Three questions for Dr. Hartmut Rösch

1. Please briefly introduce yourself and your current job.

Since 2010 I am the head of the HdM Startup Center and coordinate the numerous activities and projects of our teams. My main occupation at the moment is the (hopefully) constructive and motivating exchange with my 15 colleagues in the Startup Center, project acquisition and management, and the task of maintaining communication to the HdM mothership.

2. How did you get involved in entrepreneurship?

I was self-employed with a small agency for about 10 years until I "slipped in" to the HdM via teaching assignments and projects. A little more than 10 years ago, the demand for consulting services by students increased more and more ("How do I write an invoice?", "What does the tax office actually do?", "What is a VAT number?" etc.), so that we set up a start-up center for students through a project of the Ministry of Economics BaWü. With resounding success.

3. What tip would you give to students who are enthusiastic about founding a company, who are currently thinking about founding a company or who have already taken the first steps towards self-employment?                            

"Do it all or not at all!" For a certain period of time, such as during your studies, part-time self-employment is a feasible model. You are secured and can try out projects without getting a bloody nose. But if you want your own existence to be successful in the long run, you have to concentrate 100 percent on your project. And one more thing: "Get advice and help!" Almost every university now has counseling facilities, and they really do have professionals working there who know their stuff. And - I almost forgot - "Even if things don't go so well: Don't lose your good humor!"