Vy from Vietnam
VY is from Vietnam. She started studying Chemistry in the winter semester 2018/19. Before her studies here, she attended the preparatory course offered for free at TU Dresden.
- Since when have you been living in Dresden?
Since September 2017.
- What do you like about TU Dresden?
Previously, my plan was to study at TU Cologne but TU Dresden offered a free preparatory course for German. I really liked that. There are a lot of programmes and activities offered here in general, like for instance also the language courses at TUDIAS. I also found my student job with the help of the StuRa (A/N: student council). My faculty here is also quite good. I don't like the lectures too much though as they seem very generic to me. I have also studied Chemistry in Vietnam and found the lectures there more specific. But the learning environment here in Dresden is really good and I really like the professors and students becuse they are usually very friendly. Another advantage here are the PC pools everywhere. I can use them not only in the library but also at my faculty.
- What's your favourite spot in Dresden?
I think it's the Semper opera where I have attended opera performances and concerts. Really loved it. Hmmm, what else do I like...? Ah yes! Close to the Faculty of Mathematics there is a chestnut tree. When I first came to Dresden, I went there with some of my friends and collected some chestnuts for our cooking later. That's a beautiful memory for me.
- What was especially difficult when you arrived?
The language, especially listening comprehension is extremely difficult. I mean, I don't only need the language at the university but I also have to use it in my everyday life. I haven't made so many friends yet. I really have to get better at that because with more German friends, I will also be able to practise and improve my German.
- Living in Germany what is the biggest difference to your home country?
The weather! In Vietnam, it's hot and humid but here in Germany it's cold and dry. Furthermore, the rituals for greeting each other are also different. Here, people hug each other or even kiss. We don't do that in Vietnam. In general, relationships here are different. Relationships in Vietnam are not as close and open. While in Vietnam I can communicate in my mother tongue with my friends, which is much easier, but I really like the atmosphere here better. It's warmer and more comfortable. Additionally, in Germany people don't care as much about their appearance.
- Any advice for other students living abroad for the first time?
Try to be active to make new friends and to get used to the new culture. If you are alone and inactive all the time you could get depressed and lose motivation which would not be good for your life and for studying.
(This interview was conducted by Krista Aguilar in winter semester 2018/19 in German.)