Success in Talent Development
Student from Erfurt selected for the DRV Young Talents Programme 2026
Julia Loos is studying for a dual degree in Tourism Management at IU and has been accepted into the prestigious DRV Young Talents Programme 2026.
Erfurt, 9 April 2026. Julia Loos, a student from Erfurt, has received a major accolade: she is studying for a dual degree in Tourism Management at IU International University of Applied Sciences in Erfurt and has been accepted into the prestigious DRV Young Talents Programme 2026 – as one of only three participants selected nationwide in the student category.
The German Travel Association’s (DRV) support programme is regarded as one of the most important initiatives for promoting young talent in the tourism industry. It is aimed at particularly committed and high-achieving students who have the potential to actively shape the future of tourism.
The Erfurt student impressed not only with her academic achievements in her dual study programme, but also through her voluntary work. Alongside her studies, she is heavily involved in the student-run association Dual Thinking e.V., demonstrating how social engagement and professional development can go hand in hand. “I am delighted to have been accepted into the DRV Young Talents Programme. For me, this is a great opportunity to expand my network within the industry and gain new perspectives for my professional future,” says the student.
IU also regards the award as a strong signal: “The fact that one of our students is among the few participants selected nationwide underscores the quality and practical focus of our dual degree programme in Tourism Management. Such successes demonstrate that we are specifically preparing our students for demanding career paths within the industry,” says Dr Peter Neumann, Professor of Tourism Economics and Head of the Hospitality, Tourism & Event Department at IU.
The dual study programme combines academic training with intensive practical experience in companies within the tourism industry. Through the model of alternating or split weeks, students gain valuable insights into real-world work processes whilst simultaneously building a robust professional network.
Upon acceptance into the DRV Young Talents Programme, the student gains access to exclusive industry events, mentoring opportunities and a network of leading tourism professionals. Over 80 applications from across Germany were received for the 2026 DRV Young Talents Programme. A panel of experts selected ten young professionals from these – including just three students nationwide. “Anyone who specifically supports young talent today is strengthening innovation and quality in the travel industry in the long term,” emphasises Ulrike Katz, Vice-President of DRV.
Selected participants can look forward to a year-long support programme offering exclusive insights into the industry – including attendance at the DRV Annual Conference in the Azores on 15 April, as well as other specialist events and policy forums in Berlin and Brussels.
ABOUT THE DUAL DEGREE PROGRAMME IN TOURISM MANAGEMENT
The dual degree programme in Tourism Management specifically prepares students for specialist and managerial roles in a dynamic and international industry. Thanks to the close integration of theory and practice at a company of their choice, students benefit from excellent career prospects after graduation. Tuition fees are usually covered in full by the host company. Further information is available at: https://www.iu.de/en/bachelor/tourismusmanagement/dual-studies/
With nearly 130,000 students, IU International University of Applied Sciences (IU) is the largest university in Germany. The private, state-recognised educational institution, based in Erfurt, began teaching in 2000 and now has 37 campuses. IU stands for maximum flexibility in study: whether through dual study, distance learning or on campus – students from over 160 nations tailor their educational path to suit their individual circumstances. With more than 200 degree programmes at bachelor’s, master’s and MBA level, IU imparts practical skills. Innovative learning concepts foster targeted, future-proof skills for an increasingly AI-driven world of work. A modern, digitally supported learning environment and the use of artificial intelligence enable effective, personalised learning. As a pioneer in this field, IU has developed its own digital learning companion, ‘Syntea’, which has been in use since 2023. A network of over 15,000 companies – including Motel One, Vodafone, AWO and Deutsche Bahn – makes IU a strong partner in the training of skilled workers and consistently links academic teaching with practical experience. Further information at: iu.org