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 matters like Python, statistics, and analytics, all provided on-line by means of Coursera. That curiosity finally led him to the On-line Innovation Administration and Entrepreneurship College Certificates provided by HEC Paris on Coursera.
What started as 5 foundational programs rapidly grew to become one thing way more. As he progressed by means of 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 might 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 plenty of on-line programs again in 2020 and 2021,” Lennard recollects. “Python, statistics, analytical pondering—no matter I may discover. I used to be already on the lookout for 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 arduous 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 concept of constructing one thing from scratch actually appealed to me.”
In 2022, Lennard utilized and was accepted into the complete grasp’s program. Because of his prior coursework, he was capable of bounce straight into the second half, centered on project-based studying and thesis writing.
🛠️ 2. Actual-World Studying and Group-Primarily based Innovation
One of many most important issues that bought Lennard on the HEC program was its hands-on, utilized focus.
“I used to be wanting so as to add a selected dimension centered on sensible utility and enterprise creation. HEC, as one of many main enterprise faculties worldwide, is famend for its college and ecosystem that empowers individuals to launch their startup concepts – it’s about actively constructing and testing ideas, transferring from concept to execution.”
His group venture group—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 individuals. And there’s an opportunity to take these concepts additional, past the course. That’s what makes this program particular.”
🎓 3. Discovering Stability 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 group at his present employer, Mobilexpense. On the identical time, he was nonetheless deep into the grasp’s program, tackling coursework, initiatives, and his thesis centered on decarbonization within the oil trade—a subject he’s lengthy been excited by.
“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 positively moments the place I assumed, ‘Why am I doing this once more?’ However my fiancé supported me the entire manner. And in the long run, it paid off.”
Lennard submitted his thesis in December 2024 and just 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 goal. “I received up early within the morning to check and I studied on the weekends. It actually makes you understand how valuable time is. However on the finish of the day, it’s rewarding and you’re feeling completed. And that’s how I really feel proper now. I’m happy with it. And I’m actually pleased with the place I’m at.”
💬 4. Lennard’s Recommendation: Play the Lengthy Sport
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. When you’re working full-time, speak to your employer. Whether or not they sponsor you or not, you’ll 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 a 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? “If in case you have a startup concept or perhaps a buyer ache level in thoughts, this program will aid you deliver it to life.”
And for these standing on the crossroads of profession and curiosity, his message is obvious: “Observe your ardour. Keep resilient. And bear in mind—it’s all price it in the long run.”
