Klara Regnauer, University of St. Gallen MBA Class of 2026
Age: 27
Hometown: Seeon-Seebruck, Germany
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München – Bachelor in Business Administration
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Consultant (2.5 years) – Strategy & Management Consulting – Porsche Consulting, Munich; Working Student (4 years) – Manufacturing & Family Business – Regnauer Fertigbau; GmbH & Co. KG Apprenticeship (2 years) – Industrial Business Administration – Biogen GmbH
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
After several years in consulting at Porsche, I wanted to expand my strategic and leadership toolkit and open new professional perspectives. The MBA is a chance to challenge myself, gain a broader international network, and rethink my career direction with more perspective.
Even though some said I was “too young,” it felt like the perfect moment—strong learning curve, high energy, and a clear vision. St. Gallen’s reputation and DACH focus fit exactly where I see my next professional step.
Why did you choose University of St. Gallen? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
St. Gallen combines academic excellence with real-world relevance—exactly what I was looking for. The professors are industry-experienced, the network is extraordinary, and the program focuses on real implementation rather than abstract theory. The proximity to top companies and leaders across Switzerland and Europe creates a learning environment that feels alive and pragmatic.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I bring an entrepreneurial mindset shaped by my family business and a results-driven consulting background from Porsche. I’m comfortable bridging strategy with execution and thrive in building motivated, high-performing teams. My mix of analytical thinking, empathy, and accountability helps drive projects that actually deliver impact.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I run a small DJ side business—consultant during the week, DJ on weekends. It’s my creative outlet and the perfect balance to a demanding job. Work hard, play hard isn’t just a saying for me—it’s how I stay sharp, creative, and grounded.
Post-MBA career interests:
Continue in consulting with a leadership trajectory focused on people development and transformation. Long term, I want to keep combining strategic work with entrepreneurial environments and leadership responsibility.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
– What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Just go for it. Interest in leadership and personal growth is highly appreciated at St. Gallen, so being authentic and showing curiosity pays off. Preparing the case interview in detail was also key—it gave me confidence in the final round.
– What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would look more closely at the program timeline in advance—understanding how the phases, electives, and exchange fit together helps to make the most of the flexibility later on.
– What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Preparing for the Executive Assessment. It was repetitive and not exactly inspiring, but staying consistent with a study plan and short daily sessions made it manageable.
What is your initial impression of the St. Gallen students/culture/community?
Incredibly driven yet grounded. Everyone is ambitious but collaborative—there’s no ego. The exposure to top leaders is impressive; CFOs and CEOs regularly visit campus, and those discussions feel authentic and inspiring.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
Family Business Club—perfect fit given my background and interest in entrepreneurial and ownership-driven companies. It’s a great platform to exchange perspectives with others who combine strategy and long-term business thinking.
What is one thing you have learned about St. Gallen that has surprised you?
How much emphasis is placed on self-reflection and soft skills. Leadership coaching, value exploration, and personal development are deeply integrated. Also, the close ties to Swiss companies go far beyond formal partnerships—they’re personal and built on real relationships.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Working on real consulting cases with clients, applying leadership frameworks in live settings, and testing new behaviors through coaching and feedback. I’m excited by how hands-on the program is—less about exams, more about becoming a well-rounded, self-aware leader.
