This prize, awarded by the Association Réalités et Relations Internationales (ARRI), recognises the academic and intercultural excellence of graduates of bi- and trinational degree programmes. It also underlines the importance of Franco-German dialogue and international cooperation - not only in higher education, but also for future careers in a global environment.
The DFH plays a central role in promoting young talent by creating international networks and facilitating innovative projects. The award ceremony also provided a valuable opportunity for intercultural exchange - an aspect that is just as formative for the graduates as their academic careers.
Philipp Schiberna, a graduate of OTH Regensburg and the Excelia Business School, is one of the 2025 award winners. He was honoured for his outstanding thesis ‘Cultural diversity as a success factor in international project management’ as part of the International Business Management degree programme. His work epitomises Excelia's core values: international openness, academic excellence and intercultural commitment.
For Philipp Schiberna, the decision to study at OTH Regensburg was a conscious choice. In particular, the opportunity to complete an international degree programme with the then European Business course (now International Business Management) was incentive enough - a decision that, looking back, he would make again at any time.
He particularly remembers the excellent learning atmosphere at OTH Regensburg. In addition to his dedicated and friendly fellow students, he particularly appreciated the practical teaching provided by the professors. A particular highlight of his degree programme was the opportunity to spend two years of his Bachelor's degree abroad.
However, the double degree programme at two universities and the numerous stays abroad also brought challenges. The language and cultural barriers, as well as the constant familiarisation with a new place of residence and the associated hurdles, should be emphasised. Schiberna moved four times during his studies: from Regensburg to La Rochelle, then to Marseille, on to the USA and finally back to Regensburg. Despite all the challenges, he sees these experiences as valuable enrichment that have helped him enormously both personally and professionally. Especially as the topic of intercultural competence fascinated him so much that he ended up writing his final thesis on the subject.
Philipp Schiberna is currently completing his Master's degree in International Management/CEMS in Vienna with a strong focus on management consultancy. After graduating, he plans to work in this field - it is not yet clear exactly in which country. But through his time at OTH Regensburg, he has learnt to constantly embrace new places and challenges.
