How to Study in Germany

Danish: My Way from Pakistan to Germany

Moving to a new country is never easy — and Danish knows it well. Originally from Pakistan, he’s now studying Management and Data Science at Leuphana University. In this episode, he opens up about the reality of starting over: adapting to a new system, finding his academic path, and reflecting on the very structured life he led before moving abroad. Tune in to hear how Danish balances discipline with discovery, and what it’s really like to build a future in a foreign land.

Ana Maria: My Way from Columbia to Germany

Moving abroad is an adventure filled with challenges—finding a place to live, adapting to a new culture, and studying in a foreign language. Ana-María from Colombia has faced it all! Now pursuing Cultural Studies, Culture and Organizationin Germany, she shares her story of navigating German bureaucracy, securing a DAAD scholarship, and overcoming the struggles of settling in a new country. We also talk about language barriers, cultural shocks, and her tips for future international students. Tune in for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation! 00:00 - Introduction 02:30 - Cultural Studies Program 03:30 - First Days in Germany 07:25 - Impressions of German Education vs. Colombian Education 09:40 - Making New Friends 11:20 - Cultural Differences 13:50 - Finding Accommodation in Germany 18:00 - Learning German: Tips 20:20 - DAAD Scholarship 25:00 - Wrap-Up

Adil: My Way from Azerbaijan to Germany

Meet Adil, a master’s student from Azerbaijan studying Public Economics, Law, and Politics in Germany. Before moving abroad, he worked at the State Migration Service and was actively involved in the "Migration Volunteer" Public Union, gaining firsthand experience in migration policies and international mobility. In this episode, he shares his journey of relocating to Germany, adapting to a new academic system, and navigating life as an international student. We also discuss his passion for migration policy, cultural differences, and his advice for students considering studying in Germany. Tune in for an insightful and inspiring conversation! 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - Guest introduction (Adil) 01:00 - Adil’s background and why he chose Germany 02:30 - First impressions of Germany 04:15 - Biggest challenges when moving to Germany 06:00 - Learning German: difficulties and strategies 08:20 - Experience at Leuphana University 10:45 - Cultural differences between Azerbaijan and Germany 13:00 - Finding accommodation as an international student 15:20 - Financial challenges and how Adil manages expenses 17:40 - Social life and making friends in Germany 20:00 - Advice for future international students 22:00 - Closing thoughts and outro

Emre: My Way from Turkey to Germany

Meet Emre, a master’s student in Public Affairs and Democracy who just took a huge step—moving to Germany! With only a week in the country, he shares his first impressions, the ups and downs of the visa process, and what drew him to Leuphana University. We also chat about his Erasmus experience in Budapest, his love for basketball and podcasting, and his dreams for the future. If you’re thinking about studying in Germany, especially as a student from Turkey, Emre’s story is full of insights, laughs, and heartfelt advice. Tune in for an inspiring and honest conversation about starting fresh in a new country! Episode timeline 00:01 – Intro 00:50 – Emre’s introduction & first impressions of Germany 03:00 – The challenges and surprises of moving abroad 05:15 – The visa process: struggles, doubts & final approval 09:30 – Choosing Leuphana: Why Germany & the academic journey 13:45 – Comparing studies in Germany & Turkey 16:20 – Erasmus in Budapest: How it shaped Emre’s decision 19:00 – Basketball & podcasting: Emre’s passion projects 22:30 – Learning German: Expectations vs. reality 25:10 – Adjusting to life in Germany: Tips for international students 29:30 – Final advice & reflections 30:30 – Outro

Polina: From Russia to Germany

Meet Polina, a Master’s student in Culture and Organization from Russia, who has a lot to say about adapting to a new country, chasing opportunities, and figuring things out along the way. In this episode, we dive into her experience of moving to Germany, the ups and downs of studying in a foreign language, and how she’s shaping her path. Episode timeline 00:01 Intro 00:50 Polina’s introduction 02:00 Academic Journey 10:50 Learning German Language 15:05 Navigating the Job Market in Germany 26:20 Balancing studies and personal life 28:40 Advice for Future International Students 30:00 Outro