“I’m glad I followed my intuition”

I first registered for the courses Romance and Slavonic studies and in the following semester I added psychology. At last I had my dream combination that was barred for me at other institutions of higher education, mainly because of psychology. Most universities only allocate a university place in psychology as a subsidiary subject on the basis of the overall grade achieved in the school-leaving exams. But in Heidelberg I could prove my abilities in a selection process.

I have greatly enjoyed studying from the very outset and I quickly felt at home in Heidelberg. After the basic course, an Erasmus semester in France followed, where I always was especially proud of my home university because Heidelberg is well-known everywhere. Now, four years on, being able to study at the University of Heidelberg still makes me proud because it has now become one of the few Universities of Excellence in Germany.

I am also lucky to study courses that have small numbers of students. This way the subject matter can be handled in conveniently sized groups. Most professors also encourage and assist their students outside the lecture hall.

In addition to my courses I can benefit from a variety of lectures often held by internationally renowned guest speakers specialising in different subjects such as politics or literature. Furthermore, I profit from the courses offered by the Centre for Study Counselling and Continuing Education. Especially after the introduction of tuition fees this institution has broadened its choice of courses.

The University of Heidelberg is more than an educational establishment; it is also a place of employment for me and many other students. Fortunately, being a research assistant I not only earn money but can also acquire many skills for my future vocation.

After receiving my master’s degree I would like to stay here. “The beauty of the city and its environs can fairly be said to verge on the ideal,” as Goethe once remarked so aptly. Heidelberg is not only beautiful, it is also one of the three healthiest cities in Germany because of the advanced medical care available here and the clean air, just to mention two positive aspects. The cultural offerings are as diverse as the choice of sports and other leisure activities. The many sunny days and the large number of foreign students and tourists contribute to the city’s great atmosphere. This gives Heidelberg an international flair without robbing it of the charm of a cosy student town.

The university and Heidelberg have become inseparable for me. For one thing I have found a new home here, and for another the University may be my future employer. I am optimistic about the future. With a degree from the University of Heidelberg and my abilities I will have plenty of options.

I’m glad I followed my intuition.

Journalists’ inquiries should be addressed to
Dr. Michael Schwarz
Public Information Officer
University of Heidelberg
michael.schwarz@rektorat.uni-heidelberg.de

translated by Olesia Muschenko and Alexandra Oks
School of Translation and Interpreting
University of Heidelberg

Irene Thewalt
presse@rektorat.uni-heidelberg.de