Nico Rohorzka

As part of the “Alumni.Erzählen.” initiative, Nico Rohorzka 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 decided to pursue a distance learning program—specifically, the FERNFH—because …
… the typical jobs available after graduating from a HAK weren’t appealing to me, and a traditional student life as a full-time student wasn’t an option. The combination of business administration and psychology was ideal for me. 

My personal situation during my studies … (job, family, free time, etc.)
… I was already working before I started my studies. I didn’t have to cut back much on my hobbies (mostly sports and hanging out with friends). After the first few months of school, I knew how things worked and how to plan my weeks. 

Looking back, the biggest challenge I faced during my distance learning program was …
… the first phase of my studies in the first semester. It started in September 2015. Around the same time, I changed jobs and my relationship status. On top of that, I moved to a new place. However, the only thing I had planned was to start my studies… It was an intense period during which, in hindsight, I laid the foundation for my life today. 

An experience from my college days that I fondly remember …
… A marketing project in which our team of five was tasked with setting up a fictional company and marketing our product. There was a lot of joking and laughter within the team, which led to some pretty creative results. 

These are the career goals I’m currently pursuing: …
… A few months ago, after taking a sabbatical abroad, I was given the opportunity to take over as head of human resources at a manufacturing company. After closely observing the situation, I’d like to focus on driving organizational development over the next few months. 

Over the next 5 years, I see myself professionally here: …
… I’m open to many possibilities, don’t have a specific career path in mind, and always make a conscious effort to grow as a person. 

These insights from my studies still guide me in my job today…
… Keeping an eye on the big picture, focusing on what’s essential, and prioritizing personality over technical expertise (e.g., recruiting). And:… I’ve still managed to make ends meet. 

These are the topics I'm passionate about: …
… managing employees during crises, as well as communication during economically challenging times (due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Russia). 

Here’s what I particularly benefited from in the distance learning program:
… Connections made through distance learning, a high degree of professional flexibility during my studies, and the ability to plan effectively thanks to fixed on-campus sessions. 

These skills and abilities are becoming increasingly important in my profession/industry …
… IT skills, a high degree of initiative, conflict management, empathy and sensitivity, creativity, and the ability to organize and manage oneself. 

My tips for the admissions process at FERNFH: …
… Think about what your time as a student might look like, what resources are available, how you can manage your time, and WHY you’re choosing this path. 

In my opinion, these are the qualities needed to successfully complete a distance learning program: …
… independence, the ability to work in a team, and discipline. 

My tips for first-year students and anyone interested in a degree program or course at FERNFH:

• Compare the FERNFH program or model with those of other providers.
• Talk to graduates and attend an evening event at FERNFH where the program will be presented. 

I'd like to add one more thing…
… I remember a summer day during vacation. I was sitting on the balcony in the sun, reading lecture notes that were so interesting that I even shared them with my friends.