This May, the Institute for International Political Economy at WU Vienna welcomed two new colleagues: Valentin Kless and Elgin Klara Raupach. Both joined as Tutors for the course “Advanced and Applied Sustainable Economics and Business” and are already making valuable contributions to supporting students, organizing revision sessions, and helping to develop innovative teaching formats. Their work ensures that complex ideas at the intersection of economics, sustainability, and business are taught in an engaging and accessible way.

Valentin Kless

Valentin is currently pursuing his bachelor’s degree in Economics and Social Sciences at WU, specializing in Economics, Environment, and Politics, with a particular focus on the Politics and Money track. His academic path has been shaped not only in Vienna but also abroad: during a semester at the Universitat de Barcelona, he broadened his horizons by engaging with Spanish culture and gaining deeper insight into the country’s social and political context.

At the Institute, Valentin’s responsibilities extend beyond tutoring. He supports the supervision of students, organizes revision sessions to consolidate learning, and is actively involved in developing digital and innovative teaching formats. For him, this role is not just a student job, but an important step toward his professional future. He sees the combination of economic expertise and communication skills he is developing as preparation for careers ranging from economic policy to consulting.

Outside of academics, Valentin stays active through sports, finds creativity and relaxation in cooking, and enjoys exploring different cultures – whether through travel or his studies.

Elgin Klara Raupach

Elgin is also enrolled in the Business, Economics, and Social Sciences program at WU, specializing in Politics and Money. Before moving to Vienna, she studied socioeconomics for two semesters in Kiel and dedicated a year to volunteering with a youth environmental association during a voluntary ecological year. This formative experience not only strengthened her commitment to sustainability but also deepened her interest in social engagement and political issues.

At the Institute, Elgin contributes to the educational mission of “Advanced and Applied Sustainable Economics and Business” by supporting students directly, clarifying complex concepts in revision sessions, and engaging in the creation of innovative teaching approaches. For her, this work is closely aligned with her academic interests and her career goals. She sees her role as excellent preparation for professional paths in which economic knowledge, policy analysis, and communication skills come together to inform debates on sustainable economic development and political decision-making.

Outside her studies and work, Elgin also leads an active lifestyle. She enjoys sports as both recreation and inspiration, likes to cook creatively, and is politically engaged – reflecting her passion for societal change and public discourse.

A Shared Mission

Both Valentin and Elgin bring enthusiasm, curiosity, and strong motivation to their tutoring roles. Their international experiences, academic specializations, and personal commitments enrich the Institute’s work and ensure that students benefit from diverse perspectives on sustainability and economics.

We are delighted to welcome them to the team and look forward to seeing their contributions continue to shape an engaging and forward-looking learning environment at the Institute for International Political Economy.

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