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Studierende die in der Wartezone der Zentralen Studienberatung warten. © Roland Baege​/​TU Dortmund
My Path – Your Opportunity: Off to a Foreign Country!

Firsthand experiences abroad

Discovering new countries, pushing your limits, and broadening your horizons: That was exactly what the event “My Path – Your Opportunity: Off to a Foreign Country!” on June 17, 2026, was all about. Three personal stories made it clear that experiences abroad are not just about travel—they often become formative chapters in one’s life.

To start things off, Laura Hope from the International Office provided the participants with valuable insights. She highlighted the opportunities a stay abroad offers, why it’s worth taking the plunge, and how to successfully find the right programs and opportunities. With practical research tips and helpful information, she made it clear: The dream of studying abroad is often closer than you think.

However, the event centered on three very personal stories that could hardly have been more different, yet all shared a common message: Go for it!

Bilal shared his experience as an au pair in the U.S. Even though not everything went smoothly and he had to switch host families, he didn’t let that discourage him. On the contrary: the experience reinforced his desire to continue supporting others and to consciously use the time for personal growth. After his au pair stay, he’s already planning his next step and hopes to complete a voluntary social service year.

Stefan also shared a story about an unplanned detour that turned out to be a great enrichment. He originally wanted to go abroad as an au pair himself but couldn’t find a suitable family. Instead of giving up, he spontaneously decided to go to South Africa. Today, he lives and works there with adults with disabilities—a role that deeply fulfills and inspires him. His example powerfully demonstrates that sometimes it’s the unexpected paths that lead to the most rewarding experiences.

Enes, in turn, took the participants on a journey through his various study abroad stints and internships in the U.S. and Japan. He planned his experiences abroad with a great deal of structure and determination—and yet one thing in particular played a decisive role: his enthusiasm. Every time he returned, the same inner voice would tell him, “You have to go abroad again.” A statement that sums up his passion for international experiences and personal growth.

All three role models spoke openly about challenges, doubts, and obstacles. At the same time, they made it clear just how much they had grown through their experiences. Their stories showed that there doesn’t have to be a perfect time or a perfect path—but above all, it takes the courage to take that first step.

The event made it clear: A stay abroad changes perspectives, builds self-confidence, and opens up new opportunities—professionally, personally, and on a human level.

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