Erasmus 2.0: From French vineyards to social management in the heart of Germany

It seems like only yesterday we were sharing our impressions of studying in France, but today life is opening up new and equally exciting horizons. This time, our story continues in Germany, at the Anhalt University of Applied Sciences (Hochschule Anhalt) in the city of Bernburg. This is our second experience participating in the Erasmus+ program, and we have become convinced: once you become a part of this community, you are changed forever.
If in France we immersed ourselves in production processes, in Bernburg the focus of our studies has shifted to the social side of international business management. Our subjects here require creativity, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of intercultural communications.

We would especially like to highlight the discipline "Business Administration Project." This is not just theory, but a real challenge for managers! Our task was to organize (in a simulation format) a traditional German Christmas market in the Chinese city of Chongqing. Working in a team, we solved complex issues: from logistics and organizational moments to the cultural adaptation of the event. This is an invaluable experience that teaches one to see business processes holistically.
No less fascinating is the "Intercultural Seminar." Here, we are taught to be ethical, open, and tolerant. We deeply explore issues of cultural heritage and learn to find common ground with people from different corners of the world, joining efforts for a common goal. Currently, as part of this course, we are preparing for a large-scale event that will not only present our cultures but also have an important volunteer mission — we are looking for ways our event can bring real benefit on a global level. The event will include sustainability while sharing our cultural heritage.
And, of course, what is Germany without the German language? Our lessons are active and work goes far beyond learning the alphabet. Our level of German proficiency is actively rising thanks to an intensive curriculum and qualified teachers! A pleasant surprise was that our teacher is a Ukrainian who speaks German at a very high level. This is incredibly motivating!

Erasmus is about the people who stay in your heart forever. A vivid confirmation of this was an incredible meeting with our friends from France (from our previous exchange), who traveled 1,500 km by car to visit us in Bernburg. This proves that true friendship knows no borders, and the connections gained during studies abroad pass the test of distance and time.
During our two-month stay here, we took the opportunity to see how diverse and majestic Germany can be. We visited the port of Hamburg, industrial Hanover, and historic Leipzig. Together with our French friends, we explored Berlin and visited the fairytale-like Quedlinburg — a city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its unique medieval architecture. And for dessert, we arranged an unforgettable weekend in free Amsterdam.

Despite such an active lifestyle and a busy travel program, we do not forget about our home university for a single minute. Preparation for the winter session at NUBiP was in full swing. We want to note that the process of studying under an individual schedule is organized smoothly and effectively. We are sincerely grateful to our wonderful teachers at NUBiP for their openness, understanding, and fruitful cooperation, which allows us to combine two educations without loss of quality.
We want to address all students: do not be afraid of difficulties! Yes, Erasmus requires a high level of responsibility, because closing a session at two universities simultaneously is a difficult task. But it is worth it. This experience tempers character, helps to grow professionally and personally.

So take this step towards the world — and the world will open up to you!

And finally, we want to separately express our deep gratitude to our native NUBiP of Ukraine and its international department for their tireless work. It is thanks to your efforts that we have the opportunity to discover the world and gain unique experience. Thank you for that solid academic foundation and thorough professional preparation, which allow us to feel confident in any international environment and worthily represent our university on the European stage.