Elena Maurer is a bachelor degree student in StartUp Management at IMC Krems. From early on, she knew that she wanted to study at a University of Applied Sciences. Growing up in the region, Krems already felt familiar to her. The strong connection to practice and real-world relevance confirmed her decision very quickly.
Story
Finding your voice while building ideas at IMC Krems
Working with ideas, not just business models
With a background in economics, Elena was looking for a degree that would also leave room for creativity. She wanted to work with ideas, explore new approaches and think beyond traditional business models. The StartUp Management degree brought these elements together and offered the balance she was looking for.
A defining aspect of Elena’s studies was that the degree was new when she started her studies. This created a shared starting point for everyone involved. From the very beginning, students learned together, supported each other and shaped the learning environment as a group.
Learning through block weeks and project phases
Teaching in the programme follows a different rhythm. Theory and content are taught in block weeks and bootcamp weeks. The time in between allows students to focus on their own ideas and projects. This structure supports practical application and independent thinking instead of following a fixed university routine.
Building confidence by speaking up and sharing ideas
Throughout her studies, Elena has grown more confident in expressing her ideas and opinions. Speaking up and trusting her own thoughts was one of her biggest personal challenges. Working in teams, exchanging perspectives and presenting concepts helped her develop both academically and personally.
One of Elena’s most memorable moments during her studies was the very first presentation together with her fellow students. It highlighted the effort everyone invested and showed how quickly the cohort developed. As the fourth semester approaches, Elena finds it motivating to see how much confidence and clarity have grown within the group.
Student Clubs at IMC Krems: Engaging in student life
Alongside her studies, Elena has been working as a Student Assistant in the International Relations Office at IMC Krems since September 2025. In this role, she supports and coordinates the Student Clubs. These clubs are voluntary and follow a students for students approach. Students can bring in their own ideas, organise activities they care about or even start a new club.
Active involvement in Student Clubs enables students to connect across degree programmes, gain hands on experience and play an active role in shaping student life at IMC Krems. Through this engagement, students develop organisational skills, strengthen their networks and contribute to a vibrant campus community.
Students can contact welcome(at)imc.ac.at directly by email. The team provides information on existing Student Clubs, supports new ideas and guides students through the next steps.