Stephanie Mezera - BBA '10 and MSc '12

Stephanie Mezera was born and raised in Vienna and graduated from secondary school at Vienna’s Therisianischen Akademie in 2006. She came to MODUL University Vienna in its first year of operation to pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration in Tourism and Hospitality Management. After receiving her bachelor degree in 2010, she stayed true to her MU colours, and continued on to the Master of Science in International Tourism Management. This July she will mark another first for both herself and MODUL University – as part of the first ever MSc graduation.

Why did you decide on a complete 5-year bachelor's and master's studies at MODUL University?

The desire to be active in tourism first developed when I realized that the pharmacy study I had begun did not meet my expectations. It was important for me to continue my education and to have the skills required for a professional career. MODUL University convinced me from the beginning it was the right place. Such strong personal attention to students can only be offered by a private university, due to the small class sizes. The collaboration between professors and students is based on an internal coaching relationship.

What was your motivation to pursue a postgraduate MSc degree at MU following your BBA?

As one of the first graduates of the bachelor program, I had the opportunity to be one of the first students of the master's program. Since I was already pleased with the quality of education in the bachelor studies and very impressed by MODUL University as the only university to offer a business education with a specialization in tourism management in Austria, my choice was quickly made.

What experiences have you had in the MSc so far?

The Master of Science in International Tourism Management offers a variety of courses, especially in business and quality assurance, but also in project management which is an important component. The international group of students allows me insight into other countries and gives me the chance to interact with people from other cultures and to make contacts across borders.

What advantages do you see through the English-language studies and by working almost exclusively with international students?

In tourism in particular, the English language is essential. A study lacking this important aspect would limit graduates’ career prospects to a regional level. Cooperation with international students broadens the mind and reduces stereotyping. Internationally, receiving a degree where English is the study language makes it easier to secure a good job in the current labor market.

What are your plans for after MODUL University and what do you hope to obtain with a master's degree in Tourism Management?

In the next five years I see myself employed in the international hotel industry. This area of tourism has always fascinated me, and with completion of both the bachelors and masters programs, I hope that I can apply my acquired knowledge and can gain practical experience in a large hotel chain. My ultimate goal would be to run a hotel.