"What are your best memories of studying ESS?"
At the time of my studies (matriculation number 9311738), ESS was still a "Studium Irregulare", which had to be applied for individually at the Ministry. The flexibility in the choice of subject bundles made it possible to have a highly individualized study program consisting of many fields (business administration, economics, chemistry, meteorology, philosophy, etc.).
"What was the most important thing you learned during your studies?
Clearly the ability to work scientifically/scientific research.
"What advice would you like to give to the ESS community/students?"
Very difficult in ignorance of the "new" (regular) curricula. But in any case, to acquire basic skills in the areas of business, digitalization, social and intercultural competence (including languages).
Are you still in contact with your former fellow students/friends?
Yes, I am still in contact with a few fellow students who are now scattered across many countries.
What surprised or inspired you the most during your studies?
The most unusual thing was the high degree of self-organisation and the need to structure your studies yourself (there was no introductory phase, for example). I learnt a lot from this time, which will benefit me both in my professional and private life. The international character, the concentrated knowledge and the wide range of courses at the university still inspire me today. I also always enjoy meeting former professors or hearing/reading about them in the media.
In hindsight, would you have done anything differently or what tips can you give USW students?
The exchange with other fellow students from different semesters is essential in order to make good progress in your studies. Ideally, you can save yourself a lot of travelling and also make valuable contacts. Building up a network is also very important in later professional life.
"What are your best memories of studying at ESS?"
I particularly liked the numerous excursions, where you could then apply the theoretical knowledge you had learned in practice.
"What was the most important thing you learned during your studies?"
Especially the interdisciplinary approach also benefits me in my current job, where you work across departments to find solutions for daily tasks.
"What advice would you like to give to the ESS community/students?"
As long as you stay curious and open to new things, studying environmental systems science provides a good foundation for your future professional life, even beyond your chosen major.
Work tasks: identification and spatial location of renewable energy potentials as well as energy consumption of all economic sectors in Austria until 2050. Particular focus is on researching the potentials of biogases such as green hydrogen or biomethane, which can be produced from renewable energy sources (e.g. biomass, solar energy).
"What are your best memories of being a ESS student?"
I especially have fond memories of the field exercises and excursions. Whether it was pouring rain in Wildon, complete darkness in the Katerloch near Weiz or bright sunshine in the Rettenbachklamm. Exciting professional and also private conversations with fellow students and lecturers made each of these experiences special.
"What was the most important thing you learned in your studies?"
The most important thing I learned in my studies is how diverse the possibilities are to be able to create a sustainable future. The knowledge learned in the ESS programme is the best tool for that and for me the biggest benefit from my time at KFU.
"What advice would you like to give to the ESS community/students?"
As a systems scientist, I think it is especially important to also look beyond the balance sheet boundaries of the system, and this also applies to your studies. Use the chance to educate yourself professionally but don't forget to enjoy the study time.
"What are your best memories of studying ESS?"
I still don't know of any other degree that gives you such a broad view of a system as happens in the ESS degree.
"What was the most important thing you learned in your studies?
Independence and working out interdisciplinary topics with colleagues from other ESS disciplines (e.g., geography, business administration). This still helps me today when completing projects involving experts from a wide variety of fields.
"What advice would you like to give to the ESS community/students?"
Think outside the box - The ESS degree is by design different than other majors. Use the strengths of this interdisciplinary approach in your thinking.
Victoria Allmer, MSc
Study: ESS NM
Place of employment: Naturpark Pöllauer Tal
Job title: Project management of the Climate and Energy Model Region (KEM) and Climate Change Adaptation Model Region (KLAR) Naturpark Pöllauer Tal, (KEM and KLAR manager) and place of employment: Klimabündnis Österreich GmbH, Regionalstelle Steiermark Job title: : Project Management & Public Relations
"What are your best memories of studying ESS?"
I have particularly positive memories of the diversity of the studies. In addition, of course, the many people in the course of study and the particularly good working atmosphere at the Institute for Environmental Systems Sciences.
"What was the most important thing you learned during your studies?
Self-reliance, time management and questioning statements scientifically. Very valuable qualities for work as well, especially in project management.
"What advice would you like to give to the ESS community/students?"
My advice is to make contacts and gain practice early in your studies. The interdisciplinary internships and holiday internships offered are particularly valuable here. In addition, the university offers Free Electives to broaden your horizons beyond your personal studies. It is not about collecting points (ECTS), but to find yourself and to develop yourself further. Be inquisitive and take advantage of what is on offer!