News articles

Today in conversation with: Laura Österreicher, MSc

Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Specialist at SEforALL, MSc Environmental Techonology and International Affairs Alumna Class 2014-2016

Portrait Laura Österreicher

[Translate to English:]

[Translate to English:]

Why did you choose the ETIA master course at TU Wien?

I was looking for a master program that would allow me to combine my professional background in marketing and business development with an international career in sustainable development.  ETIA allowed me to do this. 

 

What advice would you want to give to new prospective ETIA master course students – what should they know?

The ETIA master course is a great 2 year master program. Each year allows you to dive into a different aspect of the master course. Bringing the two worlds of international development and environmental technology together at an early stage of the course is when you get the most of the course. Do not wait for the second year at the TU Wien to start thinking about how current issues (e.g.: in water management, energy transition, waste management, air pollution, climate change) interrelate and can be addressed by international relations, international law or economics. This will also help you with your master thesis topics. 

 

How did you benefit from the program personally? (networking, management of relationships)?

The ETIA program has provided me with a solid understanding of international relations as well as a sound knowledge of environmental sciences. This allowed me to qualify for a JPO position with Sustainable Energy for All and to start my professional career in sustainable development. 

When applying for jobs, the reputation of the TU Wien and the Diplomatic Academy was definitely an advantage for me. However, for me personally, the alumni network was even more valuable. Being able to ask other alumni about their career and work experiences allowed me to gain a better understanding of the different work fields and possibilities and consequently helped me start my career. 

 

What come to your mind when you think about the program? What were the highlights?

My fellow students. We were a diverse group of highly motivated students and had a great team dynamic. We supported each other, studied together on the weekends and celebrated the different milestone through the master course. 

 

What are your hobbies?

My hobbies are hiking, cycling, running, bee keeping, wine tasting. 

 

For detailed information about the MSc Program, please visit our homepage: www.etia.at

Next program start: September 30, 2019