From vaulting on a galloping horse to studying Tourism and Leisure Management at IMC Krems

From a global childhood to a new chapter in Krems

Sarah grew up with two cultures, an American father and an Austrian mother, and attended the Vienna International School from the age of three until her graduation at eighteen. “Growing up bilingually opened the world to me,” she says.

After finishing high school in Vienna, Sarah was ready for a change of scenery. She wanted a place surrounded by nature, with a welcoming campus atmosphere, and she found exactly that at IMC Krems.

“Studying at IMC Krems has been such a beautiful journey,” she says. “I’ve met incredibly kind and inspiring people who have helped me grow in ways I never expected.”

Keeping pace: managing full-time studies and high-level sport

For the past seven years, Sarah has dedicated herself to equestrian vaulting, gymnastics performed on a moving horse at gallop. Alongside her studies, she manages the demands of high-level competitive sport – a combination that requires exceptional discipline and organisation. Combining athletic precision, trust, discipline and artistry, vaulting has shaped her daily routine and taught her how to balance ambition with responsibility.

Although she still trains three times a week in Vienna, the commute between the two cities has become part of her rhythm. Studying on the train helps her make the most of her time, and our Study Services team has supported her whenever adjustments were needed so she could continue her sport alongside full-time studies.

A dream come true: exchange semester in Palma de Mallorca

A major highlight of the degree programme is the internship semester, something Sarah had been looking forward to since the very beginning of her studies. Soon she will spend six months in Palma de Mallorca, gaining hands-on experience in the tourism industry at a luxury Hotel on the beach of Palma.

But that’s not all: Sarah will also continue her vaulting training in Palma, joining a Spanish team to continue training 3 times a week.

“It means so much to me that I can keep pursuing my sport even abroad,” she says. “I’m excited to learn, work in a completely new environment, and improve my Spanish. And yes, being able to relax on the beach on my free days definitely helps.”

Creativity meets career: working as a Student Marketing Assistant

Alongside her studies, Sarah works as a Student Marketing Assistant in our marketing department. Filming, creating content, and interacting with people from across the university community has given her valuable insight into the marketing world, an area that plays an important role in her study programme.

“I gain new experience with every project, meet amazing people, and feel myself growing more confident each day.”

A journey marked by gratitude and growth

For Sarah, choosing IMC Krems was the right decision in every way. The international atmosphere, the hands-on learning, and the exchange semester have all shaped her path.

“IMC Krems has given me so many opportunities. I’m very grateful, and I’m genuinely happy with who I am becoming.”

More about our Tourism and Leisure Management bachelor degree programme