What it was like to be a charter student

This article is part of KLU's anniversary magazine celebrating our 10th anniversary (see page 17). Have a look at the whole magazine.

Why did you choose the newly founded KLU back in 2010?

I remember Sönke Albers telling us that we were all very brave—and weren’t afraid to take risks. I found that very exciting, because I’d never looked at it that way before. I only had a few doubts before getting started, when it was time to pay the tuition. Back in 2010, the only thing you could find on Google Maps was a large construction site. So I drove to Hamburg to see for myself whether or not there was really a university there. (laughs) I chose the program because of its global orientation. KLU was also the only university in Germany to offer a program with this “supply chain perspective.”

A new town, new university, new people—and you were one of very few students: what was the atmosphere like in your first weeks at KLU?

What was so unique was that everything was so small and intimate. Matriculation took place in the Großer Rathaussaal, and each of us received a certificate from Klaus-Michael Kühne himself. It made you feel very special. Back then, the university was all on the same story of the building, so we all knew one another. Professors from around the globe came to our group’s classroom—we only had one.

Back then, did you feel like you and your classmates were helping “build” your new university—and helping to decide how it would develop in the future?

Yes, we definitely felt that we could help shape the university. Back then we were just one group, all in the same program; today there are various programs to choose from. From the outset, KLU wanted to hear our opinions and included us in its development. In one class, Fabian Berger asked us pointblank: If you were in charge, how would you shape the university? There were interviews, feedback sheets—and our input produced direct effects, at least in the following year’s group.

If you could do it over again, would you still choose to study at KLU?

Yes, absolutely. The spirit, the support, the massive network: you grow immensely with the university, and in your own right. Even eight years ago, KLU’s standing was an excellent asset for alumni. My birthday wishes for KLU? Stay just the way you are—and keep growing, but never more than necessary; only as much as you can without compromising quality.