Taking detours broadens your knowledge of the area

Laura Schnedl, Graduate of the Bachelor’s Program in Disability & Diversity Studies

During my time as a student, I realized that there is great strength in most weaknesses.

According to Laura, this quote by Kurt Tucholsky best describes her career path.

Laura completed various training programs in the health and social services sectors. These ranged from a certification as a nursing assistant to a degree as a certified social worker specializing in disability services. Her professional career began by supporting people with disabilities in a basic care group. There, she was able to optimally combine her nursing and social work skills.

For three summers, she led the summer program for children with disabilities, managed the team, and organized the daily schedule and activities. In addition, she worked as a leisure assistant and provided family respite care. Alongside her professional work at a facility, she volunteered in various regional projects, such as teaching German to people with refugee backgrounds. Since Laura wanted to learn more about disability, participation, and social conditions, she decided to pursue a part-time Bachelor’s Degree in Disability & Diversity Studies. Thanks to her training as a certified social worker, she was able to earn an Academic Degree without having a high school diploma.

Since Laura has suffered from two chronic illnesses since her youth, she long believed that they would make her life more difficult. During her studies, however, she developed a new perspective that has brought about lasting positive changes in her life and her professional outlook. “BE ABLE and UNABLE – those are two phrases I’ll definitely take with me,” she says.

After completing her Bachelor’s Degree, she immediately decided to pursue the Master’s Program in Social Work: Developing & Shaping, which she is currently completing at CU Carinthian University of Applied Sciences. She also began working at a center for women and girls, where Laura continues to work today. There, she is responsible for counseling on various topics, a funded project on women’s health, and school workshops on violence and moral courage.

When asked why she would recommend the Program, Laura replies: “The content, which addresses complex social issues, is more relevant than ever. The multidisciplinary approach provides a solid foundation for bringing diverse perspectives into relevant discourses.” Isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic was particularly challenging for her, as she belonged to a high-risk group. Thanks to the support she received from the Program and the faculty, Laura was able to overcome this crisis.

Her advice to future students is: “Pursue your goals and find people who will support you along the way.”