Florian Gschwandtner: Entrepreneurial Success

One of the most remarkable success stories is that of Florian Gschwandtner, an alumnus of the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria. Completing both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Mobile Computing at the Hagenberg Campus, Gschwandtner also pursued an additional Master’s degree in Management at the Steyr Campus. His educational path in Austria was pivotal—he met his future co-founders during his studies, and together they successfully developed the globally popular fitness app “Runtastic,” later acquired by Adidas.

“During my studies in Hagenberg, I got to know my future fellow founders. For example, we lived together in the same dormitory or studied on the same degree program. So you could say that the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria was our starting point.”

Gschwandtner credits his university experience, peer network, and the unwavering support from faculty as critical factors in his success. This quote encapsulates the significance of networking and collaboration during his vital formative years.

International Students: Academic to Professional Pathways

Austria provides robust support for international graduates seeking to transition from academic life to professional careers. One of the standout features is the opportunity for graduates from non-EU countries to extend their residence permits for up to twelve months after completing their studies. This allowance gives ample time to seek employment, making the transition smoother.

Additionally, Poland’s Red-White-Red Card for Graduates allows international alumni to secure long-term career opportunities in Austria’s job market, provided they secure job offers that align with their qualifications. Notably, this system enables successful international graduates to continue contributing their skills and innovative ideas to Austria’s economy.

Transformational Experiences and Global Competence

International students often report that studying in Austria provides not only significant academic enrichment but also transformational personal growth. The adjustment to local culture, the embrace of new languages, and integration into Austrian society are common experiences shared by graduates. These elements foster global competence and an adaptable mindset—key attributes for pursuing international careers.

Austria combines a rich cultural heritage with a modern educational framework, making it a conducive environment for students from diverse backgrounds to thrive. Graduates often leave with not just degrees but also invaluable life experiences that shape their global perspectives.

Summary Table: Key Elements of Success for International Graduates

Austrian universities and the country’s supportive infrastructure empower international students to realize their ambitions, making Austria an ideal destination for those seeking both academic and professional success.

The Role of Study in Austria in Facilitating Success

At Study in Austria, we play a crucial role in the journey of international students from pre-admission to post-graduation. Our platform assists students in navigating the complexities of studying in Austria, offering guidance on admission processes, scholarship opportunities, and cultural integration.

The success stories of graduates like Florian Gschwandtner exemplify what can happen when passion meets education in the right environment. Our commitment to providing information and support to prospective students facilitates their transition into successful careers post-graduation.

Take the Next Step with Study in Austria

We encourage university admissions teams, international student recruiters, and agencies involved in student placement to connect with us. By partnering with Study in Austria, you can enhance your recruitment strategies and leverage our platforms to reach a wider audience of potential students.