Interview conducted by Ivana Putri
Ana Alhoud (2018-2020) is an American who traveled across the pond to start her Euroculture life in Göttingen, Germany. Before Euroculture, she studied Communication and International Studies for her Bachelor’s degree. She applied for Euroculture because she loves learning about different cultures and the many ways they interact. Ana is about to finish her first semester in Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Germany, and she will be continuing the next semester at the University of Deusto in Bilbao, Spain.
Thank you Ana, for taking the time to answer these questions!
1. What was the most difficult thing that you had to adjust to when you started the programme?
For me, the most difficult thing to adjust to was the language barrier. Even though I have experience with other languages, German threw me a curve ball because the languages I do know are not super similar in structure or sound. However, I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn German and overcome the challenge it presented.
2. What were your expectations of the curriculum and how does it match with the reality at the moment?
To be perfectly honest, I didn’t know what exactly to expect from Euroculture. Naturally, I assumed politics and cultural studies would be a part of the curriculum, but that was the extent of my imaginings. Thankfully, Euroculture has completely blown my expectations out of the water and I couldn’t be happier with this incredibly unique program. Everyday I get to learn about and discuss perspectives on the world that affect all of us. This program is a gift that helps you grow into a truly comprehensive global citizen; and the people are fantastic!
3. Tell us about your study experience in Euroculture thus far.
So far I have found the workload in Euroculture ample but fair. We do a lot of readings and you have to stay on top of your stuff, but the topics we discuss are really interesting and, if you give it a chance, can make you think a lot about the world we live in. The faculty [in Göttingen] is super helpful and is always offering advice and tips for students to succeed. Göttingen itself is a lively student city that I think anyone would thrive in too.
4. Do you have any tips or things you want to tell to prospective students?
My advice to prospective students is to not be overwhelmed with trying to understand everything about Euroculture before you get in. It’s truly an experience that you understand as you live it. Apply and hopefully you’ll be admitted to this program that is unlike anything else!
The Euroculturer 