Berichte von Bewohnern
Maria Alfredsson
This semester I had the opportunity to study abroad in a German city. I choose Mannheim because it seemed like a convenient city to live in. I got the wonderful opportunity by the Ekkehard Foundation to stay at L2 – 2-4, which is a guesthouse to the University of Mannheim. I want to send my most thankful regard to the Ekkehard Foundation for given me such a nice place to stay.
The flat which I lived in was convenient in many ways. It was only a street between my apartment and the school which made it possible for me to go home and study between the classes if I wanted to, which I found very great. The apartment was also very close to the inner city which meant that I could walk to any place in the so called quadrate. Not only the location was convenient, the fact that I only paid a monthly rent of 80 euro made my living much easier and I cannot really describe how thankful I am. I shared the flat with two really nice girls, one Chinese girl who I spoke English with and one Hungarian girl who I spoke German with. I believe that I, through speaking whit these nice girls, have improved both my English and German language very much.
To have been able to study in another country has given me so much. I´m glad that I had the opportunity to study at the University of Mannheim, I studied at the faculty of BWL and I felt that the school had a high quality and that the lectures were professional. I thought that it was very good that there were some activities arranged such as the running – dinner and the VISUM pub crawl that made it easier to meet new people. I also thought that it was good that the L2 - house made some events so that the people in the house could get the opportunity to get to know each other.
I liked the fact that the school was offering different kinds of sport activities to practice.
As a whole I really liked Mannheim as a city to live in, the city has a really great atmosphere and, as I mentioned before, since I lived in L2 – 2-4 I had a convenient distance to as well the school, grocery stores, training places, to sum up to everything within the quadrate.
Last year when I drove through the city just to see how it looked like, I drove past the L2 – 2-4 building and if someone had told me then that I was going to live there during my staying in Mannheim I would have thought that they were joking. But I really got the chance to live there and for that I once again send my most thankful regards to the Ekkehard Foundation who made my staying in Mannheim very pleasant.
Study Experience at the University of Mannheim - Sandra Almanza Puente
Fall-Winter 2011 - IPADE Business School - Mexico
The main reason to choose The University of Mannheim as my exchange program is that it is one of the most important Universities in Germany. It is awarded with the National “Excellence Initiative” by the Mannheim Graduate School of Economic and Social Sciences.
The Business School of the University offers a wide range of study programs. In my exchange program I selected the following subjects:
- Corporate Governance
- Organizational Theory and Design
- Marketing Strategy
- Sales Management and Customer Relationship
All of them are related to my interest in Business & Leadership. In addition the University is one of the most beautiful universities. I enjoyed the palace rooms, libraries, cafeterias and garden spaces.
Studying in Germany was an enriching experience in many aspects. I started to learn the German Language; I attended interesting and international classes in which I could interact with German people and also people from other countries like China, France, Taiwan, etc.
I could appreciate some German cultural values like punctuality, accountability, and organization.
The Welcome Center is a great space to mix cultural, social and academic activities in a very nice environment. The location is so convenient, that you can choose between study at home or study at any hour at the university. The administration staff always is caring about your needs and concerns, and also they share with you the most important German Traditions (Food, Festivals, and Christmas Party)
These 4 months have been a wonderful experience in terms not only of learning but also in terms of cultural experiences
I am really grateful with Welcome Center and Ekkehard Foundation for give me the opportunity of being a scholarship holder. It is an honor to be part of a great group that cares of academic, cultural and social values.
Rebekah Bray, Studying Abroad in Mannheim
My experiences here in Mannheim, Germany have been some of the best of my life. It hasn’t been easy or comfortable all the time, but I truly believe that in my short time here, I’ve already learned so many valuable things. I’ve never lived in a country besides the one in which I was born until now. Living in a foreign country with a completely different language and culture has also taught me a great deal about being an adult- it has forced me to rely on my instincts and make my own mistakes. I am so grateful to all of the kind and generous inhabitants of Mannheim who have helped me transition into my life here.
One of the greatest aids in making my experience here so pleasant has been the wonderful apartment that was provided to me. It is such a nice place to live, and the location could not be any better. I feel so blessed to have been given such a gift, and I cannot express my thanks to the individuals who made this possible. The money that I’ve saved this semester on paying rent will allow me to travel and experience more new cultures, and it will also allow me to stay here and study for another semester! I cannot wait to see what is in store in the coming months, and it is such a relief to know that I am able to save some money to live on in the future, so again, thank you so much.
The biggest challenge for me living in Germany has been with navigation. In the city where I attend college in the United States, I own a car. In fact, I can’t even get to school except by driving myself. Additionally, anywhere I went in the city, or if I traveled to another area, I drove. I never used maps, only a GPS system that would simply tell me the way. Here in Germany I have no car, and I’ve been forced to learn to use both the highly effective transportation system here as well as maps. I got lost a lot in the beginning, but with time and help I am happy to report that I have developed basic navigational skills! Furthermore, I am no longer afraid to travel to a new city with only a map and basic logic, because I know that I now have the skills to find the right way.
My favorite thing about Germany, and Europe in general, is the majestic beauty of its architecture. Even in the most seemingly insignificant old building, there are subtle, beautiful designs that preserve a piece of history for everyone to treasure. All the time in Germany I’ll be walking down the street, and a building will catch my eye, and I have to take a moment to admire it. It is so fascinating to get to live in a place where these structures are more frequent than new buildings. I can see and feel so much rich history all around me, and it is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced to live in a place like this.
I have traveled to several local towns so far, including Speyer, Frankfurt, Berlin, Heidelberg, and Baden-Baden. I am currently planning more trips to other towns in Germany, and I can’t wait. I am also organizing a trip shortly to other countries in Europe including the Netherlands, Spain, France, and Austria. I love to travel, and to see the lives of people of other cultures. I’m so excited to use the skills that I’ve acquired here in Mannheim in order to have safe, fun, and unforgettable travels in Germany and all of Europe!
I have been in Mannheim for two months, and already I am wondering how I will ever leave it. I have learned so many things from the people and the traditions of this city, and I know that I will treasure the experiences that I have had here for the rest of my life. For the first time, I feel like a truly independent adult, and I look forward to facing all of the blessings and the challenges that the future holds.
My experience in my International Exchange Semester
There is so much to say about my exchange semester and how privileged I feel of receiving this scholarship, which gave me the opportunity to better experience Mannheim University. I want to start by putting things into context about why this has resulted for me a quite unique experience: Firstly, that this has been the first experience in which I have been out of my hometown for a whole semester; living and studying in my hometown means, of course, that I have always been subject to the attentions & comforts of family life, and basically not having to worry about much more than studying for my Degree. Secondly, I have therefore been living the challenges of being independent for the first time in my life... things such as administering your monthly expense budget, washing your clothes, cooking for yourself, and battling a cross-cultural barrier called language, apart from having only to study for University results quite tough. Thirdly, because the fact of having the opportunity to share this experience with two roommates who are native from two different continents from mine has been a door to learn more about their cultures, customs & traditions.
Universität Mannheim, among the best in Germany in the Business & Economics fields, has proven up to now that it has provided me with enriching experiences very different from my hometown Institute. The professional sense that most of the teachers incorporate into their courses contributes to a more precise representation of reality in the way businesses are currently working. This has worked positively for me, because it has been helpful to conceive a better image of the way business and the institutional framework functions in Germany, as well as in the European Union. I have really liked the fact that here teachers are actually regularly involved with the outer world, and are constantly updating the lessons that they consider will serve us best for our future. Bringing guest speakers to class frequently and organizing school-trips (which has happened in a couple of my classes) are the cherry on the cake.
Having received this scholarship obviously also gave me the opportunity to travel more around Europe. This makes me return more satisfied to my country, and with more knowledge and experiences about culture in Europe.
I want to thank the Foundation because I really enjoyed the comfortable life near the University in the dormitory of the Ekkehard Foundation. The apartment was nice, had a very convenient location, my flat mates were incredible persons, and we had a very fine environment. In summary, I had a very good time during my stance in Mannheim and I would like to thank the Ekkehard Foundation for contributing to such great experience!
Sincerely,
Guillermo Castillo
Exchange student for the Summer Semester 2011 ITESM, Monterrey, Mexico
Haibo Chen, "My Exchange Life in Mannheim"
Germany locates in the centre of Europe; it has sophisticated industries; people are punctual and doing things scientifically and precisely; here is full of tasty beer and sausages; there is a top ranking business school sited in a beautiful baroque palace – that was my initial impression of Germany before I landed on this continent and the reasons that why I chosen here as my exchange city. It is amazed how quickly the time flies, as the completion of the semester, my exchange life in Germany is coming to the end. Look back the year, it is a precious experience for me through study, activities, accommodation and travelling.
In the aspect of study experience in Mannheim, I was encouraged to be more practical, term-oriented and it assists me to enhance the comprehensive ability, especially the presentation skills. Due to the size of seminar, every student has opportunity to present in class. Moreover, the university offers a wide range of courses that crossing different academic fields such as business administration, social science, finance and languages etc. The free choices of course load; several German culture and language classes that designed for exchange students are my favourite. It pushed my comprehension of this country from surf into inside, which developed my knowledge and acquisition.
It is no debt that the student would not get bored during the semester; there are a bunch of student's activities like parties, excursions, special events and sport programme. The student organizations are well organized and create a fantastic environment for meeting friends and communication; the Speyer bike tour, Frankfurt Stock Exchange Market inspiration and European Space Operation Centre trip are memorable; and the ballroom dance, jazz and skating classes are interesting. It is hard to select which is going to attend from the dizzying options.
I believe that the university guesthouse, which I am staying, is one of the best student accommodations. It generates the magnificent atmosphere that makes tenants like staying at home. The perfect location, friendly staff, safety tips and useful information, clean living environment and thoughtful events and facilitates make the life more brilliant and exchange experience more remarkable. It was such a wonderful incident to watch Mozart's "Magic Flute" with the housemates in National Theatre.
Because of its location and efficient train system, it is perfect for travelling around and to see something different. The regional cultural diversity stimulates exchange students to come across various countries. Simultaneously, the cultural shock adjusts the original impression of nations; it allows the imagination to be more real and reduces the misunderstanding and stereotype. I have tried the unexpected delicious curry Wrust that is the most popular snake food in Germany which I did not know before. I have realised not every German is punctual and scientific, but they retain the extraordinary manufacturing and transportation system.
This year is special that I met one of my dreams; the experience is fabulous that brings me lots of knowledge, which cannot be measured; the new friends helped me to go through many difficulties. I will miss Deutschland and the year in Mannheim.
Dominique Chouinard, "Study experience in Mannheim"
To the Ekkehard Foundation,
I decided to go to the University of Mannheim because I felt the university responded to my needs. I wanted to go to a university that had a solid academic reputation in which I would feel welcome. I have to say that my study at the University of Mannheim was everything I had hoped it would be and more. The fact that I was given the opportunity to live in L2 made everything even better.
I am so grateful to have stayed in this apartment and especially at the renting price I was paying. The fact that this foundation gave me a rent allowance made my stay in Mannheim a lot easier since it really helped me financially. I am a self-sufficient student, I pay everything myself from the money I earn while working during school. I had saved my money for a long time before coming to Mannheim so being awarded the scholarship from the foundation helped me a lot. I t allowed me to be more free and to enjoy even more my exchange experience. It took the stress away and helped me lighten up my budget. I loved living in that building, I felt as though it was the best location in the whole city. I made some great friends while being on exchange, made some terrific people and went to a school I would recommend to anyone.
I was very impressed by the quality of the teaching at the university. The teachers, the work, and the teaching methods in general reached my expectations. I feel that the University of Mannheim is very organised and the people at the international office do their job very well. They know that it can be hard for some students who come on exchange and they have taken every measure to help everybody include themselves among others. They take charge and make sure that us, the students, are well surrounded in the beginning of our stay. I am really happy I chose Mannheim and especially Germany for my exchange.
I feel I have learned a lot during those months being way form home and this experience is priceless to me. If I had to do it all over again I would definitely choose Mannheim again because I had a wonderful time during my exchange. I will definitely recommend it to my fellow classmates back in Quebec, Canada when they consider studying abroad. I would like to thank the foundation for letting me stay in L2 during my exchange. It was extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Dominique Chouinard, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
Rebeccah Dawson
Es war eine schöne Überraschung, als ich herausgefunden habe, dass ich die Ekkehard Stiftung während meines Studiums in Mannheim bekommen wurde. Ich bekam damit nicht nur eine geringen Mietbetrag aber auch ein sehr schönes Zuhause, das sehr an der Universität als auch mitten in der Stadt lag. Das war der perfekte Ort, um eine Bilanz zwischen Studium und Freizeit zu erreichen. Ich persönlich finde es unheimlich wichtig, ein gemütliches Apartment zu haben, wo man sich wohl fühlen kann, besonders im Ausland. Das IBZ in L2 hat diese Situation mehr als gefüllt.
Ich hatte schon zwei Jahre in Deutschland gewohnt, bevor ich nach Mannheim kam, und mein Jahr in Mannheim hatte die anderen ganz und gar übertroffen. Die Stadt selbst ist keine typische Stadt, woran man denkt, wenn man an Deutschland denkt. Amerikaner denken, zum Beispiel, an Städte wie Heidelberg oder Berlin, die ein bisschen märchenhaft sind, wenn die über Deutschland nachdenken. Mannheim hat aber für mich ganz Deutschland repräsentiert, indem die Bevölkerung aus viele verschiedenen Gegenden und Ländern besteht. Außerdem macht die Universität die Stadt zu etwas ganz besonderes. Ich werde nie wieder sagen können, dass ich in einem Schloss unterrichtet habe! Und es war auch während meines Studiums in Mannheim, das ich die Möglichkeit bekam, neue Freunde kennen zu lernen. Ich habe diese Gelegenheit genutzt- ich habe viele Ländern besucht, wovon ich nie jemals geträumt habe; ich habe jede Woche Fußball überall in der Stadt gespielt; ich bin auf Festen gegangen- und dadurch habe ich Freundschaften gepflegt, die auch einen Ozean überschreiten können. Mein Jahr in Mannheim war mehr als ein Studium, es war eine Lebenserfahrung. Es wurde alles durch die Ekkehard Stiftung ermöglicht, denn ohne solche Großzugigkeit, hätte ich als Graduate Student es mir nie geleistet, mein Jahr in Mannheim zu haben. Und dafür bin ich sehr dankbar.
Rebeccah Dawson, 16. Februar 2008
Sophia Eilbacher, Ekkehard Foudation Report
My study abroad experience has been educational both academically and socially. What I have valued most is the people that I have met during my stay. While the majority of my study abroad was spent exploring Mannheim, I was able to spend a great deal of my time exploring Eastern and Western Europe. Thus far, I have traveled within Germany, The Netherlands, Hungary, Ireland, and Czech Republic. I have seen some of the most beautiful cities in the world, and am so grateful to the Ekkehard Foundation for making that opportunity possible. Merely a few months before I left the United States, I had notified my home university that I would not be able to study abroad as I had planned. I found that it would be impossible to afford any of the housing within the university or any outside accommodation. Fortunately, my study abroad advisor was able to contact the Ekkehard Foundation and arrange my stay with the organization. As a result, I have had one of the greatest experiences of my entire life.
The University of Mannheim has been one of my most reliable aids during my stay in Germany. I arrived in this country completely clueless as to how to build a life in Mannheim for the next four months. My greatest worry was that I would feel like an outsider during the time of my travel. However, I was relieved to find that the University, as well as the German people, provided me a tremendous amount of comfort that allowed me to establish a home for the past four months. The Welcome Centre was ready to answer any and all questions I had throughout my stay. I was able to obtain a phone, find an affordable grocery store, and do my laundry with ease. All the small comforts of home that can be easily overlooked were accounted for and taken care of by the considerate people of Mannheim. There was no question that I had that went unanswered.
What I will miss most about my journey to Germany will undoubtedly be the incredible friendships that I have made. The exchange program has allowed me to meet people from Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, France, Africa, as well as more people from my home country. There were countless events, parties, and trips planned by the student programs at Mannheim that made my transition here nearly seamless. I was told by my home university to be prepared for home sickness during my study abroad. However, I am grateful that the kindness and thoughtfulness of my friends here have made my home sickness very slight. For instance, I had my 21st birthday last week, and was happily surprised with a surprise birthday party organized by all my closest friends here. That, and many other nights, will one to remember.
I feel confident in saying that I will return to Europe in the near future. I have nothing but gratefulness towards the German people, and I can only hope that other exchange students feel the same. I arrived in this country without any experience in the German language, and leave feeling that I can comfortably function within this culture. I experienced Oktoberfest, Wurstmarkt in Bad Dürkheim, the Berlin Wall memorial, several scenic routes in nearby towns, visits with my family in Westheim, the Christmas Markets, and countless other experiences. I am confident that I will carry this experience with me for the rest of my life.
Aldo ten Geuzendam, "Mein Studium in Mannheim"
Ich möchte hier gerne die Möglichkeit nutzen Ihnen etwas über meine Erfahrungen in Mannheim zu erzählen.
Anfang August bin ich in Mannheim angekommen und ins IBZ eingezogen. Vorher hatte das AAA mir schon informiert was ich alles tun sollte und deshalb ist das einziehen ohne große Probleme verlaufen. Ich war sehr zufrieden mit der Wohnung, mein Zimmer war nicht so groß aber bequem mit alles was ein Student braucht Schreibtisch, Bett, Schrank, Internetanschluss und sogar einen Fernseher. Die Lage des Hauses war auch sehr positiv, im Zentrum der Stadt nicht weit von Geschäfte, Bahnhof und natürlich der Uni die nur zwei Minuten entfernt war. Meine zwei Mitbewohner waren sehr nett wir konnten uns gut verstehen haben oft miteinander gegessen und sind Freunden geworden.
Die Vorlesungen fingen zwar erst in September an, aber ich wollte gerne die Stadt, die Uni und schon einige Leute kennenlernen. Deshalb hatte ich mich für die Internationale Sommerakademie angemeldet und ich war nicht alleine. Zusammen mit ungefähr 150 Leute aus aller Welt haben wir vor vier Wochen Deutsch gelernt, Seminare besucht, Ausfluge gemacht und einfach Spaß gemacht. Sie können verstehen, dass ich nach diese vier Wochen schon gut zuhause war in Mannheim und gut vorbereitet war für die Unterrichte in September.
Anfang September fing die Uni an, ich hatte mich für folgende vier Vorlesungen entschieden: Methoden der Logistik Planung, Finanzwirtschaft II, Internes Rechnungswesen I und Makroökonomik B für insgesamt 29 Credits. Daneben hatte ich mich auch noch angemeldet für einen Kurs des AAAs für Austauchstudenten mit der Name Fachsprache Betriebswirtschaftlehre. Während der Woche hatte ich Vorlesungen, Übungen und Tutorien als Unterrichtsstunden. Dabei kamen noch die Vor- und Nachbereitungen der Unterrichte und die Gruppenarbeit Stunden um Aufgabeblätter zu lösen und eine Projektarbeit zu schreiben.
Sie sehen, dass ich ziemlich beschäftigt war an der Uni aber ich hatte auch noch Zeit andere Sachen zu tun neben studieren. So gab es zum Beispiel Abends oft interessante Vorträge durch Vertreter der Wirtschaft organisiert von Studentenvereine in Bereich Marketing, Finanzierung oder Unternehmensschaft. Diese Vorträge waren für mich als Austauchstudent sehr interessant da ich so die Deutsche Wirtschaft besser kennen lernen könnte. In meiner Freizeit habe ich auch viele Ausfluge gemacht, in der Umgebung Mannheims sind viele schöne Städte die ich besucht habe wie Heidelberg oder Neustadt aber auch ein bisschen weiter wie Frankfurt, Stuttgart oder Würzburg.
Ich hoffe Sie haben einen kurzen Eindruck bekommen über meine Erfahrungen in Mannheim. Es ist für seine persönliche Entwicklung sehr gut um einige Monaten im Ausland zu verbringen, man trifft neue Menschen, lebt in einer andere Umgebung und Kultur, man spricht eine fremde Sprache und so viel mehr. Für mich war das eine sehr positive Erfahrung, die mir noch lange beeinflussen wird. Ich möchte hier auch die Möglichkeit nutzen Ihnen recht herzlich zu bedanken mir im IBZ wohnen zu lassen während meines Studiums in Mannheim. Es war ein Vorrecht im IBZ wohnen zu dürfen und ich hoffe, dass Sie noch viele internationale Studenten begrüßen dürfen, die die gleichen Erfahrungen erleben können als ich.
Aldo ten Geuzendam, 19. Februar 2008
Eniko Hámori, "Auslandssemester in Mannheim – Brief an Ekkehard Stiftung"
Ich habe mit meinem Studium in Ungarn als Bachelor angefangen, in der Fachrichtung BWL. Bei uns ist es nicht obligatorisch, ein Semester an einer ausländischen Universität zu studieren, aber ich habe gedacht, dass man unbedingt ein Semester im Ausland verbringen muss, um neuen Erlebnisse und Erfahrungen zu sammeln, und um ein anderes Bildungssystem und eine andere Kultur kennen zu lernen. Und das war vielleicht die beste Entscheidung in meinem Leben. Ich wollte an der besten Universität für BWL studieren, und von vielen habe ich gehört, außerdem viele Statistiken zeigen es auch, dass die Uni Mannheim eine von den besten Universitäten in diesem Bereich ist. Deshalb habe ich mich hier beworben, und habe die Möglichkeit bekommen, hier ein Jahr lang als Erasmus Studentin zu studieren.
Ich hatte deutschsprachigen Fächer an der Uni Mannheim, alle waren auf sehr hohem Niveau unterrichtet. Es war nicht immer einfach, die gleichen Anforderungen zu erfüllen, wie die deutschen Studenten, aber ich habe immer Hilfe und Unterstützung von der Seite der Universität bekommen. Alle Mitarbeiter der Universität waren jederzeit hilfsbereit und freundlich, an denen sich man immer wenden konnte. Es war auch eine sehr große Hilfe, dass ich in dem zweiten Semester in dem Gästehaus der Universität wohnen durfte. Diese Umgebung hat die besten Bedingungen für mein Studium gesichert.
Dieses Jahr war ein von den besten Jahren in meinem Leben. Ich hatte die Möglichkeit, ein Teil von Deutschland kennen zu lernen, ich konnte mich beruflich weiterentwickeln, und von einem europaweit bekanntem Professor Vorlesungen hören, außerdem konnte ich vielen Freunden aus der ganzen Welt kennen lernen. Durch das Akademische Auslandsamt wurde ich auch über eine Praktikumsmöglichkeit informiert. Dieses studienbegleitende Praktikum habe ich bei der Firma Freudenberg absolviert. Ich denke, dass ich meine Zeit in Deutschland völlig ausgenutzt und genossen habe.
Zwar ich in diesen zwei Semester sehr beschäftigt war, es hat sich auf jeden Fall gelohnt, da ich solche Erfahrungen gesammelt habe, die mir in meinem weiteren Leben viel helfen werden. Ich bin sehr dankbar, dass ich dieses Stipendium von der Ekkehard Stiftung bekommen habe, da es mein Studentenleben in diesem Semester viel erleichtert hat. Zwar tut es mir Leid, dass ich bald wegfahren muss, ich werde mich an diese Zeit in Mannheim immer froh und dankbar erinnern.
Mit freundlichen Grüßen: Eniko Hámori
Jiang
I chose University of Mannheim due to its great reputation and high quality teaching, especially in the field of accounting and finance that I’m interested in. This learning experience greatly complements with my study of general management in Canada. I’ve learned not only advanced theoretical knowledge here but also empirical and practical methods to understand the real world. The teachers here are all experts in the area and are very patient and kind to answer students’ question. I would say you really need to study hard at Mannheim but you would get great payoff if you invest time and efforts.
The international office here also does a great job to organize a lot of events and city trips which give me the opportunity to make friends with other exchange students and enjoy life in Germany.
When I first got email informing that I got a room in L2,2-4 by lottery, I felt so lucky. I loved living here, a great location, a cozy apartment, a cheap rent and most importantly, friendly welcome center staff. It also provides us a convenient place to talk about case studies or travel plans.
The exchange experience at Mannheim left great memories for me. And I really appreciate Ekkehard Foundation for this wonderful offer. I am sure that I make a right choice coming to study at University of Mannheim!
Diego Kelen
My name is Diego Kelen, I'm Brazilian and spent the first semester of 2010 as exchange student of University Mannheim. These six months were for sure the best I have ever lived. I made many friends from different countries, I had the opportunity to improve my german skills, my English skills, I traveled to more than 10 european countries and got really important business administration content from the university , that will be very usefull in my future studies and professional experiences in Brazil. I attended six courses in University Mannheim: Investments II, Earnings Management, Corporate Social Responsibility, Corporate Governance, Strategic Management II and Marketing Plannung und Controlling (in german).
The experience I had in Germany was that good for me that I want to stay here more time. I was looking for a internship in Marketing for the next six months and in May I finally got it. I going to work in Kaercher, a producer of cleaning machines located in Winnenden (close to Stuttgart). I hope that is going to be an amazing experience and I'll really see how are the daily business of german companys, I'll have the opportunity to improve my german skills and lern about category management.
The experience I had in the guesthouse M2 of the university was perfect as well. I stayed in a flat in the 5th floor , sharing the flat with two other exchange students of the university, one from USA, Cameron and the other from Canada, Derek. The guesthouse is very close to the university and we can go anytime to the library to study and don't waste time taking buses or trams. The staff of the welcome center was very helpful, polite and friendly . All the times me and my flatmates had any problem regarding anything that was not working in our flat or any doubt we had, they were ready to help us and give us support. I remembered the first day when I arrived in Mannheim on a Sunday at 3am after 17 hours travelling in a day that was snowing too much and went to the place I arranged with the welcome center to get my keys. The keys were in the right place, with a welcome letter and a pack of Gumibaer. I got in the flat and everything was organized, clean, all the documents and advises about Mannheim on the table. I really felt safe and at home after that. I would really like to thank the Ekkehard Foundation to provide this kind of place for international students, researchers and professors. The rent allowance was very important for me because all the costs in Europe are very high, specially for people that come from countries like mine where the currency worths a third of euro.
Thank you very much for everything,
Diego Kelen
Jolita Matulaityte, "DIE EKKEHARD - STIFTUNG"
Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,
mein Name ist Jolita Matulaityte. Ich bin eine Studentin aus Litauen und studiere Wirtschaftswissenschaften an der Universität Vilnius Fakultät für Wirtschaftswissenschaften. Im Jahre 2007/2008 habe ich an der Universität Mannheim Betriebswirtschaftslehre als Austauschstudentin studiert. Während meines Studiums an der Universität Mannheim habe ich als Stipendiatin der Ekkehard-Stiftung für einen geringen Mietbeitrag in einem der Gästehäuser der Universität (L2, 2-4, 41) gewohnt, wo ich mich sehr wohl gefühlt habe. Dafür bin ich sehr dankbar.
Diese 5 Monate, die ich in Mannheim verbracht habe, sind für mich eine der besten Zeiten in meinem Leben. Erstens, hatte ich eine Möglichkeit an der ausgezeichneten Universität Deutschlands zu studieren, wo das Bildungsniveau sehr hoch und die Universität selbst sehr schön und gemütlich ist. Hier gibt es eine grosse Wahl der interessanten und nützlichen Fächer, wo man eine Menge der Kenntnissen bekommen kann. Für mich habe ich vier Fächer: Unternehmensfinanzierung, Marketing, Zeitreihenanalyse und Finanzmarktökonometrie, und auch drei Deutschsprachkursen: Fachsprache BWL, Fachsprache Finanzmärkte und deutsche Grammatik, ausgewählt. Das alle hat mir sehr gut gefallen, weil ich nicht nur meine deutsche und englische Sprachkenntnisse verbessert, sondern auch meine wirtschaftliche Kenntnisse erweitert habe. Es war mir sehr angenehm, die Unterrichten zu besuchen, weil alle Lehrer sehr freundlich, kompetent und immer hilfsbereit waren. Zweitens, habe ich während meines Studiums ein sehr gemütliches Zimmer gehabt, wo ich mich immer wie zuhause gefühlt habe. Drittens, habe ich sehr gute Freunde gefunden, mit denen wir uns auch bis heute wie damals kommunitieren. Viertens, habe ich viele interessante Sehenswürdigkeiten Deutschlands gesehen, wie auch viel neues über deutsche Kultur und Geschichte erfahren.
Mit einem Wort, finde ich mein Studium in Mannheim toll. Ich würde sehr gern nochmal hier zurückkommen.
Mit freundlichen Grüßen
Jolita Matulaityte, 18. Februar 2008
Cameron Musler, "Study Experience at the University of Mannheim"
At first, when I arrived in Mannheim during the summer I glanced at the surrounding dilapidated and graffitied buildings in Jungbusch and literally fell into my bed at Hafenstrasse and released a long stream of tears. Not only was I jetlagged from my trip but I was already starting to regret my decision to study in Mannheim. However, in almost no time the Summer Academy in Mannheim turned into one of the best experiences of my life. I had the opportunity to improve my German and meet friends from all over the world before having to worry about the stress of school. From then things only continued to get better.
For example, after the Summer Academy, I was elated to be able to stay in the M2 housing after receiving a scholarship from the Ekkehard Foundation. Both conveniently located near the University and filled with many amenities, I was more than equipped to start giving it my all during my two semesters at the University. Not only was I able to participate in any class I wanted as an International Student but I found the professors to be interesting and devoted to their teachings. Inspired and in love with the abundant amount of classes offered I took about fifty ECTS hours and correspondingly received nothing lower than an "American B" in them in my first semester alone!
My experience in Germany was not all just about studying though. It was an opportunity to explore German culture and befriend Germans. With the help of Visum (The Society of International Student Partnerships at the University of Mannheim), I was able to make tons of German friends. Visum helped to plan and organize trips that explored the various regions of Germany and hosted parties, which brought Germans and Non-German together. Since the Ekkehard Foundation paid for the majority of my rent, I was able to divert my housing money to traveling! I was able to explore Europe and visit the places I had only ever read about in books. The United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Denmark, Sweden, Croatia, Finland, France, and Estonia were all fascinating in their own way.
As the saying goes in Mannheim, "In Mannheim Weint Man Zweimal" and for me, nothing could be more undeniable than this. In fact, I have already cried multiple times as the waves of friends I have met have left after the Sumer Academy, first semester and second semester. However, despite the pain of seeing friends go, I know the lifelong relationships I have formed are stronger than anything imaginable. I am extremely thankful to the Ekkehard Foundation, and the International Department at the University of Mannheim who rose above and beyond to help make my stay in Germany Wunderbar!
Sincerely, Cameron Musler
Supanida Rangsriseneepitak
Ever since I was a child, I dreamt about studying oversea. Strange lands, exciting places have always fascinated me. Now, owing to the fact that I have had an opportunity to study here at the University of Mannheim, I realized that I have gained so much, learned so much and, definitely, enjoyed so much.
The very first thing that I have learned while studying here is, of course, the language. We all know that it is better to be immersed in it in order to learn any languages effectively. The total German environment has allowed me to learn the language much easier than to study out of textbooks. I have noticed that German is one of the most important languages used in Europe. Although there are still so much more to learn, I am proud that at least I have gained the basic skills of German language. I am certain that this skill would definitely benefits me in the future.
Moreover, due to the fact that the University of Mannheim has been partnered with numerous universities around the world, I have met many international friends and acquaintances here. Not only friendship that could last a lifetime that I have gained, but I have also learned to be more open-minded and accept all the cultural differences. Also, many activities that the VISUM and the international office organized for international students have exposed me to different cultures and lifestyles of German. I have learned to accept all the differences and, surely, gained the broader perspective of the world.
Last but not least, during my exchange life, I have traveled a lot both inside Germany and through out Europe. And in each country, there are many different things to see and learn. I love all the beautiful sceneries and amazing European architecture, which are totally different from where I came from. All the things that I have witnessed will definitely be an unforgettable memory for me. Travel alone taught me to be more careful and more organized. I have learned that we can all make mistakes and we need to learn from them. Without coming here, I would not get a chance to grow up and learn how to live up by my self.
Therefore, as I aforementioned, learning here has been such an indescribable experience for me. Although it was only five months, it has been very worthwhile, as I have learned another language, got to know a lot of international friends, and gained wider perspective through out my traveling. I will definitely recommend my friends and my colleagues to come and study here at the University of Mannheim.
Srisukvattananan: My study experience at the University of Mannheim
Before coming to the University of Mannheim, I imagined what it would be like to study in a Baroque Palace. Various things would come into my mind when I first think of Mannheim. It is the place where I will spend five months of my life living in. As a result, I hoped and looked forward to getting memorable experiences and to broaden my mind in a wider perspective.
Because I used to study in an international school, the multicultural environment has always provided me passion and hunger to learn and experience other cultures and languages. Fortunately I had a chance to come and study at the University of Mannheim and was able to not only experience the German culture but also from other countries. I was able to share my home language and culture with the others as well. One of my favorite quotes of Federico Fellini, an Italian film director once discussed how important it is to learn another language, “A different language is a different vision of life.” By coming here, I had a chance to learn a new language, which definitely gave me another view of life. I learned what the Germans like to do, what do they considered as impolite and much more. I was even able to experience the richness of the German culture during the Oktoberfest. By interacting with people from across the globe, I was better equipped to adjust in a fast-changing world, new lifestyles and customs, which eventually gave me a better understanding of people from different walks of life.
Apart from learning another different culture and language and making new friends, the institute has provided me with the best education. I had a chance to gain new business knowledge and even went on some excursions to see the actual site of some companies. I believe that this was a very rare opportunity that could not be found anywhere else. Besides my studies, I also got a chance to travel to many different countries including France, Austria, Ital and Czech Republic. By seeing the different lifestyles of the people in various countries, it definitely further broaden my way of seeing things.
Many people asked me what I expect to get from this exchange program before coming here. My response was to study, make new friends, experience the German culture and learn a new language. This, however, was a little bit different from what I had imagined. The new things I have learned here are far beyond what I expected to receive during my stay in Mannheim. Not only that I have the opportunity to make new friends across the globe, get the best education, along with the chance to experience Germany’s diversity and enduring history, but I also gained the maturity and skills that will prepare me for the future.
Regarding to the aforementioned reasons, my study experience at the University of Mannheim would be described under one single word, “unforgettable”. I would share this meaningful experience and certainly recommend my peers back in my home university who want to be in the exchange program to choose this university.
STUDY EXPERIENCE AT UNIVERSITY OF MANNHEIM
HWS: September - December 2011
The University of Mannheim is one of the most prestigious and recognized school in Business in Germany. This is my main reason to study my exchange program here. It represents to me an excellent opportunity to develop my skills and knowledge to establish professional and international relations in order to have future business between Germany and Mexico.
Also, Germany offers to me a high level of research and studies guided to practice that provide me the tools to identify and compare opportunities of business, in order to develop high value models that help the current society.
As personal objectives, I was looking for a university that provides me more specialized courses. This kind of courses also can help me to improve my engineering profile adding the business value. The University of Mannheim with all its courses and programs give the students the opportunity to be prepared to the real world based in its case study practice and also its lectures provided by high quality and prepared professor.
I scheduled my arriving to Mannheim one week before in order to have all my documents, payments, visa, etc., done and also have time to attend to the welcome conferences that the University organized to the exchange students, in which it is provided a very useful information about your accommodation, transportation, classes, student programs, the city and more.
My work schema is detailed in the graphic below. It considers all conferences, sessions, case discussions, presentations and business simulators that I could take during this semester. This study program is balanced in different topics in order to show a knowledge development during my weeks in Mannheim and also the distribution of workload of the business school.
As results at the end of my semester I look for:
- Finish my selected courses accomplishing and exceeding the University of Mannheim and IPADE expectatives of my development.
- Acquire business knowledge having the exchange cultural experience (Keep in contact with different people around the world in personal and professional way)
- Complement my engineering profile with the German vision in business.
At the end of my semester I feel very proud of have had the opportunity to come to this wonderful University that really take care of its students and complement all your formation with practice and student programs with high value; giving the tools to develop business around the world.
Best regards.
Pamela Vega Trejo
Zhao Ziping, "Study Report"
I am a BWL student from Shanghai Jiaotong University.
Last semester, thanks for the Uni-Mannheim opportunity, I became an exchange student in Mannheim. And thanks for Ekkehard Foundation, I lived in L2, 2-4, Apt 41-2.
I really enjoyed studying in Uni-Mannheim and living in L2.
I took several courses in BWL. The most impressive thing is that compared with my home university, Uni-Mannheim offered a more international environment to students. All my courses are taught in English. I can learn a lot from the professors’ lecture and their experience. What’s more, in the course which required team discussion, I joined a group composed of classmates from different countries. We spend a lot of time together to polish our presentation and during the time, we became good friends.
L2 is also a wonderful place, not only for its convenient location and comfortable design, but also for my lovely roommates and neighbors!
My best friends in Mannheim are my roommates: Marie from French and Jola from Lithuania. They spoke fluent Germany while I couldn’t. If not with their help, I couldn’t have adapted myself to the new environment so quickly. It’s also fun living with them! We shared the music we like and cooked different food. Now I can cook some western food taught by them for my Chinese friends! We also hold party together in our living room. Marie always took her friends who from south Europe, and Jola took those from East Europe and I took those from Asia, and of course we three also invited our German classmates. Just imagine that all our friends gathered together and everyone had a good time!
L2 has its building talk every 2 week which was organized by Sarah, who is also a Uni-Mannheim student. There are a lot professors and students in L2 and building talk made us know each other. We made pies together, went to theater together and travel together. After building talk, the Iceland mama become our apartment’s best friend. And the Korean professor invited us to drink tea with her. The Chinese professor even go to Hamburg with Marie and I.
What I get from a semester are knowledge, friends, and all these sweet memory.
And I agree that my name and email address to be listed on Ekkehard Foundation homepage. I would love to make friends with former and future Ekkehard scholarship holders.
Zhao Ziping
Juris Žugs
First I want to say big thank you to Ekkehard foundation, which helped to me and actually made my choice to come to Germany and study there, because before I was a bit worried, because I wasn't sure about the living place, so I thought if I don't have a place where to stay (because I didn't get place in dorms, so I was in waiting list) and need to find it by my own, it could rise me very serious problems, because my german language skills were very, very bad and normally you need to speak in native language of the country where you are going, especially if you want to make such deals like renting, buying, working and so on, so I was very surprised and happy when I saw this offer! After that I definitely decided to go to Germany and study abroad this semester.
I want to say another thanks to all welcome centre and international office teams, because they were very kind and warmly greeted us when we arrived and also was always open to questions and never refused to help if it was necessary!
Now bit about studying process! In comparison with Latvia, studying in Germany is much harder, of course I thought it would be harder, but it was even more harder than I thought, but I think I tried to do my best and if you really want to do it and learn new things, than it's not impossible to manage it.
About achievements what I got and reached in this semester! I have improved my german language skills, which I really wanted to improve, because I think it's very good for you if you can speak in various languages and especially if you can speak in native language of that country where you are. Of course I still want and need to improve it much more, but I'm glad, that studying abroad gave me such chance to improve it at least a bit. Also I have learned lots of new stuff which, I hope so, will help me in future. Furthermore I have seen new places and also travelled a bit, so I really glad, that I choose Germany as my place where to study abroad!
Thanks once again to all who made this semester so good for me!