Alexander Ernst

As part of the “Alumni.Erzählen.” initiative, Alexander Ernst shares insights into his time as a distance-learning student at FERNFH and explains how he applies the knowledge he gained to his professional practice.

I’d like to add one more thing…
Communication between students and faculty was always on an equal footing—an aspect that fosters a sense of support and acceptance and contributes to a pleasant overall atmosphere. Even though it was a very formative and demanding time, I would choose to study at FernFH again in a heartbeat.

I decided to pursue a distance learning program—specifically, the FERNFH—because …
… this type of program allows for a very high degree of flexibility and effectively links theoretical content to practical, day-to-day work. As a result, the conditions for completing the program while working full-time are ideal. After completing my business apprenticeship, I had already earned my vocational maturity certificate while working, so it was clear to me that I would also choose this format for my degree program. 

My personal situation during my studies … (job, family, free time, etc.)
… I held a full-time job for almost the entire duration of my studies and also served in a part-time role in local politics. In addition, I regularly worked as an adjunct instructor at a continuing education institute. In my personal life, I was in a relationship, which was a great source of support on the one hand, but on the other hand didn’t always allow me to devote my entire weekends to my studies. 

Looking back, the biggest challenge I faced while studying remotely was …
… on the one hand, the multiple demands that studying while working naturally entails, and on the other hand, the physical distance from my fellow students, which sometimes made group work more difficult. 

An experience from my college days that I fondly remember …
… I have fond memories of the in-person sessions, because they gave us the chance to get to know the “names and faces” from the online forums a little better. In my opinion, these sessions were very helpful in fostering a positive team spirit. 

Here’s how the distance learning program has influenced my career/my professional situation …
… My professional and part-time work situations haven’t changed since I completed the program, but I’ve still been able to apply what I learned in the various courses very effectively in practice. 

This is where I benefited the most from distance learning:
It’s difficult for me to focus on just one specific area. I would generally say that I’ve benefited from the distance learning program—with all its content—both professionally and, above all, personally. 

These skills and abilities are becoming increasingly important in my profession/industry …
… As part of my bachelor’s thesis, I explored new ways of working, among other topics. At the same time, the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the country, forcing companies to rethink how they approach work. This shift did not spare my employer either, and I am now able to contribute my expertise and help shape our operational workflows. 

My tips for first-year students and anyone interested in a degree program or course at FERNFH:
Distance learning does indeed offer a high degree of flexibility. However, if you decide to pursue a part-time degree program, you need to be aware of the multiple demands it will place on you and carefully consider whether you actually have sufficient personal and time resources.