Welcoming culture at the University of Bayreuth

New surroundings, foreign language, different culture. Starting to study abroad can be challenging. Heidi Contreras knows this from her own experience. She comes from Mexico, where she attended a German school, and came to Germany four years ago to study at the University of Bayreuth. Bayreuth has since become a second home for her and she works for Welcome Services on campus alongside her studies. As a “buddy”, she helps other students to find their way around the campus and student life.

UBTaktuell: Heidi, why did you decide to study at UBT back then?

Because the University of Bayreuth offers a super interdisciplinary program in International Business that perfectly matches my interests and career goals. I also thought the family atmosphere was great and I immediately felt welcome. The campus is beautiful and you can get to know students from a wide range of disciplines. Bayreuth as a city also offers a unique combination of historical significance and scenic beauty.

What are you currently studying and how satisfied are you?

I'm studying International Economics and Development and I'm very happy with it. The courses are exciting and the lecturers are committed and helpful. I particularly like the fact that, after the basics, I can put together the courses myself and that they are interdisciplinary. This allows me to specialize in my field of study. The support I have received from the university has enriched my studies and helped me to settle in quickly and be successful.

How did your start at UBT go? Did you have any support from the Welcome Services?

My start at UBT went really well, although it wasn't easy at first to find my way around a new country and a new culture, in addition to the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. The Welcome Services were a great help. My “buddy“ gave me great support during this time. He helped me deal with all the bureaucratic tasks and integration into the community. This help was really great, because it made me feel comfortable and welcome very quickly.

What special challenges are there when you start studying in a foreign country?

There are a few things to consider. You have to get used to a new culture and a new education system, overcome the language barrier and build up a social network. Dealing with administrative processes and bureaucratic hurdles can be quite overwhelming at first. It is also not easy emotionally to be far away from family and friends and to find your way in a completely new environment.

What advantages does UBT offer international students from your point of view?

UBT has a lot to offer - especially for international students! The atmosphere is very familial, which enables close interaction with lecturers and other students. There is a lot of support, such as the Welcome Services, which help international students to settle in quickly and feel at home. The university also offers many opportunities for personal and professional development. The campus and the city of Bayreuth are beautiful and offer a high quality of life.

What's next for you after your studies?

After my studies, I would like to stay in Bayreuth or nearby and work in the international field, preferably with a connection to Latin America. I simply can't imagine leaving my friends and the new family I've found here. I've settled in really well in Bayreuth and it's like a second home to me now.