February 13, 2026 · 40 years of HWZ
Two degree programmes, one shared path at HWZ
For 40 years, HWZ has supported individuals through intensive phases of learning and life. For Simon Mollet and Patrick Jungi, the university also became a shared point of reference. During their bachelor’s and EMBA studies, they experienced two distinct academic worlds that had a lasting impact on their daily lives, their relationship, and their perspective on learning and practice. This is a story about support, mutual understanding, and how continuing education can also bring couples closer together.
This article is part of the content series marking the 40th anniversary of HWZ. Through this series, we aim to showcase the diversity of stories from our university, as well as the topics and individuals that have shaped, and continue to shape, HWZ.
You were already a couple when you both decided to study at HWZ – although in different degree programmes. How did that come about?
Patrick Jungi: Simon began his bachelor’s degree in 2020, at which point we had been together for almost two years. During the pandemic, I had the opportunity to develop further at Hiltl AG. In order to fulfil the new role of co-managing director in line with my expectations, I wanted to continue my education alongside my work. I therefore enrolled on the EMBA in 2021. As a result, we both studied at HWZ at the same time for about a year and a half.
Two degree programmes, two worlds: Simon in Bachelor in Business Communications HWZ, Patrick in Executive MBA – General Management HWZ. How different – or similar – were your experiences of studying at HWZ?
We found this situation amusing. Both of us independently chose HWZ because it offers an excellent balance between a demanding professional life and academic study. Naturally, studying together at the same university creates an additional connection. However, the subjects of our degree programmes were quite different, even though we had some of the same lecturers in certain modules. Due to our different attendance days, we did not see each other often at HWZ and therefore discussed our studies mostly at home.
What did your daily life together look like during this time? Were there any routines, agreements or moments that helped you to balance your studies, work and relationship?
Simon Mollet: During this period, travelling became even more important than usual. It helped us to forget everyday life and to plan something unrelated to our studies or work. The anticipation itself was a great motivation – especially in 2023, which was the most intense year. That year, Patrick completed his EMBA and I began my final semester. In the summer, we travelled to the Faroe Islands and stayed in a small Airbnb right by the sea, where we were able to truly unwind. That same year, I celebrated my 30th birthday, and I had been planning a big trip for quite some time. This took us to India and was once again perfect for clearing my head by immersing ourselves in a completely different world before I devoted myself to my bachelor's thesis.
In what ways did you support each other, even though you were working in completely different fields?
Patrick: By coordinating who would study in which part of the flat and when, who would be at university, and who could use the home office, we managed well. 😉 We also agreed in advance when studies would take priority over outings or holidays, and when someone would not be available. This was especially important during the period of writing the bachelor’s or master’s thesis. Good communication and consideration are essential. Of course, it was a great advantage that we were both studying at the same time. So it was clear from the outset that there would be intensive phases during which studying would take priority.
Even though you were not on the same degree programme: were there any points of contact at HWZ that brought you together – for example, people, places or formative moments?
Patrick: Academic work was a recurring topic in our everyday conversations. Personally, in my current role as managing director of Hiltl AG, I find it extremely important to understand how knowledge is created. This is essential for questioning things critically, arguing on the basis of facts, and making sound decisions.
Simon: When Patrick was at Darden during project week, he suddenly sent a photo with Bernhard Schweizer, my programme director. They were sitting next to each other at the welcome dinner and somehow got talking because neither of them likes drinking Pinot Noir. During the conversation, Patrick discovered that Bernhard was my programme director. It really is a small world. 😊
When you look back on this intensive period today, how did studying at the same time affect your relationship?
Simon: There were intense moments, and we had to learn not to lose sight of each other during those times. Our shared free time became increasingly important to us, and we tried to spend our weekends together enjoying quality time.
Patrick: And of course, we had one more thing in common. Being part of the same university creates a bond. Simon will soon begin his MSc in Business Administration at HWZ. Once he has completed it, we will have both been enrolled at HWZ for practically the entire duration of our relationship.
A shared moment
With reference to their favourite photograph, Simon and Patrick explain why travel means more to them than simply taking a break, and how this moment is connected to their time at HWZ.
What does this moment mean to you personally?
Simon: This was my first weekend trip after the intense writing phase of my bachelor’s thesis in April 2024. A weekend to unwind and simply drift through this wonderful city. The photo was taken at Reffen Street Food in Copenhagen – one of my favourite places in the world, where tourists and locals come together at the weekend.
What connection do you still have to your time at HWZ?
Patrick: During our time at university, Simon visited Copenhagen at least once a year – whether it was for a stag do with friends or with me. Over time, Copenhagen became our favourite city. The relaxed Danish way of life and their pragmatism always helped us to feel grounded, even if it was just for a weekend.
To what extent do you still benefit today – professionally or personally – from your respective studies at HWZ? Is there anything from that time that you have «taken away» from each other?
Patrick: Yes, fact-based discussion and, perhaps even more importantly, greater respect for one another. We both know how much effort is required for one’s studies, how intensively one must work for the diplomas, and how much one has to adapt their life.
What advice would you give to couples who are considering starting a degree or further education at HWZ alongside their relationship and professional commitments?
Simon: It is an intense period during which you learn a great deal – not only at HWZ, but also in and about your relationship. Set aside a few weekends just for yourselves, free from study commitments. Whether it is to tidy up the flat or to go on a weekend trip, make sure to reserve this time. Calendars quickly fill up with appointments, and before you know it, there is little time left alongside work and study.
Patrick: That’s right. Even during this intense period, make sure to set your priorities; otherwise, everything else will take a back seat to work and study. My advice: try to take things a little more lightly. It’s okay not to be perfect. 😉
In conclusion: What should HWZ continue to be known for in the future?
Simon: For excellent lecturers and for being the leading university of applied sciences in business.
Patrick: Continuing to uphold our strong reputation by teaching research-based knowledge in an application-oriented way. Today, there are far too many graduates who possess theoretical knowledge but are unable to translate it into practice or apply it effectively. This benefits no one. Thanks to our lecturers, who are also active in the private sector, we achieve precisely this transfer, which represents the true added value of our degree programmes.
