Marcel Märdian
Interview with Marcel Märdian
Marcel Märdian is in his 6th semester of the Bachelor's degree program in Business Information Systems and is an "ambassador" for Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences.
Why did you decide to study Business Information Systems?
Three aspects were decisive for me.
- My best friend and "big brother" is an entrepreneur and thus I have already gained many insights into self-employment over a number of years. I always found business processes exciting - so it was clear from the start that it would be something with business.
- In addition, I have always been enthusiastic about new technologies, so this point should also be covered.
- The third aspect is working with other people. I like to get in touch with different personalities.
These are my reasons for studying Business Information Systems, because the interaction between information technology, people and organizations is optimally covered here.
What appeals to you most about the degree program?
What fascinates me most is that I take on an interface function. It is a cross-sectional discipline between business administration and computer science. The requirements for an information system are determined together with the users and then solutions are developed in collaboration with programmers. These can be new software products or improved operational processes. There is a great deal of diversity here.
In your opinion, what is the biggest difference to school?
In my perception, there are four major differences:
- At school, there is compulsory attendance, which is strictly controlled. This is not the case for most events at university, especially lectures. Of course, if you don't attend a course, you have to learn the subject on your own.
- Another difference is the exam period. There are exams twice a year, at the end of each semester. Students should prepare for the exams independently throughout the semester.
- The third point is elective modules. In contrast to the relatively rigid schedule at school, the study program can be much more individualized. There are compulsory courses, and in addition often a wide range of elective courses that can be chosen by the student.
- A final point is responsibility. Nothing is handed over to you in your studies. I get the information I need myself, and I choose my elective modules myself and integrate them into my schedule. I also take care of important deadlines and dates myself. Many students are still used, from their school days, to others organizing these things.
What do you like most about the campus?
What I like most about the campus is its location. It's on the edge of the Hardtwald forest and yet not far from the city center. Karlsruhe Castle with its adjacent castle garden is also within easy walking distance. If you want to have some peace and focus, this is the place for you. It's all very manageable and familiar.
Have you already found yourself a student activity?
The ambassadors of Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences help you to ease contact with students through a low-threshold exchange of information. As part of my ambassadorial work, I often meet young people, and I realize that I can help them by means of my presentations, tours of the campus, or by answering their questions. These are good moments when I realize that, in some way, I can help my counterpart find the way that is hopefully perfect for him or her.
It is also gratifying for me when a class that is rather listless at the beginning, perhaps made to visit and explore the university, turns into an attentive group that shows you respect, attention and interest, and at the end of their visit turn out to be very glad to be here. This is when I achieved everything I wanted to achieve by this day at our university: Give motivation.
Do you already have plans where you would like to spend your internship semester?
I want to spend my internship semester in Singapore, that's my first priority. I would like to get to know exciting and foreign cultures and gain further experience with new working methods and rules of conduct. I hope that I will be able to benefit from this later in my professional life when working with international teams and partners or customers. In today's globalized world, this is more important than ever.
Do you already have plans and goals for what you want to do after graduation?
I would like to take a management position as a business IT specialist in the field of consulting. My goal is to further develop digital business processes, to facilitate work processes through increased computer support and also to establish and improve networking between different companies.
Would you like to work in a particular branch of industry later on?
Definitely in the IT industry. In my opinion, future viability and IT are inseparable. Information technology is used for in-depth analyses and planning. The opportunities that arise from this are extremely exciting. In order for companies to remain future-proof, they need to work more resource-efficiently and increase their flexibility. State-of-the-art industrial software and IT solutions that optimize production and business processes are a basic prerequisite here. This is where I would like to play a part and contribute my knowledge and experience.
What advice would you like to give to prospective students?
Take advantage of the opportunities that are offered to you, especially here in Germany. You have so many opportunities. Find out what you like and in which field you can imagine your future. Then find a course of study that suits you, move to a great new city and get active. Don't wait for lucky coincidences, but take your future into your own hands and make your own way.