Story

Katrin Burchhart: Bringing the world to Krems

Katrin Burchhart is a driving force behind the international experiences that shape student and staff life at IMC Krems. As part of the International Relations team, she coordinates Erasmus+ mobility programmes, supporting students and staff in taking their first steps beyond Austria’s borders. Katrin ensures that opportunities to study, intern or teach abroad are accessible and well-organized.

Katrin Burchhart
Katrin Burchhart (third from right) and the International Relations Team.

A personal connection to mobility

Katrin’s passion for international exchange comes from her own experiences as a student. She studied abroad in Finland and Germany through Erasmus+, experiences that remain some of her favourite memories. Today, she helps others take the chance to step out of their comfort zone and broaden their horizons.

Learning and growing across Europe

Since joining IMC Krems, Katrin has also participated in staff mobilities to Ghent, Murcia, Palermo and Helsinki. These experiences have given her valuable insights into how other institutions operate and strengthened her professional network across Europe. For IMC Krems, staff mobilities foster international partnerships and ensure that staff remain globally connected and innovative.

Creating inclusive and meaningful experiences

A highlight of Katrin’s work is welcoming students and staff from around the world. Through projects like Erasmus+ KA171, IMC Krems supports incoming participants from outside Europe, ensuring everyone feels part of the campus community. She takes special pride in helping students with fewer opportunities, including those with disabilities, chronic illnesses or children, experience life abroad.

Celebrating international exchange on campus

Katrin also plays a key role in organizing IMC Krems’ international events, including International Teaching Days, DiversiTEA & Coffee and the Mobility Fair. These gatherings bring together diverse cultures, perspectives and expertise, enriching both the student experience and the professional lives of staff.

Motivated by impact

What drives Katrin is the transformative impact of international experiences: “I’m motivated by the impact that international experiences have on people’s lives. Seeing students and colleagues grow through mobility, gain confidence and develop intercultural understanding is incredibly rewarding,” she shares.

A reflection for students

Through her dedication, Katrin exemplifies how IMC Krems makes internationalisation a lived experience. Her work ensures that every student has the chance to explore the world, develop globally relevant skills and return with memories that last a lifetime.