Laura Anna Maria Vdovic
Study programme: Business Studies (BA) (opens in a new window)
Employer: KPMG AG Auditing company
Position: Management consultant
Straightforward or via detours: what was your school career like and what interests did you have as a younger person?
My school career was initially relatively straightforward until I completed my A-levels. After that, however, I made a conscious decision not to start studying or training straight away, but to discover the world as a long-haul flight attendant. This time gave me valuable intercultural experience and strengthened my ability to work in a flexible and structured way - qualities that later helped me a lot in my professional career. I had a strong interest in analytical thinking and economic contexts from an early age. I have always been fascinated by numbers, especially the way they can be used to make informed decisions. That's why, after my time as a flight attendant, I focused specifically on my career and embarked on a career in management consultancy specialising in accounting. Here I can put my analytical skills and my interest in financial structures to optimal use.
What tips can you give young people who are looking for the right degree programme?
I would advise young people looking for the right degree programme to take a close look at their own interests and strengths. Practical experience, whether through internships or conversations with professionals, can help to get a clearer picture of the possibilities. But above all: don't put yourself under pressure! The perfect path often only becomes apparent over time, and sometimes detours lead to the experiences that really help you progress!
What tips would you give students on your degree programme?
I would advise students to gain practical experience early on - be it through internships, working student jobs or exchanges with professionals. Networking is particularly valuable in this area. It also helps not only to focus on theory, but also to develop a good understanding of practical applications. And most importantly: remain open to new opportunities - often the best opportunities arise off the originally planned path.
What is your advice to all graduates who are looking for their first job?
My advice to graduates is to remain open and flexible. Your first job doesn't have to be the perfect job for the next few decades - it's more important to gain experience and develop yourself further. Networking can play a major role in this, be it through contacts from internships, university or professional platforms. It is also worth looking specifically for companies that not only fit professionally, but also culturally and personally. And last but not least: be self-confident! You bring more to the table than you often give yourself credit for.
What experiences from your studies at HNU have proved valuable in your professional life?
The practical training and the close connection to business were particularly valuable. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practice-orientated projects helped me to quickly grasp complex issues and apply them in practice. In addition, teamwork and the exchange with companies during my studies were good preparation for the demands of professional life.
How would you complete the beginning of the following sentence?
HNU... "has not only provided me with sound specialised knowledge, but also a practical and future-oriented way of thinking that has optimally prepared me for my professional career."
