Johanna Ortner works at the University of Klagenfurt’s career services, where she helps students sucessfully transition into the working world. In the interview, she explains why networking, practical experience, and a unique personal profile are real career game-changers.

Many students only start thinking about jobs towards the end of their degrees. Why is it worth starting much earlier?
If you engage with your career early on, your transition into professional life will be much more relaxed. Even during your studies, you can choose specific focus areas to build an individual profile. This is possible via minors, extension programmes, final theses, or electives. And, of course, through hands-on experience in project work. This builds theoretical and practical skills that make your profile unique.
Are there other ways to develop a unique selling point while at university?
International experience and language skills can be a major plus. The University of Klagenfurt offers incredible opportunities through its partner universities. This does not just improve your language proficiency and intercultural experience; it also shows openness, self-management, flexibility, and adaptability. Those are skills that count in the working world.
Is work experience during your studies essential, or is it just ‘nice to have’?
While internships are a fixed part of the curriculum in some degrees, they are recommended as a voluntary component in others – either way, they are always meaningful and valuable. Practical experience does not only strengthen your skills, but also helps you test what you have learned and build vital professional contacts.
Networking sounds quite daunting to many. How can students do it naturally alongside their studies?
Actually, networking happens naturally in many situations – for instance, in conversations with fellow students and lecturers. Career events and excursions are also fantastic opportunities to meet people, without it feeling like a mandatory networking chore. If you want to maintain your professional network in the long run, you should additionally use platforms like LinkedIn.
When it comes to job applications, what really matters?
I always advise applying only for roles that truly align with your interests and skills. It really helps to figure out your strengths and explore potential career paths early on. Furthermore, always tailor your documents to the specific job advert. This works best after thorough research. Copyand-paste applications are a waste of time. Finally, if you can communicate your skills clearly and back them up with examples, you’re on to a winner. Employers do not automatically know the specific content taught in your chosen degree.
What is the single best move a student can make?
Without a doubt: make use of the Career Services offers – and do it early: aau.at/en/alumni-career

Der Beitrag University: your first step towards a career and why you shouldn’t wait until graduation. erschien zuerst auf University of Klagenfurt.