Teachers with vigour and competence

After his second apprenticeship as an installer, he also realised ‘that I liked the work, but that it wasn't quite enough,’ he says. As a software technician for building automation systems, he now looks after ventilation and cooling systems in large building complexes.

‘I knew the UAS in Pinkafeld from hearsay and had been toying with the idea of studying there for some time.’ The offer of a free, one-year preparatory course came at just the right time.

In terms of content, the course was also an ideal preparation for his current Bachelor's degree programme in Building Technology and Building Automation. He has now already completed the second semester and plans to continue with a Master's programme at the Burgenland University of Applied Sciences.

Despite the good service provided by the university, it is not possible without a lot of discipline, he says: ‘You need a strong will to pull it off alongside your job. Nothing works without self-motivation.’ He is particularly enthusiastic about his lecturers, who share their knowledge with the students with great vigour and even more expertise.

His parents are also pleased that Markus has finally managed to complete his A-levels and is now studying. ‘Although they have to admit that it's practical to have a tradesman in the house,’ smiles Markus.