"Use your studies to orientate yourself and find your strengths, weaknesses and interests!"

Our alumna Diana zur Löwen (Bachelor-BWL) is a successful influencer since 2012. Furthermore, as co-founder of the innovation consultancy CoDesign Factory, she is a consultant for the next generation of young entrepreneurs*. She is also involved in politics and Europe.

We talked to her about her commitment to the European elections and about her studies at the University of Cologne. Furthermore, she gives valuable tips to our students.

Dear Diana, your commitment to the theme of the European elections was very present. How did you get involved and how can this theme be linked and marketed with all your other themes? What is your résumé after the elections?

I realized that I myself lived in my "social media bubble" and hardly knew what was happening around me. I wanted to change that. I actively took time out to listen to political podcasts or to listen to the morning news while putting on make-up. These small steps awakened my interest and understanding for Europe more and more, so that I wanted to bring Europe closer to my community together with the EP.

You are active on many platforms and social networks in different ways. To what extent does your business studies help you to deal with the different requirements that arise from the different platforms and social networks?

The studies helped me to learn to organize myself, to create everything. The IHK project manager training also helped me.
I was also allowed to meet great, inspiring people, but it was more the university environment rather than the lectures that left their mark.

Maybe we will be able to make business studies more practical in the future or integrate more on the subject of entrepreneurship. How I would have loved to learn and implement how to write a good business plan!

What are the most important insights, contents and experiences that you took with you from your studies?

Network! I have noticed how important it is to fail and to dare to try something new.

To what extent did the topic "networking" already play a role during your studies?

One person can change your life a lot or serve as a mentor.
That's incredible! That's why you should always have the courage to address exciting people at events and to keep up contacts.
Also show these people what you can offer them!

Did you start your studies with a certain intention?

I knew that my influencer job is very practically oriented. That's why I also wanted to understand the theory as an entrepreneur.

You are very active on the subject of women empowerment. Do you have any advice for young women who want a career similar to yours?

Have courage to be yourself! Easier said than done!
And: A strong handshake never hurts.

Finally, do you have three tips? What would you like to share with our students?

- Get involved in student organizations.
- Gain practical experience during your studies. You don't have to finish in six semesters.
- Use your studies to orientate yourself and find your strengths, weaknesses and interests!

Thank you very much for the interview!
The questions were asked by Lorraine Hoffmann