What do you like most about studying at the university? What advice would you give a friend, for example, who would like to come to Germany to study?

I like HSRM because the campus is not very big and the number of students is limited, so it feels like a family. The infrastructure is more than adequate for my program in humanities – the library is well equipped and has suitable working hours, and the lecture rooms are comfortable for the group size. You can find pretty much everything you need on campus.

What was it like for you when you started studying? Did you find it difficult to get used to life as a student?

Though I was very worried about the language at the beginning of my studies, I quickly realized that it didn't matter much to the lecturers if someone didn't have perfect command of the German language. I found it very easy to meet fellow students, because you can connect with others quickly and easily via the university's student platforms (such as Stud.IP).

Had you already learnt German before you came to Germany?

I attended a high school with a focus on foreign languages in Italy. After I graduated, I moved to Germany and after 6 years of living here I decided to start studying. That is why I was able to pass the C1 test without any problems and submit it when I applied to HSRM.

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

In terms of studies, the biggest difference is the cost. In Italy, studies cost about twice as much per year. In addition, one has to pay hidden costs such as books, etc. Furthermore, our welfare system in Italy is not particularly well developed. A fact that I have to consider for my job search after graduatin, as I'm studying social work. I come from southern Italy, where the income-to-cost-of-living ratio is very unfavorable. I feel like the mentality is relatively outdated and I have always felt uncomfortable in my home country.

How did you find out about Hochschule RheinMain?

I found out about Hochschule RheinMain from friends and acquaintances who are studying here.

How did you find out about the Social Work degree program? What is so special about it?

I was initially interested in the part-time BASA online program, but I didn't meet the admission requirements. One semester later, I applied for the on-site bachelor's degree program in Social Work and received a positive re-registration. I think the organization of the degree program is particularly good, because we have lectures in small groups. This allows for regular and intensive exchange with fellow students and lecturers. The university also has partnerships with companies where it would be possible to complete the compulsory internship, which is of course very helpful.

What are your academic appointments after your studies?

I'm not sure yet where I would like to work after I graduate. I don't know the social structures in Germany very well because they are very different from those in Italy. One area that appeals to me is women's aid.

In terms of support for international students, what else would you like to see?

I feel in good hands at Hochschule RheinMain. My faculty offers the service “Proof my Paper”, where students from a higher semester who are German native speakers help proofreading assignments. This offer has helped me incredibly during my studies. I also had the opportunity to significantly improve my language skills. As I'm from the EU, I'm not aware of any other offers because they don't usually apply to me.

Do you have any important tips for new international students on how to familiarize themselves with their new surroundings, the university and their program?

Be brave and ask for help! From my experience, I can say that the university staff is always helpful and wants to help us to have successful studies, no matter where you come from. It's completely understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed in the beginning. It's difficult to grasp all that is offered straight away. That's why the university offers peer-mentoring groups, free mental health support and useful support services for international students. Take advantage of everything offered to us!

Thank you for answering our questions and all the best!