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Age: 70 years | Nationality: Danish | Field of study / work: Department of Jewish Studies and Religious Studies
In Denmark. Borders were closed and it was not legal for my husband to go to Berlin, as he afterwards would be quarantined at his work in Denmark. And there would be no insurance. Well all my lectures had to be virtual ZOOM online, which meant it does not matter where you were.
Yes I got much more experience in using Zoom and I did learn how to get more close and deeper into the texts we did study, as I did share the text on Zoom right while I was giving those lectures.
Yes, being close to students and colleagues in real life. It is like no propose in studying how to live together and understand identities if you are just absent and keep distance.
Well next time we have to find out how to help the weakest students. We loose then more or less right way.
Maybe it could be possible to differentiate so those seminars with few students could be in real life at university and we still could keep up all Corona conditions.
„I just gave my lectures virtual by Zoom. I did already do a lot of digital teaching in Denmark, but of course it was disappointing not being able to be on spot in Potsdam, not being able to socialize and exchange thoughts and ideas with colleagues. Sad not to mee the students in real life. It was my luck, that I already had been as an Erasmus dozent twice and therefore had so good contact to some of the professors. They did help me a lot with practical matters. Especially dr. Dirk Schuster was a great help.“
Kuhhorn an der Havel. Like so much the rivers and lakes around Potsdam and Berlin
The very polite manner between students and teacher. As a Dane I do like it a lot. Its relaxing and a professional attitude and relationship. Well of course you also can miss the informal relation as we have it in Denmark.
To follow up in Denmark on theories of identity based on with nationality and religion. To give lectures about Dr. Dirk Schuster’s studies on the connection between Christianity and antisemitism, and to do more research local in Denmark about religious communities like in Professor Hans Hafner’s work. “Glauben in Potsdam.”
Try to visit the university before you apply for your scholarship. Get some contacts before your stay. Its much easier in the short time of 6 month to get a good result out of your stay.
Age: 45 years | Nationality: Syrian | Field of study / work: Food science-Milk quality (PhD candidate)
The variety in bakery sparks a lot of my curiosity. Excellent traffic system. The equal opportunities system for children in education. Germans keep distance and don’t make a friend quickly, but when you have a friendship with German, it is precious.
Being very surrounding and prepared with the aspect of your research, through soft-relevant skills of your field. Very crucial thing which will make a big difference in your life is learning the German language.
I would like to continue in the field of research to be a dairy technologist. Also becoming involved in organizations that support small scale sector farmers and livestock keepers in Syria.
„The historical identity of the place means a lot to me. It is not possible to limit the huge number of places that can be visited especially for nature lovers and meditation. For me, I love standing on The Glienicke Bridge across the Havel lake, which was the checkpoint between two countries that later united. Also, visiting the Cecilienhof Palace in the New Garden in which the Potsdam agreement in 1945 was signed was very emotional.“
Age: 43 years | Nationality: Israeli | Field of study / work: Philosophy (PhD candidate)
In Potsdam: The Havel area, and all the ancient historical monuments.
Germany is rich with natural flora, and water resources which gives a feeling of peace, quiet and serenity.
I plan to travel and tour Germany and the neighboring countries.
„In the beginning things might seem complicated, but with a little patience you discover a rich and interesting culture. The university has a lot of helpful facilities, and I would advise you to take the opportunity to learn the German language.“
Age: 31 | Nationality: Nigerian | Field of study / work: Sedimentology / Stratigraphic Forward Modelling (PhD Candidate)
I love the serenity and aesthetics of the Park Sansouci and I love to walk along the Freundschaftsinsel near the Hauptbahnof.
The availability of most of the facilities required for research also puts a time-constraint on how much can be done. I think the most important factor in the discharge of your research is time. Spend your time smartly on your research but also plan to enjoy Germany. Make friends, make memories, and make impact.
I plan to work in the georesources industry bringing in my training as a geoscientist and as a researcher. While doing that, I hope to find a way to impact my locality practically through the establishment of a quality community school for orphans and destitutes. Maybe (just maybe) I may get into politics one day too, but it is not on top of the list.
„The tuition-free universities and the freedom of scientific researchers really amaze me. Although I am awed by the warmness of most Germans, I am surprised that it really takes time to make friends with one.“
Age: 26 years | Nationality: Turkish | Field of study / work: Inclusive Education – Diversity in Education and Development
In Potsdam: Park Sanssouci
In Berlin: Tempelhof Feld and multicultural neighborhoods (Kreuzberg, Neukölln, Rixdorf), Maybachufer Fleamarket.
The time flies by, and there is so much to get done in a limited time. Choose your advisors wisely; a healthy relationship with your advisors is one of the essential parts of a Ph.D. Try setting short-term and long-term goals and keep checking them whether you are on the right track. Also, take care of your physical and mental health; they matter the most!
I would also suggest fellow scholars learn German, especially the ones who are doing their Ph.D. in social science departments. Because learning German will help you to better understand the social structures in German society and be a more active member of your scientific community.
„I hope to continue to do research and improve our understanding of intergroup relations between privileged and underprivilege groups. I would also like to create opportunities to empower women/children of color in Germany.“
Age: 34 | Nationality: Sudanese | Field of study / work: Molecular Biotechnology (Visiting scientist)
I am impressed with potsdam gardens and palaces. The historic architecture and abundance of greenery are very pleasant.
Germany is a great place for research. Become part of a large international research community and benefit from the excellent infrastructure, a wide variety of disciplines and well-equipped research facilities. Be patient to achieve your goals and keep going.
I will keep on working as an assistant professor, delivering lectures and conducting research to understand how plants respond to environmental stresses and finding a way to develop stress tolerant crops. I believe, there is always more to learn, discover and opportunities to be of service to one’s community, country and the world.
„As a resident of Potsdam, I am amazed by the historical and cultural monuments, each one tells a story about Germany.“
Age: 33 | Nationality: Sudanese | Field of study / work: Animal Behavior and Molecular Biology (PhD candidate)
Germany has many beautiful places to visit. I was amazed by the beautiful landscapes and the architectures of the historical places especially in Potsdam.
In Berlin: The Museum of Natural History, Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall and Zoo are the most attractive places I have ever visited.
The uniqueness of the community and culture here. People are kind and always ready to help. In Germany, you can find people from different nationalities. This diversity gives people the chance to get exposed to different cultures and traditions. Especially during the pandemic of coronavirus, I realise that the society deals with it in a serious manner. People are well organized, united and committed to rules.
Laboratories, instruments and up to date references are within your hands. Hence you are here for a limited period of time; you can get the most out of all these facilities available for you. Moreover, you have to be patient with all the circumstances you might face and try to learn German language.
„I will keep working on research and teaching in the university. Therefore, I will improve myself in modern and top scientific methods at the molecular biology and animal behavior. In addition it will promote the very interesting evolutionary and conservation research. Moreover, I am looking to publish my research and transfer this knowledge to my students and colleagues who are engaged in the same field of study in my country. I will keep conducting scientific research as I am convinced that; a scientist’s journey has no end.“
Age: 33 years | Nationality: Italian | Field of study / work: Cognitive Neurosciences
Babelsberg and Dutch Quarter in Potsdam, Spreepark and Kreuzberg in Berlin.
The surrounding sense of movement, construction and constant changing, that you can literally breath in.
I would like to keep on working in research and university, hopefully take up a fruitful academic career.
„Be patient with bureaucracy and red tape stuffs, everything will be fine.“
Age: 30 years | Nationality: Egypt | Field of study / work: Geosciences (PhD candidate)
I like the natural landscapes in Potsdam. Walking by the water bodies and seeing the architecture of the trimmed trees is my favorite activity.
Germany is highly international and diverse; I have met people from almost all the countries of the world, from different cultures and backgrounds. This diversity gives people the chance to experience different cultures, to see one's own culture through the eyes of other cultures which is always surprising and amazing, moreover, to question many of the stereotypes one have in mind through meeting actual people.
I have been working in teaching and research at the university for the last 9 years. And my future plan is to continue my journey in science.
„I know that we are all busy with our research projects, however, I would like to suggest that you invest some time on learning the German language. Learning German will get you to know more about the German culture which is worth exploring, you will get to understand the German humour which does exist and you will get yourself engaged in very interesting conversations.“
Age: 36 | Nationality: Trinidadian (from Trinidad & Tobago) | Field of study / work: Fluid Systems Modelling (PhD candidate)
Neuer Garten, Potsdam; KaDeWe and Kurfürstendamm in Berlin
Maybe you are here for a limited time, so take the opportunity to learn as much as you can both inside and outside the academic environment. While Germany offers some of the world’s best educational and professional opportunities, it also affords you a myriad of cultural experiences that is native to Europe. Berlin grants easy access to all other European nations so take advantage to travel especially when you need some away from your project to relax.
Work in the renewable energy storage and recovery field and share my knowledge as often as possible. Travel the world, take photos to immortalize unforgettable moments and share them. I have spent the last 14 years working, studying and travelling abroad. I have been fortunate to have won a series of scholarships and fellowships, enabling my academic achievements. I would like to implement a scholarship program in my native country to assist young people from underprivileged backgrounds, especially young women, to achieve their academic goals.
„I come from a place where people love wearing bright colours so the lack of this in German everyday fashion was surprising to me. The people here seem to prefer dark clothing.“
Age: 49 | Nationality: Nigeria | Field of study / work: Cultural Studies/Postcolonial Studies; Stand-Up comedy and Nigeria's postcolonial imaginary
Not just one place, actually but a couple of places, for their serenity and peaceful ambience. The Potsdam Garden close to the Hauptbahnhof; the Wannsee River; Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Potsdam.
That is the widespread bicycling culture despite the efficient public transport system. In my country, bicycles are metaphors of poverty.
The research experience affords an infinite bouquet of opportunities and possibilities for academic work and intellectual networks, cultural understanding and friendships. So while we conduct our research which is our primary concern, scholars should also invest their time and energies in the pursuit of these other legitimate concerns which can enhance our common humanity, promote cultural understanding and build a better world for our generation and posterity.
„I hope to publish my research in a book and to return to my country to impart the knowledge to my students, university community and affect my environment positively. I also hope to establish a private university in Nigeria in the near future. Tall dream but supremely realizable.“
Age: 35 years | Nationality: Uganda | Field of study / work: Political Science
I love the water bodies around Berlin and Potsdam. I have taken boat trips around the Spree, the Havel, Müggelsee, and the River Cruise "Tour of 7 Lakes" from Wannsee to Potsdam. Apart from taking boat tours and canoeing, I also love fishing on these water bodies.
The friendliness of the people. One of the less talked about traits of German people is that they are humble, kind and always looking to help others. I was for example surprised to see that nearly everyone is happy to offer their seat on public transport to elderly people and children.
To work as an international development consultant, using my research to advise governments and international development partners.
„Keep an open mind. Forget about what you have heard about PhDs, supervisors or the community in which you are doing your research, and give yourself a chance to define and enjoy your own personal experiences.“
Age: 28 | Nationality: Indian | Field of Research: PhD in Hydro-Climatology
Wannsee lake and nearby forest
Focus on key-skills courses offered by either your respective institute or POGS. They are incredibly important and helpful. Most of the German universities have many key skill courses such as communication, collaboration, networking, slide preparing, scientific writing etc. The integration of these courses in academic (mostly research) curriculum will indeed boost your self-confidence.
Recently, I have secured an assistant professor position at IIT-Roorkee in Hydrology Department. My joining is due on the 1st of October, 2019. With the growing recognition and need to global actions to tackle the climate crisis, my research team and I will broadly focus on deciphering the complexity in Indian Monsoon, its prediction and technical felicitation mechanism through teleconnections. In achieving the solutions to these research problems, I deeply acknowledge the importance of partnership and international cooperation, partnerships and other collaborative forums. My long-term goal after going back to India is to keep the bi-lateral relationship alive and explore opportunities to send new talent to Germany for study and research.
„Amalgamation of Lernfreiheit (Freedom to learn) and Lehrfreiheit (Freedom to teach) One of the central attributes of the German education system is freedom, provided both to the students and the teachers which enables a great degree of autonomy at both end of the spectrum. Students have the freedom to ask questions, freedom to develop, and to solving problems. This core attribute, in my opinion, is what differentiates the German education system from others thereby making Germany a ‘knowledge-based economy’. “