Annalisa Bissoli, Intern Basic Data and Analyses, Federal Administration

To help current students and recent graduates navigate the world of work, several USI Alumni shared their career paths and career story. Here the story of Annalisa Bissoli, Intern Basic Data and Analyses at Federal Social Insurance Office in Bern (CH). USI Degree: Master in Economics, 2024.

How did you start your career?

Just before graduating, my Master's Director informed me about an open internship position at the Federal Social Insurance Office within the Federal Administration. The role was a perfect match for my interests, so I decided to apply—and in the end, I got the job. I believe that the support I received during my studies, particularly from some professors and the USI Career Service, was crucial in helping me gain clarity on my next steps.

Why did you choose a career at the Federal Administration?

I decided to apply for an internship position at the Federal Administration because it seemed like an excellent opportunity to balance gaining handson experience with continued learning. The chance to apply academic concepts in real-world scenarios, alongside with access to training and exposure to the activities of Swiss public institutions, made it an ideal fit for someone like me who values both learning and contributing meaningfully to society.

What is your current role/duties?

Within the Basic Data and Analyses division of the FSIO, I support the team in conducting data analyses on various Swiss social insurance schemes. Additionally, I contribute to the publication of key statistics and assist in analyzing data to help government departments revise legislation and improve the social insurance system.

In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career at the Federal Administration?

There is a wide variety of job roles within the Federal Administration, each requiring different skills and competencies. Even within my department at the Federal Social Insurance Office, I have meet colleagues with diverse academic backgrounds, including Economics, Political Science, Law, and Computer Science. Hence, it is difficult to define a set of qualities necessary for a career in this field. However, strong language skills—especially in German—are an asset across all positions.

What positive aspects and qualities meant most to you during the study programme you attended?

There are several aspects of the Master's in Economics that I believe make this program one of a kind. For example, the diverse range of courses offered, the emphasis on the application of concepts in addition to theoretical learning, and the excellent teacher-student ratio. As students, we had the possibility to explore topics from multiple perspectives while closely interacting with outstanding professors, who equipped us with the essential tools to excel not only in exams but also in our future career. Moreover, the flexibility in structuring the study plan through the choice of two minors and second-year courses really allows students to tailor the program to their specific needs and interests.

What competences and skills acquired in your USI Study Program have been useful/are useful to your professional career?

I believe that the emphasis of the Master’s program on both economic theory and practical application has been essential in my current role. The courses I attended provided me with the technical expertise necessary for accurate data analysis, as well as the ability to interpret statistical findings with an economic perspective. Additionally, the Master's program helped me develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which I apply daily in the activities and duties I previously mentioned.

What is your advice to USI students entering the job market?

My advice to USI students entering the job market is to leverage the skills and knowledge gained during their studies while remaining open to new opportunities. I also believe that networking is crucial given the high level of competition in the job market. Hence, connecting with professors, alumni, and professionals in the field of interest can help one learn about job opportunities and gain valuable insights into the industry.