For Webster Vienna Student Mathilde Samson, Campus Engagement Pays Off

Mathilde Samson is one of the most familiar faces on Webster Vienna Private University’s (WVPU) campus this semester. 

“I feel like when people ask me if I want to participate in something on campus I say, Yes, let’s do that!’ and it always turns out to be a great experience,” she said.

Originally from Copenhagen, Denmark, Samson began her Webster studies in Thailand before transferring to WVPU. She is now studying Management with an emphasis on International Business. As a Webster Vienna Training Scholarship recipient for the marketing team, she is often seen videographing Webster Vienna’s many events, guest lectures and workshops.

“When I moved to Vienna, I did my best to get involved in student life right away," Samson said. "I joined the SGA (Student Government Association) and I am currently the assistant public relations officer for the association. Another thing that we do in Vienna is the LEADS program, which is a lot of fun. Members have a lot of opportunities to get to meet new students and faculty."

The WebsterLEADS Leadership Certificate program provides students with organization, leadership and teamwork experience. Samson is also the vice president of the volleyball club, which she said is great way to meet fellow students outside of the classroom, and a member of the tennis club.

“Even though it sounds like more work to be part of these clubs and various initiatives, being involved actually provides students with a lot of energy and new perspective. It makes life at Webster Vienna more than just going to classes.”

As a member of the Webster Vienna Working Group on Equal Opportunities (WGEO), Samson works with other community members to combat gender discrimination as well as discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, religion or conviction, age or sexual orientation by university governing bodies. She encourages future students to follow her lead to be involved in student government, clubs, sports teams and other campus offerings.

“When you start at Webster Vienna, throw yourself out there," Samson said. "Go out of your comfort zone and the more you do it, the more comfortable you become in many situations. You’ll get really good at connecting with people, networking and all these skills that you don’t learn in class.”

After graduating in May, Samson will pursue her masters in sports management in Murcia, Spain.