Incoming Visiting Students

First impressions?

Before coming here, I had a lot of preconceived notions about Germany. I came by Eurostar train. When I crossed the border into Germany, I knew I was there. Just looking at the landscapes, it was very different from my home country—it was very nice and clean.

One thing that surprised me was the number of people using bicycles. I knew that Germany is an eco-friendly country, but I wasn’t expecting so many cyclists. I did a lot of biking in France, so I felt like I belonged.

The integration of international students is easier here.  I wasn’t aware that the university welcomed so many students from all over the world. That was really different from my home university.

Challenges and growth?

The first challenge I faced was the language barrier. Initially, my English wasn’t very good when I arrived. At first, it was complicated, but I knew I would be staying in this country for a year, so I needed to improve both my English and my German. I live with 13 girls in my flat, so our discussions are in English. I also met other international students who had the same difficulties with English, and this motivated me to speak more and more with people from different countries. Thanks to this, I became fluent in English in just two months. The first weeks are very complicated, but it’s really only the first two or three weeks—after that, it gets easier.

Honestly, coming here was the best decision I’ve ever made. I’ve learned that it’s important to interact with both international and local people and not just stay with people from the same country. We’ll only improve if we try!

Funny memories?

My first cultural shock was that people here don’t greet each other on the street when they pass by. The first time I greeted someone here, they didn’t understand why I was doing it. It’s just not part of the culture. I’ve found a substitute now—I simply smile, and usually, people smile back.

One of my best memories here was one day when I was walking down the street wearing a fluorescent yellow hat. A German person passed me and told me it suited me, adding that they weren’t used to seeing such bright colors here. People here tend to wear more neutral tones. Without realizing it, this person completely made my day.

My second best memory happened after a campus party. It was a karaoke party, and I went without my friends. During the party, I met new people, and we socialized. Afterwards, around 10 p.m., I found it fascinating that supermarkets here stay open until midnight. We ended up in a park, talking about everything and nothing, sharing stories about our different cultures until 4 a.m. It was so cool—we were a group of eight, all from different nationalities.

First impressions?

In my home university I heard the city is so small, so I didn’t expect such a big university with different departments, buildings, and a big library. The green nature and welcoming atmosphere made it so lovely. I like the city and more than that the university. I like the professors who are so kind to me especially Prof. Dr. Peter Mayer.

Challenges and growth?

The block week event with applied work helped me overcome my shyness to some extent. Classes with fewer students, where professors pay attention to everyone, made me more focused. Communicating with foreign students, especially German ones, has been friendly.

Funny memories?

The first time I visited the dormitory, I discovered there was no elevator, and I had to carry two big bags up to the 4th floor. Thankfully, my wonderful buddy, Emilia Neumann, helped me. She has been so kind and supportive, always smiling and ready to assist me on many occasions.

First impressions?

Personally, I approached this experience with the goal of meeting new people and learning about a new culture. While I may not have experienced it to its full potential, I did gain a lot from it to some degree.

Challenges and growth?

The biggest challenge for me was dealing with culture shock, as it was my first time spending nearly half a year in another country, mostly on my own. I’m grateful for the opportunity. One thing that surprised me was that the majority of places are closed on Sundays. That’s not something I’m used to, so I had to prepare everything on Fridays or Saturdays.

Funny memories?

As for funny memories, almost every event or meetup here has left a lasting impression. Interacting with people from different cultures and enjoying the local nature, beer, and cuisine has been the perfect recipe for a successful and enjoyable experience.

I’d give this experience a 10 out of 10 and would definitely recommend it!