When Lennard Liebig initially began his venture into online courses, he wasn’t pursuing a degree—his aim was simply to expand his knowledge. Possessing a background in international business, he explored subjects such as Python, statistics, and analytics, all available on Coursera. This inquisitiveness eventually brought him to the Online Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship University Certificate provided by HEC Paris on Coursera.
What started as five essential courses soon evolved into something greater. As he advanced in the certificate program, Lennard could utilize the credits he accumulated towards a complete master’s degree. This opportunity opened up a new direction for him—leading to the online MSc in Innovation and Entrepreneurship at HEC Paris, where he is currently a member of the Spring 2025 graduating cohort.
Originally hailing from Germany and now residing in Brussels, Lennard wasn’t merely acquiring knowledge—he was establishing the foundation for a more significant endeavor.
1. From Coursera to Campus: The Start of It All
“During 2020 and 2021, I engaged in a multitude of online courses,” Lennard reminisces. “Python, statistics, analytical reasoning—anything I could locate. I was already in search of something stackable and more enduring.”
That’s when he discovered the HEC Paris’s Online Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship University Certificate on Coursera. Through perseverance and commitment, Lennard completed the demanding foundational courses, obtaining a certificate and, crucially, the eligibility to transfer those credits into the online MSc program at HEC Paris.
“I was aware that I either wanted to pursue an MBA or engage in a program that leaned towards entrepreneurship. The thought of creating something from the ground up greatly fascinated me.”
In 2022, Lennard applied and was accepted into the complete master’s program. Owing to his prior studies, he could directly enter the latter half, concentrating on project-based learning and thesis composition.
2. Practical Learning and Collaborative Innovation
A key factor that intrigued Lennard regarding the HEC program was its emphasis on practical, applied learning.
“I sought to integrate a particular aspect that emphasized real-world application and venture creation. HEC, regarded as one of the foremost business schools globally, is celebrated for its faculty and environment that encourages individuals to develop their startup concepts—it’s about actively creating and evaluating ideas, transitioning from theory to practice.”
His project team—comprised of professionals from London, Germany, and Peru—collaborated on a startup proposal, employing what they had learned in real-time. From developing MVPs to pitching to actual venture capitalists, the experience was distinct from any conventional classroom environment.
“It was invigorating to collaborate with individuals who shared similar interests. And there’s an opportunity to advance those ideas further, beyond the coursework. That’s what renders this program exceptional.”
3. Achieving Balance and Flexibility Amidst Significant Changes
The last two years have been a whirlwind for Lennard—both in his career and personal life.
In October 2023, his daughter Elisa was born during the examination phase. In November, he was promoted to lead the Process & Analysis team at his current company, Mobilexpense. Simultaneously, he was fully immersed in the master’s program, engaging with coursework, projects, and a thesis centered on decarbonization within the oil sector—a subject he has long been passionate about.
“It was a demanding journey,” he confesses. “I was balancing full-time work and changing diapers while managing a full-time degree timetable. There were certainly times I questioned, ‘Why am I doing this again?’ But my fiancé supported me throughout. And ultimately, it was worth it.”
Lennard submitted his thesis in December 2024 and recently obtained his diploma “with distinction.” He’s already planning to attend the in-person graduation ceremony in June.
Despite occasionally needing to balance priorities, Lennard asserts that the program provided structure, fortitude, and a renewed sense of direction. “I rose early in the mornings to study and dedicated my weekends to it. It genuinely emphasizes how valuable time is. However, at the end of the day, it’s fulfilling and leaves you feeling accomplished. And that’s precisely how I feel now. I take pride in it. And I’m genuinely content with my current situation.”
4. Lennard’s Advice: Embrace the Long-Term Vision
When queried about the advice he would offer to prospective students, Lennard is straightforward:
“You must possess commitment. It’s not merely about completing a 5-week course and moving on. It’s a long-term endeavor. If you’re employed full-time, communicate with your employer. Be it sponsorship or not, conflicts with your job may arise.”
He also underscores the significance of maintaining connections with peers, instructors, and the broader HEC network.
“Utilize the resources. Organize feedback sessions. Participate in webinars. Connect with alumni. Prepare to present your concepts to real VCs. This gives you an authentic glimpse of the world, and that’s the essence of the university and the program itself. It’s enlightening.”
For those with entrepreneurial aspirations?
“If you have a startup concept or a customer issue in mind, this program will assist you in actualizing it.”
And for those at the crossroads of career and curiosity, his message is unambiguous:
“Pursue your passion. Maintain resilience. And keep in mind—it’s all ultimately worth it.”
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