Changing universities in distance learning: Jens Schöngarth on his move to Allensbach University

From professional handball player to executive – and in parallel with a successful bachelor's degree: Jens Schöngarth has already mastered various challenges both professionally and personally. When he became increasingly dissatisfied with the development of his previous distance-learning university, he consciously decided to switch institutions.

In the interview, he talks about why he moved to Allensbach University and how he Recognition of his previous academic achievements has experienced and why, for him, above all personal support, direct communication, and practical study content were decisive.

Mr. Schöngarth, please briefly introduce yourself. What do you do today and what is your professional background?

My name is Jens Schöngarth. Currently, I am responsible for the Medical Business Unit at OSG GmbH. Prior to that, I worked as a professional handball player for 20 years. Already during my active sports career, it was important to me to address my professional future early on and consciously lay the foundation for a career after professional sports.

Why did you consider changing universities?

I previously studied at another German distance-learning university, but I intentionally choose not to name it. I do not think it is appropriate to speak negatively about another university in hindsight.

However, I became increasingly dissatisfied with the developments there. In particular, I felt that the communication and support were inadequate, and from my perspective, some of the course content was no longer up to date. Therefore, I looked for an alternative that better suits my personal and professional requirements.

Did you have any concerns before changing universities?

I didn't really have any major concerns before the switch. I had already received very positive feedback from acquaintances about the student support at Allensbach University. That gave me a good feeling right from the start and made my decision to switch much easier.

How did you experience the transition to Allensbach University?

I found the transition to be very professional and structured. What I found particularly positive was that the review and recognition of my previous academic achievements were carried out transparently and within a customer-friendly timeframe. The entire process was very well organized and made the transition much easier for me.

What was different about Allensbach University?

For me, personal communication and direct interaction made a big difference in particular. I experienced the collaboration between students and student support as very respectful and solution-oriented. The exchange with the professors was also an important plus for me.

Furthermore, the modern and practical course content as well as the up-to-date academic literature convinced me. Especially for someone who has heavy professional commitments at the same time, good support makes a decisive difference.

How did your career path continue after graduation and what do you do today?

I am still working in my role as Business Unit Leader at OSG GmbH. At the same time, I am incredibly happy and proud of the path I have taken together with Allensbach University.

Completing my bachelor's degree alongside a long-standing professional sports career and a management position in an industrial company was a major challenge. All the more important to me was a reliable and professional exchange with the university. The support and guidance contributed significantly to my ability to successfully pursue this path.

What would you recommend to people who are thinking about changing universities themselves?

I can only recommend the Allensbach University to anyone thinking about changing universities. In my view, the personal support, communication, and modern learning content are outstanding.