Student Profiles

Juliane

Name: Juliane

Course: Postgraduate Student in Intelligence and Strategic Studies

I am from: Dresden, Germany

Describe what it is like coming to Aberystwyth from your country, how is it different and what do you enjoy? Professors have a much more personal relationship with students; they are really open to help you at all times; the student groups are much smaller in seminars than in our Vorlesungen; however there are less lessons per week than in Germany and you are expected to work individually.

How do you fund your studies? AuslandsBAföG, Studienkredit (German funds)

Why would you recommend Aberystwyth to other German students? It is a very lovely location with very good teachers and facilities, the sports environment is great; it is easy to find friends.

What social activities or extracurricular clubs are you involved in? French Society, Showdance Society, lots of Tae-Bo and Aerobic-classes in the sports centre, Choral society.

What are you planning to do in the future? I have a placement with NATO in Brussels.

Emanuel

Name: Emanuel

Course: International Politics with Economics

I am from: Berlin, Germany

What is it like in Aberystwyth?

Aberystwyth is a beautiful and buzzing sea-side town with over half of the population being students. There are plenty shops, bars, restaurants and clubs and the University campus is huge but lovely. Frequent breaks at the beach, walks around town and nights out are a major part of student life. The close-knit community makes everyone feel welcome and it’s very easy to find amazing friends!

Compared to Berlin, Aberystwyth is rather small but once you’re there it feels a lot bigger than it actually is. All the students but also the friendly and helpful locals make it a perfect place to live and study. It still makes me happy when the cashiers in the supermarkets greet you with a smile and say “How are you?” Settling in is really easy and there is plenty support available if needed. I absolutely love being so close to the sea and now start missing it as soon as I am back home in Berlin!

How do you fund your studies? I am lucky enough that my parents are able to support me but I also get some Bafög and work whenever I am home in Berlin.

Why would you recommend Aberystwyth to other students? I would definitely recommend Aber to other students, it is an amazing place to be and once you are part of the so-called Aber-Bubble you don’t really want to leave again.

What is the best thing about your course? The best thing about my course is… everything! The friendly staff are always there to help, the modules are super interesting and there are amazing exchange opportunities to Europe, Canada, Australia and beyond!

What advice would you give to a European student considering Aberystwyth University? My advice would be to come and study here if you find a degree scheme that you would like to take. It is important to plan ahead and to make sure that you get yourself organised. Everything else will fall into place.

Why did you choose Aberystwyth University? Even though not very many people have heard of Aberystwyth University around here, it offers a wide variety of degrees and boasts the oldest and one of the best renowned International Politics departments in the world.

What are you planning to do in the future? I would like to go on and do a Masters in Management and then work for some international corporation, institute or think tank. Let’s see where the road will take me!

Anke Jobsky

Name: Anke Jobsky

Course: Postgraduate MSc Management and Marketing

I am from: Germany

What is it like in Aberystwyth? I’d say that cannot be described with a few words, rather it’s a matter of personal first-hand experience. Aberystwyth is doubtlessly special, kinda “magic” and I personally like it very much (I’m here for the second time!). Nevertheless one must clearly say it’s not everybody’s taste. A person who likes nature, the sea, living in a small town with nice and friendly people will certainly like this town. In contrast, someone who needs the ‘big city-feeling’ with endless shopping possibilities around the corner and lots of different night clubs will probably miss something. However Aberystwyth can definitely be considered a very charming town where you can feel home and meet many people with warmth that can enrich your educational experience.

Describe what it is like coming to Aberystwyth from your country, how is it different and what do you enjoy? Food is different as opposed to Germany, and you spend slightly more money on groceries. What I like is people’s attitude. They all seem very relaxed, especially when the sun is shining; all generations sit outside and enjoy life – that’s very nice to observe and very enjoyable compared to the self-discipline common amongst many Germans.

How do you fund your studies? I got a scholarship from my department, and the rest is funded privately.

Why would you recommend Aberystwyth to other students? It is an experience that will certainly shape your character, make you more open towards nature and international people and helps to improve your English skills.