Seven individuals from GBSN member institutions received scholarships to study at the Global School in Empirical Research Methods (GSERM) at the University of St.Gallen in Switzerland this summer. We are pleased to congratulate Krati Jain (Indian Institute of Management Indore), Jackline Keru (Strathmore University), Faiza Murtaza (Lahore School of Economics), Sussie Mutahi (Strathmore University), Ankit Rohilla (Indian Institute of Management Indore), Mehrukh Salman (Lahore School of Economics), and Suzanne Sevilla (Asian Institute of Management).
GSERM offers students, postdocs, and practitioners the opportunity to deepen their analytical and methodological skills through a range of week-long courses taught by world-class faculty.
With a commitment to international exchange and collaboration, GSERM has partnered with GBSN for more than ten years to offer scholarships to students from our network of member institutions around the world. Below, some of this year’s recipients share reflections on their academic and cultural experiences in Switzerland.
Krati Jain
GBSN Member Institution: Indian Institute of Management Indore, India
Two weeks in Switzerland with the GSERM programme, and I’m still processing how much I packed in. The classroom sessions themselves were great: practical, hands-on, the kind of learning that actually sticks. But honestly, half the value came from the fellow participants, people with all sorts of backgrounds, working on some genuinely diverse research projects. I’d walk into a session unsure about a concept and walk out having had it explained three different ways by classmates from three different countries, each bringing their own experience to the table. Some of my favourite moments were just chatting in the dorm kitchen, or the walk back after a city tour, or trying to keep up with conversation at the welcome dinner while figuring out Swiss dining etiquette. And yes, having Mt. Säntis outside the classroom window did make it hard to complain about early mornings. I came in expecting to learn some new skills, and I did, but I didn’t expect to leave with this many genuinely useful connections, people I’ll probably be emailing for advice, or bumping into at conferences. I am truly grateful for this opportunity provided by the scholarship from the GBSN network. Looking back on these two weeks, I can say I was learning from one of the best programmes in the world, with some of the best people, and all of it in Switzerland! Learning really cannot get much better than that.
Jackline Keru
GBSN Member Institution: Strathmore University, Kenya
Receiving the GBSN scholarship to attend the Global School in Empirical Research Methods (GSERM) at the University of St. Gallen was an invaluable experience. During the program, I had the privilege of taking two outstanding courses: Regression Analysis I, taught by Prof. Tim McDaniel and Case Study Methods, taught by Prof. Andrew Bennett. These courses provided a strong foundation in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, equipping me with practical analytical tools and a deeper understanding of rigorous research design that I can directly apply to my PhD research. Learning alongside participants from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds created a stimulating environment for exchanging ideas and building an international network of scholars. I was particularly inspired by the expertise and approachability of the faculty, whose guidance encouraged critical thinking and methodological rigor. Beyond the classroom, experiencing Switzerland’s rich culture and beautiful surroundings made the program even more memorable. I am confident that the knowledge, skills and connections gained through GSERM will significantly enhance my research and support my long-term goal of producing impactful scholarship that contributes to sustainable development across Africa.
Sussie Mutahi
GBSN Member Institution: Strathmore University, Kenya
Attending GSERM 2026 was one of the highlights of my academic journey, and I am so grateful to have experienced it in the beautiful setting of Switzerland. The warmth of the faculty was evident from the very first day. One professor noticed that some participants lacked full access to the course software and took it upon herself to develop an alternative programme guide so that no one was left behind. The courses were exceptional: as a lawyer, the Gen AI in Research Methods class pushed me well outside my comfort zone, yet within just four days I had developed my own LLM-based data collection tool embedded into SoSci Survey software, while the Qualitative Analysis course offered a practical framework I have already begun applying to the interview stage of my PhD research. Both courses embodied a teaching-by-doing philosophy that I am now inspired to bring back to my own students at home. Beyond the classroom, meeting fellow participants from a remarkable range of countries and backgrounds broadened my thinking in ways that are hard to fully put into words. And if someone had told me I would one day find myself in the stunning mountain landscapes of Heidiland, the real-life setting of the beloved story, I would never have believed them. Yet there I was, taking in that magical scenery on a guided trip through Zurich, Heidiland, and Liechtenstein. I leave St. Gallen with new skills and (hopefully) lasting friendships.
Ankit Rohilla
GBSN Member Institution: Indian Institute of Management Indore, India
My time at the University of St. Gallen’s Global School in Empirical Research Methods (GSERM) was a truly memorable and transformative experience. The program helped me strengthen my empirical and analytical skills through engaging coursework and hands-on projects, while the support of the faculty made complex research methods more accessible and practical. Learning alongside participants from different backgrounds was both inspiring and rewarding, and it helped me form lasting connections. Beyond the classroom, my experience in Switzerland was culturally enriching and gave me a broader perspective. The learning and relationships I gained at GSERM will stay with me throughout my research journey and academic career.
Mehrukh Salman
GBSN Member Institution: Lahore School of Economics, Pakistan
Attending the Global School in Empirical Research Methods (GSERM) at the University of St. Gallen was an enriching and transformative experience. The program provided me with advanced methodological training that strengthened both my theoretical understanding and practical research skills, particularly in empirical and quantitative methods. Learning from internationally recognized faculty and engaging with participants from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds created a stimulating environment that encouraged intellectual growth and collaboration. Beyond the classroom, the opportunity to experience Swiss culture and interact with scholars from around the world broadened my perspective on research and academia. The knowledge, skills, and professional connections I gained through GSERM will have a lasting impact on my development as a researcher and will significantly contribute to my future academic and professional career.
Suzanne Sevilla
GBSN Member Institution: Asian Institute of Management, Philippines
The β of all things.
If life was an equation, I’ve always wondered what my β would be – the variable that captures how I grow, evolve, and become Suzanne 2.0.
Earlier this year, the question found its way to St. Gallen, Switzerland. I was honored to receive a scholarship from the University of St. Gallen’s Global School in Empirical Research Methods (GSERM). It was the perfect combination for my journey in pursuit of my doctorate: the right timing, a new academic environment, and a community of like-minded individuals. Most importantly, I had the full support of my family. I always believed that whether in work or in study, my family is the ultimate foundation beneath every leap I take.
I decided to take the Structural Equation Modeling class with Dr. Amanda Montoya and the Analyzing Panel Data class with Dr. Christopher Zorn. The topics were fascinating and highly relevant, but – truthfully – not easy. The discussions were dense and technical, and the professors reminded us that these are usually taught over an entire term, so it was natural to feel overwhelmed. Still, the goal was clear: absorb the concepts as much as possible and return to the references when needed. The daily exercises and examinations also strengthened the learning process. A bonus session on “Don’t Do That! Some Things to Avoid in Research Methodology” by Dr. Tim McDaniel offered practical guidance for early career researchers like us.
Outside the classroom full of symbols and formulas, the experience was equally enriching. Dr. Knopf and his team prepared everything thoughtfully – daily breakfast gatherings with fellow students, a cultural tour of the charming center of St. Gallen, dinner at the enchanting Waldegg mountain, a Swiss sausage barbecue, and even a tennis training session. The network was incredible. I met people from Portugal, Pakistan, India, Germany, and many more. Their research topics spanned political economy, hospital systems, taxation, sustainability – wide, diverse, and inspiring. It was energizing to meet individuals who share the same values in uncovering challenges and trying to solve them one step at a time.
Beyond the academic load (and after finishing the assignments), I was able to immerse myself in the city – wandering around like a local, doing grocery runs, visiting the majestic Abbey Library, and exploring Appenzell. The heatwave was real – sunscreen was a must. Nevertheless, the 9:30 p.m. sunset and the reliable transportation system (when not walking) allowed me to visit many other places. The locals were warm and welcoming, and it was always interesting to learn more about the people and their culture.
As always, I am grateful to the Asian Institute of Management, a proud member of the Global Business School Network, whose membership provides access to opportunities like this for its students. My thanks also go to Dr. Knopf and the GSERM team of the University of St. Gallen for offering this scholarship program, welcoming us, expanding our knowledge, and strengthening our ability to create impactful research methodologies that will help us address our chosen grand challenges. Most of all, I am grateful to my family who cheered me on through this humbling solo adventure. Returning to them is always the best part of any journey.
What is your own β?
Investing in things that help you become a better version of yourself will always be worthwhile, the courage to grow – more so when you do it with institutions that help you grow. Would I recommend this experience? Absolutely. Will it challenge you? Absolutely. Will it be life changing? As much as you allow it to be. Set a vision for who you want to become, welcome opportunities, and make the most of them. Hopefully, your journey will include a stop at St. Gallen.