24/07/2024
Humans of SDAC ✍🏻
#5 - Interview done by Takashi
Here, we meet Alisher Massimov, our youngest and full-energetic, socialized cohort from Kazakhstan.
"I'm from Almaty, which translates to Apple Town in Kazakh. This is because back in the USSR, we were the leading exporter of apples.
I chose this program because I did Erasmus in Germany and because of its education system. It was an excellent experience, so I love Germany. I love the culture here, the traveling opportunities, the good geographical position, and the beautiful language. Germany offers students the opportunity to have a part-time job, and you don't need to pay a lot for your studies, only an administration fee of around 70 Euros per semester, so you just pay for yourself, what you live for, rent, and food. There were few political science programs in Germany in the English language, so I was looking for a mixture of programs. Then I found this SDAC, and I was impressed by the diversity of the program. This was perfect because I like to study a mixture of economics, political science, culture, and history, which I was always interested in.
The first semester was challenging, not in terms of study but of moving to Germany, finding accommodation, and getting used to the lifestyle here. It requires time and flexibility. Tip No.1 is to have suitable accommodation. Then, you'll have a good experience staying in Erlangen. So, take more time looking for accommodation as soon as possible. Right now, I work part-time at Amazon Warehouse three days a week. There are many opportunities to work in Germany while you're a student, but Amazon was a good option for me because my German was not yet sufficient. If I had a good German, I could work in the office, but this job also helps me to provide for myself.
SDAC is one of the most generous faculties because it has what other faculties lack. Our faculty is small, so you have more quality time with professors. Also, our professors have diverse backgrounds in anthropology and fields like politics, economy, business, and cultural studies. Spending time with them helps you get their life advice and learn how to get a professional future.
I want to work in communications or HR management. The German language will be essential if it is in Germany, as I'm working on it now.