What Hanna Really Learned in her Studies

Even as a child, Hanna Wimmer wanted to understand how the world works. She was fascinated by other countries, languages, and cultures from an early age - as well as the structures behind them. “I’ve always been curious and wanted to understand how things fit together,” says the student in the full-time bachelor’s program in International Business Studies (now: International Business Management) at Kufstein University of Applied Sciences in Tyrol.

This curiosity connects the Upper Austrian from Waizenkirchen with a second passion: structure. “I love planning things, organizing projects, and getting to the bottom of complex issues,” she says with a laugh. A penchant for Excel spreadsheets is, of course, part of the package for her. Her studies combine precisely these two interests: an international perspective and an understanding of economic processes.

UNDERSTANDING THE ECONOMY – IN A COMPLEX WORLD

Throughout her studies, Hanna has not only gained professional knowledge but also built up her self-confidence. “I’ve learned just how complex and dynamic our world is,” she says. That is precisely why it is important to remain flexible and tackle challenges together.

One formative experience for her was the business simulation game she played during her studies. Working in teams, the students analyzed global supply chains and made business decisions in an international market environment. “It really drives home how closely interconnected economic systems are - and how quickly conditions can change.”

A YEAR IN SWEDEN – AND MANY NEW PERSPECTIVES

Hanna experienced this international perspective particularly vividly during her year abroad in Sweden. There, she worked in international teams with students from various countries and engaged deeply with issues of sustainability and innovation.

“Sweden is a true pioneer in this field,” she says. Her courses and projects focused on topics such as the circular economy, sustainable innovation, and new technologies. She was particularly impressed by the Oceanbird project by Alfa Laval and Wallenius, a concept for a wind-powered cargo ship that demonstrates how technological innovation and sustainability can work together.

EXPERIENCE DIGITALIZATION FIRSTHAND

In addition to international topics, digitalization also plays a central role in the program. Students explore digital business models and use tools such as the Business Model Canvas to analyze how technological developments are transforming businesses.

For Hanna, this became particularly clear during a practical project with a Tyrolean technology company. As project manager, she and her team coordinated the development of digital communication strategies - ranging from website optimization and social media to concepts for customer acquisition. “I was able to directly apply a lot of what I learned in my studies.”

A CAMPUS WITH AN INTERNATIONAL ATMOSPHERE

For Hanna, the Kufstein campus itself also plays a big part in her college experience. “When you walk into the university, you immediately feel welcome,” she says. Small classes, personalized support, and close interaction with faculty create a family-like atmosphere.

She particularly appreciates the diversity on campus. Students from different countries and cultures shape everyday life and bring the exchange to life. “You experience this international atmosphere not only in the classes, but also in everyday life.”

And then there’s the setting: “With a view of the Tyrolean mountains, it’s hard to be in a bad mood,” says Hanna with a smile.

A DEGREE THAT OPENS DOORS

Looking back, one thing stands out above all else for her: the combination of an international focus, practical relevance, and personal growth. She considers the opportunity to spend part of her studies abroad a special privilege.

For Hanna, one thing is clear: her studies have not only expanded her knowledge but also broadened her perspective on the world. And that was exactly her goal from the very beginning.

Links:

• International Business Management | ft