A newcomer to the field of chemistry
Lisa Rausch is 29 years old and lives in St. Pölten. Before she came to IMC Krems to study Applied Chemistry, she worked as a social pedagogue in a youth centre in the province of Lower Austria.
In her bachelor degree programme in Applied Chemistry, the Lower Austrian appreciates the fact that current topics such as environmental or ethical issues are always integrated as well as the focus on analytical chemistry.
If there is interest, then the motivation follows by itself
"To study a scientific subject, you need enthusiasm above all else. Mathematics, physics and Co. are ultimately learnable. If the interest is there, the motivation comes naturally. You should also consider that in every degree programme there are also 1-2 subjects that you are not so keen on. You need some stamina and bite. But that applies to all study programmes, not just in natural sciences."
Simply top: The focus on environmental issues and analytical chemistry
"One of the great advantages of our Applied Chemistry programme is that current topics are always included in every course. The environmental factor is always discussed, but ethical issues are also addressed. This means that we not only learn what is possible, but we also question what is sensible. In this context examples from history are also discussed.
I also find the focus on analytical chemistry great. Various analytical methods are discussed and not only tried out in the analytical laboratory, but also applied for example in the organic laboratory. For example, we regularly used thin layer chromatography to monitor the reaction progress of our synthesis or to perform infrared spectra of our end products. Application orientation is therefore the focus of our studies".
Looking forward to first practical experiences in a research group
"After graduation, I would like to gain a few years of laboratory experience. In the long term, however, I would like to do a master's degree to deepen my knowledge. I see myself more in organic chemistry and I am really looking forward to my professional internship where I can gain first experiences in a research group".
My tip is short and to the point: Follow your gut feeling!
