07/2025 Serhii Bilonozhko

Age: 24 | Nationality: Ukrainian

What are your favorite spots in Potsdam / Berlin / surroundings?

One of my favorite spots is a quiet little place by the water near Campus Griebnitzsee. There’s a small rental station where you can easily grab a SUP or kayak and go paddling right next to the university. It's a perfect way to clear your mind during a busy semester. If you're not into paddling, there’s also a beautiful cycling route around the lake – about 26 kilometers through Kleinmachnow and back to the campus via Wannsee. It's a great way to relax and stay active at the same time.

And of course, during exam season, the Griebnitzsee library becomes a favorite too – not because it’s scenic, but because it’s open on Sundays.

What are the places and moments that make you feel at home here?

For me, it’s all about the community. Over time, I’ve built a strong support network of international students, fellow foreigners, and even local German friends. They’ve been there to help with everything – from academic advice to figuring out daily life in a new country. It’s comforting to know that you can always turn to someone, no matter the issue. Germany’s diversity and openness have helped me feel truly at home.

Tell us about your degree program. How did you get interested in your field of study? Any favorite classes?

I'm studying for a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. Interestingly, I originally trained as a nurse in Ukraine and worked for four years. But over time, I realized that my real passion lay in economics and business. Even while I was working, I found myself reading about macroeconomic trends and financial indicators in my free time. That’s when I decided to follow this path.

Getting into the program wasn't easy – my Ukrainian qualifications weren’t directly recognized, so I had to go through a long and complicated process. But it was worth it. One of my favorite courses has been “Entrepreneurship,” where I got to explore real-life startup concepts and develop my own ideas.

Are there any specific courses or professors that left a strong impression on you? If so, why?

Absolutely! Professor Dr. Brennecke from the Chair of Innovation Management had a big influence on me. Although sadly she is no longer working at the University of Potsdam, her modules helped shape my academic direction. Through her courses and in collaboration with the university’s Startup Service, I co-founded a consulting project aimed at helping international students navigate bureaucracy and access reliable information when planning to study in Germany. I’ve also become a Buddy at the university to support incoming students – something that was inspired in part by that experience.

Your studies are in English – what about your German skills?

I actually taught myself German! I completed a formal course up to B1, but from that point on, I mostly learned through speaking with native speakers, watching YouTube videos, and practicing grammar on my own. It wasn’t always easy, but with persistence, I reached a C1 level and successfully passed the TELC certification. Learning German has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.

What differences have you noticed in the academic culture between Potsdam and your home country?

There are some major differences. In Germany, I appreciate the flexibility – I can plan my schedule and choose my courses each semester. In Ukraine, everything is fixed: you have set modules for each semester, and if you don’t pass them in time, you can be expelled. Attendance is also strictly monitored in Ukraine, whereas in Germany, students are trusted to take responsibility for their own learning.

The application process in Germany, especially via Uni-Assist, was also challenging. It involved a lot of paperwork, which was hard to manage as an international student. But once you're in, the system allows for much more academic freedom.

What is most surprising thing about Germany for you?

To be honest, the level of bureaucracy. I had heard the rumors – but it was still much more intense than I expected. Navigating the Ausländerbehörde (foreigners' office) was especially difficult. I was also surprised by the cultural differences in communication. In Ukraine, people are very direct – if something bothers you, you say it to the person. In Germany, people tend to be more reserved or indirect, which took me some time to understand.

Is there something you wish you had known before moving to Germany?

Honestly, there’s not one specific thing – but I think being prepared for the paperwork and understanding how independent university life is here would have made the transition smoother.

What’s one thing from your home country you really miss – and one thing from Germany you’ll take with you forever?

I really miss the digitalization in Ukraine – many bureaucratic processes can be handled through apps, and things are often much faster. In Germany, I’ve learned patience. What I’ll take with me from here is the value of structure and planning. Germany taught me how to organize not only my academic life, but also personal goals more effectively.

Do you have any connection to the DAAD, which turns 100 this year?

Yes, I’m very proud to be a recipient of the DAAD - Deutschlandstipendium. It has given me the financial stability to focus more on my academic work and contribute to projects supporting international students. The support from DAAD has truly empowered me to make the most of my studies and give something back to the university community.