06/2026 Alina Rahat

Age: 25 | Nationality: Pakistani

Can you briefly introduce yourself and tell us where you’re from?

I`m from Hunza, Pakistan.

What are you currently studying at the University of Potsdam, and what inspired you to choose this field?

I am currently studying Clinical Linguistics at the University of Potsdam. I chose this field because I have always been interested in language, communication, and how speech disorders can affect a person’s daily life. My background in speech and language therapy further inspired me to deepen my knowledge and develop more specialized clinical and research skills. I find it very rewarding to work with individuals who face communication difficulties and help improve their quality of life

What were your first impressions when you arrived in Germany and Potsdam?

My first impressions of Germany, especially Potsdam, were very positive. I was really fascinated by the beautiful architecture and the well-organized environment. The city has a unique combination of historical buildings and modern infrastructure, which makes it very attractive and peaceful.

One thing that impressed me a lot was the cycling culture. I noticed that people of all ages regularly use bicycles in their daily lives. It was inspiring to see how cycling is such a normal and environmentally friendly part of everyday transportation here.

I was also impressed by the public transportation system. The buses, trams, and trains are very convenient, punctual, and student-friendly. It makes traveling easy and comfortable, especially for international students who are still getting familiar with the city.

What has been the biggest cultural difference or adjustment for you so far?

One of the biggest cultural adjustments for me has been the shopping and daily routine culture in Germany. I was surprised that most shops close quite early, usually between 7 and 8 pm, and almost everything is closed on Sundays. In the beginning, it was difficult to adjust because I was used to stores being open much later and weekends being normal shopping days.

However, over time, I started to understand and appreciate the work-life balance here. People value personal time, rest, and spending time with family, which is reflected in these routines.

Are there any places, activities, or moments in Potsdam or Berlin that make you feel especially at home here?

Yes, there are several places and moments that make me feel at home here. I especially enjoy the peaceful parks and lakes in Potsdam, which give me a sense of calm and comfort.

I also like visiting Berlin because of its diversity and lively atmosphere. The cultural carnival in Berlin was a memorable experience for me, where people from many countries celebrated their traditions through music, food, and costumes. It felt very vibrant and inclusive.

Overall, the student environment and meeting people from different cultures have helped me feel more comfortable and at home in Germany.

How would you describe your experience as an international student at the University of Potsdam? Have there been any particularly memorable moments?

My experience as an international student at the University of Potsdam has been very positive and enriching. I have had the opportunity to meet people from different countries, which has helped me learn about new cultures and perspectives. The academic environment is supportive, and I have been able to develop both personally and professionally.

One particularly helpful experience was the buddy program, which supported me in the beginning and made it much easier to settle in. Through this program, I was able to meet new people, get guidance about daily life, and feel more connected to the student community.

Overall, studying here has been a valuable and memorable journey so far.

What challenges did you face when adapting to life in Germany, and what helped you settle in?

One of the main challenges I faced when adapting to life in Germany was the language. Although I had some basic knowledge of German, it was difficult at first to understand everyday conversations, especially in fast-paced situations like shopping, administration, or public transport. This sometimes made me feel less confident in the beginning.

What helped me most was continuous practice and interacting with native speakers as well as fellow international students. The university environment, language practice, and daily exposure gradually improved my confidence. Over time, I started feeling more comfortable communicating and managing daily life independently.

What advice would you give to future international students coming to Potsdam for the first time?

My advice to future international students coming to Potsdam for the first time would be to start learning the German language as early as possible. Even basic German makes a big difference in daily life, especially when dealing with shopping, transport, or administrative tasks.

I would also suggest being open to new experiences and trying to connect with people from different cultures. Joining student activities or programs like the buddy system can really help in making friends and settling in more quickly. Overall, being patient with yourself and adapting step by step makes the transition much easier.