"Gain new perspectives in an uncomplicated way"

Why did you decide to study at the FHV?

Florian Tagwerker: Because I didn't just want to study, I also wanted to work. After graduating from HTL Rankweil, it was clear to me that I wanted to find a middle way that would allow me to do both: gain practical experience in my job and at the same time further specialize my knowledge. The dual study programme at the FHV offers me exactly this opportunity and allows me to stay in Vorarlberg, which is important to me. The FHV is the perfect place for me to combine theory and practice while remaining anchored in the region.

Do you work alongside your studies?

I am employed as a dual student at Bösch in Lustenau, where I rotate through various departments - from building control technology to electrical planning, logistics or finance and controlling. I'm also working as a course assistant on the Master's in Business Administration.

Why did you choose Engineering and Management (WING)?

Florian Tagewerker: I was interested in the interdisciplinary approach of WING. In addition to technical subjects and traditional Business Administration subjects, you also learn social skills. This prepares me perfectly for the world of work. What makes studying at the FHV so special? Florian Tagwerker: A big plus point is the many outstanding lecturers, who not only have in-depth specialist knowledge, but also come from a practical background and can therefore provide valuable insights into the real world of work. This mixture of theory and practical relevance makes the course lively. I also appreciate the personal atmosphere and the close cooperation between students and lecturers. Small group sizes enable intensive work and a direct exchange with the lecturers.

You have already gained a lot of experience with the university network Regional University Networks - European University (RUN-EU). What does RUN-EU mean to you?

Florian Tagwerker: Getting to know new people and traveling to other countries. It's exciting to be out and about in different cultures, make new friends and experience things together. RUN-EU takes me to places I might never have seen otherwise and I can gain new perspectives in a very uncomplicated way. I can also specialize my education with Short Advanced Programmes (SAPs). SAPs are short stays abroad of one week.

Which partner universities have you been to and which SAPs have you already completed?

Florian Tagwerker: I have been to universities in Finland, Portugal and Belgium. This year, the Students Week also took place at the FHV as part of the RUN-EU General Assembly. I was also able to attend the European Student Assembly 2023 in Strasbourg as a representative of RUN-EU.

Was there a highlight in the context of RUN-EU?

Florian Tagwerker: That was definitely my first Students Week in Finland. The EVO Campus of the HAMK really is a magical place - in the middle of nature, surrounded by forests, absolutely idyllic. We had a sauna there together and jumped into the lake, which was a unique experience. At the end, we had a barbecue over an open fire. The atmosphere was simply sensational. I also met my current girlfriend during Students Week. She was studying in Portugal at the time and now lives with me in Vorarlberg.

Were you also present at the RUN-EU General Assembly at the FHV in September 2024 in your role as RUN-EU Student Council?

Florian Tagwerker: Yes, and it was a great experience. We from the FHV Student Council were also involved in the design of the week-long event in advance and contributed some ideas from the students' perspective. We were also involved in the Short Advanced Program (SAP) and, of course, the parties - a great opportunity to exchange ideas and have fun. The international students were all enthusiastic about Ländle.

What tasks do you take on as part of your work on the Student Council?

Florian Tagwerker: In the RUN-EU Student Council, we are the link between the students and the RUN-EU project team at the FHV. Our task is to provide direct feedback and input from the students' perspective and thus ensure that their interests and wishes are incorporated into the planning. We also attend events such as "Discover the World" at the FHV to present RUN-EU and inform students about it. Overall, we are responsible for raising awareness of RUN-EU among students and showing them the opportunities and possibilities this network offers.

Find out more about our Engineering and Management degree programme or the RUN-EU.