Yara Gilissen, a graduate of the Tourism and Leisure Management programme, is now working for the HZ University of Applied Sciences in Vlissingen.
Why did you decide to study at IMC Krems?
Yara Gilissen: I had my eye on this study programme for a few years already before I applied. I was intrigued by the fact that I could choose interesting specialisations and a foreign language and have real-life clients in an international atmosphere.
What were your special highlights during your time at IMC Krems?
In general, I had a really great time during my studies and I made some very good friends there with whom I still meet regularly. The evenings at StuWo and several heuriger in the surroundings of Krems will never be forgotten. I also have many memories that I will cherish forever from my ARTS which I spent in Qatar and Oman.
What subjects in the degree programme have been most useful in your current Job?
I’m teaching at a tourism bachelor degree programme now so I can use most of the knowledge from my courses, actually. But since I’m currently teaching about spa and wellness tourism amongst others, this course came in particularly handy.
What did you see as a real “bonus” during your degree programme?
The real life clients we had for most of our projects as this really forces you to transfer you knowledge into practice. In addition, the international guest lecturers we had were of added value in my opinion.
Do you keep in touch with your former university, fellow students and lecturers?
Yes! I’m still friends with some of my classmate and I speak with them regularly. As the alumni ambassador for The Netherlands I’m also in regular contact with the IMC and former students and I hope this will increase over time.
Why would you advise people to study at IMC Krems?
Krems is an amazing town – you’ll spend your studies in a relaxing yet vibrant atmosphere. The lecturers at IMC Krems are very experienced and full of knowledge. Next to this, the international environment in the class is amazing and you will learn so much from your classmates!
How did your career progress after you graduated?
First, I spent one year in Ljubljana, Slovenia on the full-time board of Youth Organisation AIESEC where I was responsible for finance, outgoing exchange and marketing. After this amazing time, I got my current job as a lecturer at the bachelor degree programme Tourism Management at HZ University of Applied Sciences. Of course, I’m encouraging all students to go to Krems for their exchange semester J
What exactly does your current position involve?
I have a very diverse job: I teach courses in Spa & Wellness, Mindfulness, Medical Tourism, Human Resources Management and Intercultural Communication. Next to this, I also supervise graduates during their internship and bachelor thesis, I’m a mentor to first year students and coaching student companies and the study association. No day is boring!
