculties and central administration units. Knowing that would have enabled me to understand and shape collaborations even better from the start.