For many, studying in Germany brings images of mostly automobile and mechanical engineering. However, as an urban planner and architect, one often comes across excellent cases from Germany attempting at sustainability, low energy buildings and ‘green city’ planning.
It was this curiosity that first brought me to the University of Stuttgart on a seven-month exchange programme for master’s students sponsored by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). This was both an academic and personal revelation to me and encouraged me to pursue a PhD at the Dresden Leibniz Graduate School in Dresden.
Academically, I found German universities extremely disciplined, yet allowing ample space for individual creativity. Lectures are designed on current development issues with inputs from leading professionals and subject experts. Field trips are encouraged as is hands-on experience. Interactions with faculty are non-hierarchical and open. This allows a good platform for enriching discussion and academic development. The German stereotype of being punctual and methodical does rub on and saves a lot of stress at the time of final report submissions.
Many are daunted by the German language. This was my worry as well, as I hardly knew any German before coming. However, with internationalisation of German universities, it is possible to find several courses taught completely in English. These courses attract students from all over the world, making the classroom experience a true melting pot of ideas. Yes, it is a big advantage to learn the language as it eases your way into everyday tasks such as going to the supermarket or striking a conversation with the locals.
All universities offer language courses at different levels, and volunteer groups in each city also organise ‘conversation evenings’ to assist this process.
German cities, like the universities, are well planned. Public transport is affordable and extremely reliable. In several cities it works round the clock. Universities offer their students semester tickets at reduced prices which allow them to travel for free on all modes of public transport throughout the semester. Accommodation till master’s level is provided through student organisations. It is affordable and an interesting place to meet fellow students. A lot can be learnt while sharing recipes of Indian curry in exchange for Rotkohl (the famous German red cabbage). It is also common for students to share flats (Wohngemeinschaft or WG in German).
An attractive feature of the German education system is the little or no tuition fee as the society views education as a right and not a commodity. It is also possible to stay for up to 18 months after completing your education to look for a suitable job. Such student-friendly policies have facilitated a steady increase in the number of international students here.
My association with Germany has been an enriching experience. Studying abroad has taught me a lot in terms of being independent, dealing with crisis situations and opening up to new ideas and views.
I encourage students to explore the excellent opportunities provided in this ‘Land of ideas’.
The writer is pursuing PhD at the Dresden Leibniz Graduate School, Germany. She is also a Young Ambassador with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
