What happens when a solid business education meets curiosity for other cultures? The result is a path like that of Magdalena Frenkenberger – our tourism graduate at IMC Krems and new Alumni Ambassador for Mexico City. Her journey is a prime example of lived internationality and intercultural understanding.
Story
Between worlds: Magdalena Frenkenberger builds global connections
Where it all began: study years at IMC Krems
Magdalena chose the bachelor degree programme in Tourism and Leisure Management at IMC Krems – a programme that combines business expertise with internationality, sustainability and interdisciplinary skills. During her studies, she was shaped not only by theoretical knowledge but also by numerous practical projects, close exchange with international students and inspiring lecturers.
“For me, IMC Krems was more than just a place to study – it was the starting point for my global way of thinking,” she recalls. Particularly formative: her exchange semester in Mexico and her internship in Thailand.
From the Danube region to the megacity
Today, Magdalena lives in Mexico City, a vibrant metropolis with over 20 million people – a stark contrast to the small town of Krems, but exactly the kind of challenge she is looking for. She works as an SAP consultant at an IT consulting firm. Her role requires cultural mediation, analytical thinking and project management – all skills she developed in Krems.
What do you particularly enjoy about your work in Mexico, and how do your study experiences play a role there?
Through the international orientation of the degree programme, there was always a strong link to experiences abroad. My exchange semester in Guadalajara was especially formative, because since then, my fascination with Mexico has never faded. Alongside the language skills I gained, I also built valuable friendships and contacts. I would say that IMC, as well as my time in Mexico back then, prepared me in the best possible way for my life here.
Why are you ready to establish a new IMC Alumni Chapter for Mexico City? What motivates you?
Because I know exactly which hurdles and challenges you encounter when settling in another country. I would like to be a point of contact here and build bridges between Austria and my chosen home Mexico. Since I look back on my time at IMC so positively, I want to give something back. And also because it’s simply fun to make new contacts and gain different perspectives.
What tips do you have for tourism students starting their careers?
Allow yourself to try things out and simply gain experience. Dare to take new directions, too. And most importantly: follow your heart and do what truly brings you joy.
Ambassador for global opportunities
As the new Alumni Ambassador, she brings perspectives from Krems to Mexico – and vice versa. She networks, inspires and opens doors.
Magdalena’s career path clearly shows that a global mindset is not an innate talent but something that can be learned – especially if you embrace international experiences early on. Her story also highlights that intercultural competence is no longer a “nice-to-have” but a key career factor. And finally, it demonstrates how IMC Krems as a university of applied sciences can open doors worldwide – both academically and professionally.