How to FAU

Master being an international student

Studying abroad is one of the most exciting and informative things you can do as a student. But with being abroad, many questions come hand in hand. At FAU, we want you to know where you can ask questions and get support. Our international student Ani has some advice to make your start at FAU easier.

Welcome to Germany

Before we jump into the interview, check out this video, where we’ve gathered some information which is important for all students moving to Germany. You can learn about visas and entry requirements, accommodation, and registering at the town hall after your arrival in Erlangen.

A chat with Ani

Ani, originally from Armenia, has been an international student at least twice: Here, at FAU, where she’s studying in the Elite Master program “Standards of Decision-Making Across Cultures“, and in Beijing, China, where she spent a term abroad during her master. We chatted to her about tips for fellow internationals, support systems at the uni and what you shouldn’t miss when in Erlangen.

How do you stay in touch with friends and family at home?

My tip is to be in contact as often as you can. It can be difficult because of the time difference but go ahead and plan it if you have to. It’s worth it. Find what works best for you, there is no right or wrong way.

Corona has made many things a little more difficult. How is it going at uni?

This will be the fourth term when people can’t have classes in person, which is unfortunate, so it’s time to get creative. For example, students from our program managed to organize a Christmas party via Zoom for all cohorts. I highly recommend you check if your school has similar events that allow you to connect with other students. If you live in a shared apartment, try to spend a bit more quality time with the people that are actually physically around you. It also makes you feel less lonely. During these tough times, it’s often about figuring out the second-best option.

What’s your advice to new students if they have questions about their programme?

I know that many departments are trying their best to make their new students feel welcome by showing them around – if only virtually. Also, make use of the chance to connect with more senior students if the option opens up to you! People are generally so helpful; knowing that can help make you less hesitant to ask questions.

You’ve lived in Erlangen for a while now: Any spots you recommend everyone visit?

I love spending time in nature, and there are a lot of spots in Erlangen where you can go even during Corona times because they are not crowded. I recommend checking out the Dechsendorfer Weiher, a pond a few minutes from Erlangen, or the Tennenloher Forst, a forest also close to the city. It’s nice to know there are some places worthwhile visiting that are not directly in the centre. Of course, Nuremberg and its natural attractions are close, too.

Where do you go for information?

There are many places to get information, for example, I recommend the FAU YouTube channel. Internationals can check it out, too, even if the videos are in German. Many videos have English subtitles, or they can use German subtitles which is great for learning the language.

What services can make the lives of international students easier?

I love the Writing Centre. The consultations they offer are great. They help you polish up your writing. There are also Counselling and Psychological Services, which are open to everybody. There are a lot of services that can help you figure things out. Asking for help is never shameful, especially at the beginning of your studies, when a lot of things are new and may seem scary. Also, it can be worth it to look into the Buddy Program, where you partner with a German student to help you when you are new here. I know of people who became great friends through the program. Some departments have their own buddy programs, too – ask about it!