01/2026 Chelsea Molua
Age: 24 | Nationality: Cameroonian
What are your favorite spots in Potsdam (or Berlin) surroundings?
Schloss Babelsberg is one of my favorite spots around Potsdam. Its calm, serene atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings make it a perfect place for peace and reflection. The Park Sanssouci is also one of my favorites with its picturesque scenery and the Hollandisches Viertel.
This is your first time you live away from your home country. What are the places and moments that make you feel at home here?
This is my first time living away from my home country, but participating in the buddy program has made the transition much easier. Through the regular get-togethers they organize, I have been able to meet new people, build friendships, and learn about different cultures, which makes me feel truly at home here.
Tell us about your degree program. How did you get interested in your field of study? Any favorite classes?
I am studying Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, a field I became interested in through my long-standing fascination with the human body and the molecular mechanisms that govern health and disease. Understanding biological processes at the molecular level allows me to appreciate how complex systems function and how scientific discoveries translate into medicine. One of my favorite classes so far is Animal Models in Biomedicine with Prof. Dr. Salim Seyfried, which I find particularly fascinating.
How does studying at a German university compare to the academic system in your home country?
Compared to the academic system in my home country, studying at University of Potsdam places greater emphasis on active participation and critical thinking. The seminar-based learning environment have helped me develop analytical skills and deeper engagement in my studies
How has living and studying in Germany changed you, both academically and personally?
Academically, I have become more comfortable engaging in scientific discussions and research-based learning has made me quite more inquisitive in my field. Personally, living in a new cultural environment has made me more open-minded, adaptable and open to new perspectives and cultures
How did you navigate German bureaucracy and administration? Were there any particular challenges?
Navigating German bureaucracy required patience, especially when opening a bank account, but persistence helped me overcome the challenge. My Anmeldung registration was smooth thanks to the University of Potsdam’s Start-Up Orientation Day in collaboration with the Bürgeramt, which made on-campus registration easy for students.
Even though your degree program is taught in English, how important has learning German been for your everyday life?
Even though my degree program is taught in English, learning German has been essential for everyday life. I use it on the bus, at train stations, in supermarkets, and in other daily interactions. German makes it easier to get along and fully engage with my surroundings. It is a challenging but fun language to learn, and I am excited to continue improving until I speak it fluently.
What is it like experiencing your first winter in Germany, and how does it differ from what you were used to back home?
My first winter in Germany felt like stepping into a movie, with snow covering the city in white. Compared to back home, the cold is more intense, but I’ve enjoyed the unique atmosphere and the cozy feeling of winter life here: Visiting the Christmas markets and trying Glühwein and waffles made the experience even more special. Now, I eagerly anticipate the festive season every year.
What is most surprising thing about Germany for you?
One thing that has surprised me about Germany is how friendly and approachable people can be once you speak German. Even simple greetings or trying to communicate in German often brings warmth and helpfulness, which has encouraged me to keep improving my language skills.
Your future plans:
In the future, I hope to work in the pharmaceutical industry or pursue a PhD as a researcher. I am still exploring my options, but I am excited about contributing to scientific innovation and advancing knowledge in biochemistry and molecular biology.