While one fellow student will soon launch his own satellite into space and greet Elon Musk in passing, another will soon set off for London to start a career in investment banking. And Nicolas? He is currently the student body's vice president and wants to found a cybersecurity company. Here, the bachelor's student shares insights into what has led him and his fellow students to their success stories – even before they graduate.
What does the University of St.Gallen (HSG) stand for?
For me, HSG and especially the School of Computer Science stands for academic excellence, innovative research, and personal development. In my opinion, every student who comes to this university brings something unique with them, whether it be through personal experiences or individual goals. HSG offers students the opportunity to reach their full potential.
What makes the Bachelor in Computer Science at HSG special?
There are many things that make this programme unique. But if I had to highlight one particular aspect, it would undoubtedly be our community. Nowhere else have I felt as at home as I do in this programme, which everyone here just calls ‘BCS’. Every voice is heard and every idea is considered.
This open dialogue is particularly formative for our interactions with the lecturers. From the teaching assistants to the dean, we all know each other by our first names. Since the first year, it's been a common thing for us to drop by Simon's department, that is Professor Simon Mayer, the dean of the school and chair for interaction- and communication-based systems, and asking the faculty members countless questions about their research. The same applies to Johannes' office. Professor Schöning heads the Chair of Human and Computer Interaction, and we study next door, using all the lab equipment that he provides us with, which is great for experimenting.
Marcel, Dr. Marcel Cahenzli, the administrative director of BCS, is always willing to lend an ear and takes time to help us with our studies. He is always open to feedback and suggestions that could improve our studies and listens carefully to our ideas. These small interactions in particular have shown me time and again how committed everyone is at the school to helping students. This became particularly evident when the entire school came together to found the ACM Chapter Uni St.Gallen, the first student association for computer scientists and those interested in computer science here at HSG.
Why would you recommend the programme?
One of my colleagues is building a satellite in the laboratory that will be launched into orbit in 2026, another runs a company that optimises capital market operations, and a third has just accepted a position at a large investment bank in London – and that is despite the fact that none of them have yet graduated.
We started out as 30 students and today each of us has an impressive track record. This is why I can say with conviction that this course of study is definitely worthwhile.
What personal successes have you experienced through your studies?
During my time at HSG, I have gained more experience than I ever could have hoped for. From winning the StartWeek prize four times to organising the first augmented reality fashion show in Europe and being elected Vice President of the SHSG student union– these experiences have enriched and shaped my time at university.
But nothing is more valuable than the friendships I have built over the years and the precious memories I have made with these people.
What insights have you gained for your life?
No matter what you do in life, it's always more fun when you share it with friends.
How has the programme changed you?
Before my studies, I believed that success is only defined by achieving great goals. I focused exclusively on the end results. Through the programme, I learned that the journey itself is just as important as the destination. Now, I value the continuous learning process and daily development more than just achieving specific goals. This change showed me that real success lies in constant growth and daily effort.
For example, I am not just focusing on getting my bachelor's degree as quickly as possible; I want to make the most of my time at this university along the way. Whether it is as a teaching assistant in algorithms and data structures, through my involvement in the SHSG or through various side projects where I can contribute to the computer science community here at HSG.
How do you see your future and your next professional steps?
At some point, I would like to start my own cybersecurity company. However, I am currently focusing on my role as Vice President of the SHSG. I hope that I can achieve something positive for the approximately 10,000 students at HSG this year.