Lit by a spark – inspired by the chemistry teacher

Maria enjoys spending her free time outdoors, going for walks alone in nature. She is passionate about snowboarding and has recently taken up longboarding. She also loves solo traveling, backpacking, drawing, and solving crosswords. Her modest vinyl collection, particularly her jazz music records, is what she misses most about home.

Why studying at IMC Krems?

Maria has always aspired to study abroad, as she is eager to explore new places beyond her comfort zone. She chose Austria as the most suitable option for her studies, because Austria has many mountains and, therefore, hiking opportunities that promise a great work-life balance. But also at IMC she can study in English and the course outlines and practical applications convinced her to apply at IMC Krems.

It was back home in Bulgaria that Maria’s high school chemistry teacher first sparked her passion for the subject. Classes were not only fun and engaging but also quickly became her favorites. However, what truly inspired her, was the teacher’s ability to break down complex topics into simple, easy-to-understand concepts.

After finishing high school, Maria took a gap year to reflect on her academic path, as she was unsure of what to study. During that time, she remembered her high school chemistry teacher and chose to pursue a chemistry degree which would allow her to pursue her interests in a meaningful and academically valuable way. As of now, the student wishes to end up in a career in environmental or green chemistry, as well as in the renewable energy sector—fields where she believes she can make a lasting impact on the future.

Highlights of being a student at IMC Krems

Maria enjoys laboratory work, where she can apply her experience and practical knowledge. This is why she appreciates the hands-on experiences from lecturers and the programme itself at IMC Krems. In Maria’s opinion this is how she can learn the most.

Her community of friends also gives her the support she needs to succeed in her academic life. She especially enjoys Thursday’s karaoke nights and regular Taco Friday nights with her roommates at home. Those things are her personal highlights, Maria tells us.

Maria says that “studying is a personal journey, which forces you to grow. It also challenges you and pushes you towards self-progress. Instead of comparing yourself, you should go to your own base.”

Semester abroad in South America

The fifth semester will be the practical training semester, and therefore, Maria has chosen to leave Europe and go to a different continent. She plans to spend this semester in South America, where she is in the middle of the process of securing her internship in analytical chemistry, as this the field that she enjoys the most. Furthermore, she is very much interested inclined towards the environmental or green sector.

One bullet point on Maria’s bucket list after completing her studies at IMC is to walk the Camino de Santiago. Later, she could also see herself doing a master degree programme outside Europe, preferably in Australia, where she can go surfing and enjoying the outdoors on the sunshine coast. Maria loves the sun and warm weather and prefers living in warm climate.

Maria’s Advice to future students

IMC Krems offers a wide variety of degree programmes, supported by experienced and approachable lecturers who are always available for questions. The campus features state-of-the-art laboratories that provide students with excellent hands-on learning opportunities. The campus itself is beautiful, and the town of Krems adds to the appeal with its charming, picturesque atmosphere and plenty of outdoor spaces which are perfect for relaxing and recharging. Furthermore having a car gives her the freedom to drive around and explore more of the Austrias prestige landscape.

We are excited to see your journey unfold, Maria, and wish you all the best in completing your studies.

Chemistry bachelor degree programme