Adaeze Pauline Duruemezuo – Level 3 – Business Management & Human Resources Management
Kempten University of Applied Sciences, Germany
Introduction
As I approach the end of my semester abroad in Kempten, Germany, I find myself filled with immense gratitude and reflection. This experience has exceeded all expectations, both academically and personally. Studying abroad has not only shaped my professional outlook but also strengthened me as an individual. I am deeply thankful to the Lisa Persdotter Simonyi Fund for making this life-changing journey possible.
Why Germany?
Before arriving in Kempten, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but Germany quickly felt like the right place for me. I chose to give Germany a chance out of curiosity and a long-standing interest in the language and culture. Back in Italy, I attended a language-focused high school where I studied both Spanish and German for five years. While Spanish culture always felt familiar due to its many similarities with Italian culture, I had never truly explored or immersed myself in German culture. I figured this was a “now or never” opportunity, and I’m so glad I took it. The structure, efficiency, and lifestyle in Germany resonate with me in a way I hadn’t anticipated. This experience has inspired me to seriously consider moving to Germany after graduation to begin my career in Human Resources. I’ve found a sense of belonging, purpose, and possibility here that I’m eager to hold on to.
Before leaving, I was naturally a bit anxious, since I didn’t know exactly what to expect, and the idea of starting over somewhere unfamiliar was daunting. So, to ease my worries, I reached out to other QMU students who had previously been on a semester abroad. Their stories and encouragement filled me with enthusiasm and excitement, so much so that I couldn’t wait to leave! Their firsthand advice helped me shift my perspective from nervousness to curiosity and made me look forward to everything this adventure could bring.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Kempten is surprisingly affordable, especially compared to major UK cities. Rent for a student studio apartment ranged from €300 to €350 per month, which is an incredible price for a fully equipped private space. I chose a studio to enjoy greater comfort and independence, and I spent time making it feel like home decorating, organizing, and adding personal touches to reflect who I am.
For those on tighter budgets, shared accommodation is even more affordable, with rooms available for around €200 per month. These come with a private bedroom but shared kitchen and bathroom facilities with 4–5 other students. While many exchange students I met were happy with shared living, I personally valued having my own space, especially since it allowed me to fully decompress and focus on my studies.
Finances
All my expenses so far have been covered through my personal savings, money that I set aside by working part-time in Edinburgh the year before my exchange, and the generous support of the Lisa Persdotter Simonyi Fund.
Given the high cost of living in Edinburgh and the fact that I was prioritizing university while working part-time, my savings were modest. That’s why the support from the Lisa Persdotter Simonyi Fund made all the difference. It gave me peace of mind and allowed me to experience Germany without the constant stress of finances.
Looking back, this exchange would not have been possible without that financial support. The funding gave me the freedom to fully engage with my experience, to study hard, travel, and connect with other cultures in a meaningful way.
Education & the German Study System
One of the most enriching aspects of this semester was experiencing a different educational system. Unlike the UK, where lectures often dominate, classes in Kempten were highly interactive, it was almost like having seminars all the time. We were encouraged to discuss, debate, and question ideas rather than just absorb them.
In every business-related subject I took, we were required to deliver weekly presentations. I was surprised by how much emphasis the German academic system places on presenting, but I quickly came to appreciate its value. These tasks helped me sharpen my public speaking skills, learn how to structure arguments persuasively, and back up my ideas with evidence. I truly believe this approach helps students prepare for the real world, where presenting, persuading, and advocating for ideas are essential professional skills.
Personal Growth & Independence
This experience has been one of tremendous personal growth. Living in a foreign country without family support meant I had to take full responsibility for every aspect of daily life, from registering my residence and attending medical appointments in a different language, to budgeting and creating a sense of stability and comfort all by myself.
There were stressful moments, of course, like the time I went in for what I thought was just a routine dentist check-up, only to be told I needed a minor yet important quick surgery. I remember texting my friends in a panic, completely stressed and all over the place, trying to process everything. It felt surreal, and totally unexpected, but looking back, it’s actually become one of those funny stories my friends and I laugh about now. What felt like chaos at the time turned out fine in the end, it was sorted quickly, efficiently, and in the safest way possible, which honestly reassured me more than anything.
Overcoming those challenges has definitely made me more adaptable, resilient, and confident. One of the proudest achievements of my time here was managing everything in German, from renting my accommodation to attending health appointments. While I had studied German for five years in high school, this immersion helped me brush it up and improve it significantly. Now, I can comfortably hold conversations, understand documents, and navigate everyday life in German.
Cultural Exposure & Intercultural Skills
Living and studying in Germany gave me invaluable cultural exposure and improved my intercultural communication, both essential for my future career in Human Resources. I learned how to appreciate different worldviews, adapt to new social norms, and build connections with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Through classes, social events, and travel, I interacted with people from all over the world. This cultural melting pot not only broadened my worldview but also helped me develop deeper empathy and awareness, which I’ll carry forward in both my personal and professional life.
Travel & New Connections
Thanks to the Deutschland Ticket, I was able to travel widely within Germany. I explored cities like Munich, Stuttgart, Nuremberg, Augsburg, Ulm, Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, and many more, each offering something unique, from vibrant art scenes to historical landmarks.
These travel experiences were not just sightseeing trips; they were moments of learning, bonding, and self-discovery. I often travelled with friends from different cultural backgrounds, and each journey became a memory I’ll treasure for years to come.
Conclusion
To those considering studying abroad, and to those who support students like me I want to say: this experience matters. It shapes people in ways that traditional classroom learning cannot. As a quote I love says:
“People who moved abroad alone in their 20s, handled bank accounts, visas, taxes, jobs, accommodations, insurances and cultural differences, these people fear nothing anymore.”
And I completely stand by it.
