When Lennard Liebig first began exploring on-line programs, he wasn’t chasing a diploma—he was merely seeking to develop. With a background in worldwide enterprise, he dove into subjects like Python, statistics, and analytics, all supplied on-line by Coursera. That curiosity finally led him to the Online Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship University Certificate supplied by HEC Paris on Coursera.

What started as 5 foundational programs shortly grew to become one thing rather more. As he progressed by the certificates program, Lennard was capable of switch the credit he was incomes towards a full grasp’s diploma. That chance set him on a brand new path—one that may result in the net MSc in Innovation and Entrepreneurship at HEC Paris, the place he’s now a part of the Spring 2025 graduating class.

Initially from Germany and now residing in Brussels, Lennard wasn’t simply studying—he was laying the groundwork for one thing greater.

🚀 1. From Coursera to Campus: How It All Started

“I used to be doing quite a lot of on-line programs again in 2020 and 2021,” Lennard recollects. “Python, statistics, analytical considering—no matter I may discover. I used to be already in search of one thing stackable and extra long-term.”

That’s when he got here throughout HEC Paris’s On-line Innovation Administration and Entrepreneurship College Certificates on Coursera. Via onerous work and dedication, Lennard accomplished the rigorous foundational programs, incomes a certificates and, extra importantly, eligibility to switch these credit into the net MSc program at HEC Paris.

“I knew I both needed to do an MBA or pursue a program with a extra entrepreneurship-focused path. The thought of constructing one thing from scratch actually appealed to me.”

In 2022, Lennard utilized and was accepted into the complete grasp’s program. Due to his prior coursework, he was capable of soar straight into the second half, targeted on project-based studying and thesis writing.

🛠️ 2. Actual-World Studying and Staff-Based mostly Innovation

One of many most important issues that offered Lennard on the HEC program was its hands-on, utilized focus.

“I used to be wanting so as to add a selected dimension targeted on sensible software and enterprise creation. HEC, as one of many main enterprise colleges worldwide, is famend for its school and ecosystem that empowers folks to launch their startup concepts – it’s about actively constructing and testing ideas, transferring from principle to execution.”

His group challenge staff—made up of pros from London, Germany, and Peru—collaborated on a startup idea, making use of what they’d discovered in real-time. From constructing out MVPs to pitching to actual enterprise capitalists, the expertise was in contrast to any conventional classroom setup.

“It was energizing to work with like-minded folks. And there’s an opportunity to take these concepts additional, past the course. That’s what makes this program particular.”

🎓 3. Discovering Steadiness and Flexibility in a Yr of Large Modifications

The previous two years have been a whirlwind for Lennard—each professionally and personally.

In October 2023, his daughter Elisa was born amid the examination interval. In November, he was promoted to guide the Course of & Evaluation staff at his present employer, Mobilexpense. On the similar time, he was nonetheless deep into the grasp’s program, tackling coursework, tasks, and his thesis targeted on decarbonization within the oil business—a subject he’s lengthy been considering.

“It was a difficult journey,” he admits. “I used to be juggling working full-time and altering diapers, all whereas navigating a full-time diploma schedule. There have been undoubtedly moments the place I assumed, ‘Why am I doing this once more?’ However my fiancé supported me the entire means. And in the long run, it paid off.”

Lennard submitted his thesis in December 2024 and lately he obtained his diploma “with distinction.” He’s already planning to attend the in-person commencement ceremony in June.

Regardless of the occasional have to steadiness priorities, Lennard says this system introduced construction, resilience, and a renewed sense of objective. “I acquired up early within the morning to check and I studied on the weekends. It actually makes you understand how treasured time is. However on the finish of the day, it’s rewarding and you are feeling completed. And that’s how I really feel proper now. I’m pleased with it. And I’m actually pleased with the place I’m at.”

💬 4. Lennard’s Recommendation: Play the Lengthy Recreation

When requested what recommendation he’d give to future college students, Lennard doesn’t sugarcoat it:

“It is advisable be dedicated. It’s not such as you take a 5-week course and it’s completed and dusted. It’s a long-term dedication. In the event you’re working full-time, speak to your employer. Whether or not they sponsor you or not, you will have conflicts with work at instances.”

He additionally emphasizes the significance of staying linked to friends, professors, and the broader HEC group.

“Use the assets. Schedule suggestions periods. Be part of webinars. Attain out to alumni. Be ready to current your concepts to precise VC’s. You’ll actually get a view of the actual world, and that’s the fantastic thing about the college and this system itself. It’s eye opening.

And for these with entrepreneurial ambitions?

“You probably have a startup concept or perhaps a buyer ache level in thoughts, this program will aid you convey it to life.”

And for these standing on the crossroads of profession and curiosity, his message is obvious:

“Comply with your ardour. Keep resilient. And keep in mind—it’s all price it in the long run.”