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First time I went to Germany in 2003 for the internship at Halle University, in Halle, close to Leipzig. I was working with professor from this university on the engineering geology and paleontology projects. The trip was organized by IAESTE - International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience in Kiev.
Second time I was in Germany in 2004 for 6 months internship in Freiberg, close to Dresden. I was working in a small consultancy company, which was operating on the international market with projects related to the geology and hydrogeology. That was, I would say, the first working and living experience abroad. I was staying long enough to learn the language, culture and get to know many people. Usually, for students it is very easy to get used to the situation, because local people are very open and trying to help if someone has any problems. Also an important point is that local IAESTE office in Freiberg consists only of young people, mostly students. They organize a lot of trips and activities, so foreigners do not feel isolated.
After that I decided that I want to study in Germany. For that I send my application to the Bergakademie Freiberg, university in Freiberg. They have a program called IMRE - International Management of Resources and Environment. It is an MBA course, for 2 years, which is hold in English language only. After I got accepted there as a student, I still had to finish my Masters in Kiev. It was not an easy task to study at two universities and I would not manage it without kind help of Mr. Vyzhva and other professors from our faculty. I am very thankful for all chances they gave me and their patience.
During these 2 years - from 2005 till 2007 I attended different courses, took loots of exams and still survived :) Usually, students live in the dormitories or share the flat with other students. It is also possible to get small jobs, which would bring additional income. But mainly, all time is spent for studying.
If you are interested, I can write more about courses and studying program. My group mates are all from different countries: Thailand, Indonesia, China, Colombia, Macedonia, Mexico, USA, Turkey and Cameroon. It means that I had to learn how to deal with cultural differences we all had. It was very interesting and important experience.
When living abroad, I started to think differently, be more open and learned to deal with different problems. Sometimes, to be successful, one has to make a first step, learn how to communicate and present oneself to other people, so they get interested.
If you have any questions, please, feel free to contact me any time.
Best greetings to the SEG members and to all professors.
Keep in touch,
Viktoriya
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