From Student to Programme Director

Chen Yang is an inspiring and seasoned expert in international educational management. With a solid background in tourism management and intercultural communication, he brings a unique combination of academic insight and practical experience to his role as Programme Director for the IMC Krems Transnational Programmes (TPP) in Uzbekistan and China. His dedication to advancing global educational initiatives, along with his vision for the development of the TPP programmes, reflects his passion for academic excellence and international collaboration.

Can you tell us about your professional background? Where do your roots lie, and how did your journey lead you to become the Programme Director for the TPP programmes at your alma mater?

I am originally from Inner Mongolia, China, and my journey with IMC Krems began in 2014, right after I graduated from high school. My first encounter with IMC was through its transnational programme in Sanya, China. The university’s focus on internationalisation, innovation, diversity, and high-quality education left a lasting impression on me, and I knew I wanted to pursue my master degree here. That decision has proven to be one of the best I’ve made, as it eventually led me to a career, I am passionate about at IMC.

What are your visions and goals for the TPP programmes? In what direction would you like to develop them further?

While we have many successful transnational programmes, I’ve observed that we are not fully capitalising on their potential. Each programme tends to operate independently, without much cross-collaboration. My vision is to dismantle these silos and encourage greater interaction between the programmes, which would enable us to unlock even more opportunities. I would like to see more synergy and innovation across all programmes, so we can create an ecosystem in which each programme supports the others, making the whole stronger than the sum of its parts.

What makes the IMC TPP programmes or locations for which you are responsible special?

What distinguishes these programmes is the unique blend of Austrian educational excellence with local expertise in countries such as Uzbekistan and China. We bring "Austrian Quality" directly to our students' doorsteps, allowing them to receive a world-class education without needing to relocate to Europe. This fusion of global standards with local adaptation creates a rich and dynamic learning environment that is difficult to find elsewhere.

What long-term developments do you envision for the programme? What would you like to achieve in the coming years?

We must acknowledge a reality: the economic conditions and educational infrastructure in our partner countries differ from those in Austria, and many students face financial challenges that make studying abroad difficult. This is why our transnational programmes are so crucial—we bring top-tier Austrian education to their home countries, removing the need for costly overseas travel. While there is always room for improvement, my long-term goal is to close any remaining quality gaps, ensuring that our international students receive the same standard of education as those at IMC Krems.

What motivated you to pursue a career in the university sector? How has your career evolved over time?

My initial professional experiences were in the hospitality and tourism sectors, but I soon realised that my true passion lay in education. The ability to shape young minds and make a global impact through learning has always excited me. Over time, I transitioned into academia, which has allowed me to combine my love for education with my desire to foster international collaboration.

How do you approach collaboration with your students? What do you hope to impart to them on their professional journey, and what do you gain from working with them?

As a former international student, I deeply understand the mindset and challenges students face, particularly those in our transnational programmes. I approach them with empathy and openness, striving to create an environment in which they feel heard and supported. I aim to instill the importance of global thinking and adaptability, both of which are crucial in today’s world. At the same time, I learn a great deal from their fresh perspectives and energy, which continually inspire me and keep me attuned to the evolving world.

What do you particularly value about IMC Krems and working with your colleagues? What characterises your international work environment?

What I value most about IMC Krems is that many of my colleagues were once my professors. It is incredibly rewarding to work alongside those who mentored me and to have their support as I advance in my career. Beyond that, IMC fosters a family-like atmosphere where collaboration and mutual respect are deeply ingrained. The diversity and shared passion in our international work environment make it a truly inspiring and fulfilling place to be.

What inspires and motivates you in your professional and personal life?

I am driven by the transformative power of education. Knowing that my work helps shape the futures of students around the world keeps me motivated every day. Personally, travel and exploration inspire me. Experiencing new cultures and perspectives fuels my creativity and serves as a constant reminder of the endless opportunities for learning and growth.