What do you like most about studying at the university?

My degree program is practice-driven and allows me to apply my theoretical knowledge to real-life situations. The diversity of the international student community broadens my global perspective and improves my intercultural skills. Hochschule RheinMain is well equipped, which gives me state-of-the-art learning opportunities. The swift transition to online teaching during Covid was also a success.

Did you already speak German before you came to Germany?

When I came to Germany in 2016, I didn’t speak a word of German. I learned it at language school – all the way from level A1 to C1.

In what ways is Germany or studying in Germany particularly different from your home country?

As to the differences between Guatemala and Germany… where do I even begin? The two countries are very different. In terms of studying, it comes to mind that in Guatemala you can accumulate points for assignments and projects during the semester: You can be a bit more “relaxed” when final exams come around. Overall, my impression is that the standards are higher in Germany, at least in my discipline.

How did you hear about the “Industrial Engineering and Management” program? What is so special about it?

I heard about Hochschule RheinMain from a friend from Guatemala, she was enrolled in Media Management. At the time, I was in the middle of the application process for other universities in Bavaria, without success, due to the high number of applications. She told me I should try applying at her university. I hadn’t known that Industrial Engineering was offered at HSRM.

You are about to graduate, how many semesters do you need to complete your Bachelor's degree? What is your current study situation? Did you think at the beginning that things would work out the way they have?

I am currently completing a compulsory internship at a fragrance manufacturer and afterwards I will write my bachelor’s thesis. After ten semesters, I will then complete my studies.
At the beginning, I had a very different idea of what studying would be like. I first had to learn how to study properly and develop my time management skills. Self-discipline and independent learning are very important here. Although I was able to speak German at C1 level, I initially found it very difficult to fully understand the lectures. I also hadn’t realized how much free time I would have to give up to have more time to study.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I will probably do a master’s degree. I don’t know what exactly yet. After that, we’ll see.

What other support would you have liked during your studies?

I think the university provides a lot of support for international students, there is nothing more I would have wished for.

Thank you for answering our questions and all the best!