Hector from Chile
Hector from Chile has been living in Dresden for five years. He is studying electrical engineering and is currently writing his Diplom thesis.
- What do you like about TU Dresden?
The labs at my faculty are really good. Furthermore, I like that the professors at my faculty are friendly and very openminded. You can learn a lot here.
Talking about the university in general, I think that the sports courses offered are very attractive and of course, I enjoy the plethora of parties and events offered throughout the semester.
- What's your favourite spot in Dresden?
There are several, for example Saxon Switzerland. Does this count as Dresden? Anyway, it is one of my favourite places nearby.
- What should international students definitely try out or see while living in Dresden?
The lakes in Dresden and nearby, like for example the "Kiesgrube Leuben" (A/N: Kiesgrube is a former gravel pit that's flooded.). It's really beautiful there! I have even celebrated my last birthday at this lake. Apart from that, one definitely has to see the typical things, like the Old City with all its sights or the Neustadt. Additionally, I'd recommend the Dresden Heath (A/N: city forest), especially to those that love jogging or going for a walk.
- What was especially difficult when you arrived?
That I didn't understand anything and wasn't able to communicate properly with anyone. I had learnt German when in Chile but had only reached level A1-A2 at the end of the course there. (And A2 in Chile isn't that useful.). I only went to Germany, half a year after having had finished the class and within this half year, I didn't learn or practise any German. That's why it was so difficult when I arrived in Dresden.
- Living in Germany what is the biggest difference to your home country?
The quality of life. Chile is a very centralised country. From your home to the university or to work, it's usually a commute of one or two hours. Here everything is much closer and hence, one has much more free time. The structure of the university here is also very different from the one in Chile. In Chile, one usually spends almost the whole day with lectures and university stuff which leaves very little time for other activities and hobbies.
Latin Americans are very laid-back people with a relaxed attitude towards life, but life itself in Chile often seems more stressful to me due to the large distances and crowds of people.
- Any advice for other students living abroad for the first time?
Just participate in all introductory seminars and events offered before your studies. That's the best way to get to know your fellow students and make new friends.
It's also important to go outside in the winter season to meet with other people despite the cold and the darkness. Don't stay at home with the excuse that it's too cold. Otherwise, you'll run the risk of getting depressed.
(The interview was conducted by Krista Aguilar in the winter semester 2018/19 in German.)