DAAD Prize 2026

• How did you come to the decision to study in Germany or at TU Dortmund University?

Actually, I had dreamed of studying abroad ever since I was a child. At school, I started learning German, but only one year later I changed schools and could no longer continue learning German there. So I continued studying it on my own because I liked the language so much. Through that, I also began to understand German culture a little better. As a result, my motivation to study in Germany grew, and in eleventh grade I decided to take part in the “Studienbrücke” program. This program gives you the opportunity to study at a university immediately after school without attending a preparatory college, which would otherwise not be possible. Studying here in German was unfamiliar at first, but since I was already at C1 level, I was able to settle in quickly.

• Did you find “arriving” in Germany challenging?

At the beginning, I realized that I was responsible for building new networks for myself. When I arrived, of course, I did not have any friends, so I made a great effort to meet new people. It helped me a lot that I took every opportunity to get to know others. Two years ago, I also took part in “Come2Campus” and met other students there, some of whom became my friends. At the beginning of my studies, I started a small blog to feel less alone. At first, it was simply an outlet for me. I wrote about my studies, my life, and my experiences in Germany. Today, it has become a platform that inspires other young people to take the step of coming to Germany as well. I am proud of that.

For many international students, it is challenging when you realize that you have to take full responsibility for your own life. By that, I do not only mean doing the household chores or things like that, but also building networks and finding your way in a university system that places great value on independence. You are an adult now and are even living in a new country. If you do not become active yourself, it can become really difficult.

• You are very involved alongside your studies. What motivates you the most?

Ever since I was a child, I have truly loved helping other people - both in my studies and in general. For example, I can never say “no.” If I cannot help directly, I always try at least to give advice or support someone in some practical way. When I arrived in Germany at the age of 17, I was supported by my friend Svetlana and that helped me incredibly much! I can hardly imagine how I would have managed the move without help.

• In your acceptance speech, you described that it feels as if you have gained almost ten years of life experience in the past two years. What advice would you give to other students who are just starting their studies?

You do not have to be perfect. You do not need perfect language skills or perfect conditions. What counts is curiosity, perseverance, and a willingness to learn. It does not matter how difficult the beginning is. Stay open, seek help, do not be afraid of challenges and never lose your sense of humor.

We must not forget: We are a new generation of students. We overcome borders, we build bridges, and we shape the future.

• Why did you decide to study at TU Dortmund University?

When I studied economics in my Bachelor program in Lisbon, Portugal, I found that I really liked econometrics. There are only few econometric programs and I think that the curriculum at TU Dortmund is very interesting. It is not only economic-based but also puts an emphasis on mathematics and statistics.

• Besides your academic success, you are do a lot of volunteering. Where does you motoviation come from?

When you don’t know many people, getting involved is a very good way to meet other students. Also, I started my Bachelor during Covid, so there was no university life whatsoever. When I arrived here, I could catch up doing these things that I like to do, because there is a lot of university life at TU Dortmund.

• Did you find it easy to access these groups that you are now involved in, to find a job etc.?

My student job was offered to me by the academic staff, because I had very good grades. When I moved here, my flatmate introduced me to the student council. Through the student council, I discovered lots of other groups and became part of a network.

• Do you have a special piece of advice that you would like to give other students who are hesitating to get involved in student groups?

Everyone is very welcoming here – just show up and try it out! If you don’t like it, leave it and try something else. Nobody will be offended if you quit a group after two or three meetings to do something else, that is toally normal. 

• What about the German language?

Everything is ten times harder when you don’t speak the language and it can be very draining to be constantly translating things in your head. You can improve your skills by taking some of the  university’s free language courses. You can choose between many courses so you don’t have any schedule conflicts

• If someone would also like to apply for the DAAD Prize next year, what would you recommend? 

Just do your best and something good will come from it!