The International Relations Office at the Industrial University of Santander (UIS) held an Academic and Cultural Conference on Germany, featuring talks, lectures, and panel discussions led by local and international professionals with experience in that country. The purpose was to offer the university community an introduction to German culture and opportunities for study, research, and work in that European country.
“Through the Foreign Affairs programs on multilingualism and interculturalism, we are commemorating Oktoberfest with this conference, which includes lectures on different topics, especially those related to culture and research in Germany. Our goal is to educate global students, so it is important that they learn not only about academic opportunities, but also cultural ones,” said Liliana del Pilar Castro, director of Foreign Affairs at UIS.
One of the main lectures was “Studying, researching, and obtaining scholarships in Germany,” given by Julian Thomas, lecturer at the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). During his presentation, he explained to students, professors, and researchers the training alternatives and financing mechanisms available in the German academic system, which is characterized by being mostly public and low-cost.
“My talk aimed to show the opportunities for study and research in Germany and, above all, the ways in which scholarships can be funded. There are many fields of knowledge and comprehensive support available for those who wish to continue their education in our country,” Thomas emphasized.
The students responded positively to the event, emphasizing that it allowed them to learn firsthand about exchange options and to become more familiar with German culture.
“This event was very interesting. I would like to do an exchange in Germany and I learned about many opportunities that I could take advantage of. It is very important that the university continues to hold these events so that more students can participate,” said María Mosquera, an electronic engineering student.
“I think it’s incredible because you learn about cultural aspects in advance, you are better prepared, and you avoid a strong culture shock when you arrive. These experiences help you feel more confident about participating in an academic exchange,” added Silvia Tamayo, a microbiology and bioanalysis student.
