Alumni Spotlight - Constantin Spallart, BBA '13

After graduating in 2013, Constantin Spallart worked in one of Vienna's top hotels until deciding to put his business skills to the test and become an entrepreneur. His brand new book café 'TALK- Books and Coffee' opened up on July 1st in Vienna's first district. He shares his path to MU and inspiration for his new venture.

Tell us a little bit about yourself! Where are you from, and why did you decide to study at MODUL University Vienna?

I grew up in Europe and Africa and went to international schools, moving around often and got to know different cultures. My parents are both Austrian and when my father decided to become entrepreneur in Austria, the family moved to Vienna and I finished my International Baccalaureate at Danube International School. Swiftly thereafter I applied for Modul University Vienna and got accepted. English is my first language and Vienna seemed a fantastic place to settle. Modul University seemed the right place for me.

What were your first career experiences after graduating from MU?

After graduating from MU I did a management traineeship at Half Moon Jamaica, where I got to know the luxury hotel industry from a true hospitality institution. I was motivated to precede a career in this industry with goals reaching up to 15 years in the future. I applied to all the luxury hotels in Vienna and quickly decided to become a waiter at Le Meridien where I stayed for 16 months.

What's the idea behind your bookstore? What do you offer customers and why did you choose the location?

Used books are just as readable as new books, especially if they are literary works. I sell, lend, trade and offer a reading area for these books at TALK. I also offer a place where one can get advice on ones next book and drink a great Italian coffee, which is hard to find in Vienna.

How did your studies at MU prepare you to start your own business? 

Many courses at MU are very helpful in the planning of projects. The teamwork at university helped me to tackle each problem with new confidence and in times of distress I knew that help would come from either a colleague or an obstacle that has to be overcome. I contacted many old and new friends who were willing to make an effort and help me with my bookstore, some also from MU.

TALK – Books and Coffee is located at Fichtegasse 7, 1010 Wien. Opening hours are currently from 10:00 until 18:00 during the week and 12:00 until 17:00 on Saturday.