Katharina, Physics, Konrad Adenauer Foundation
Were you aware before your studies that you had all the prerequisites for a scholarship? How did you become aware of the topic?
Although I always had good to very good grades in school and was motivated to learn, I didn't expect to get a scholarship. I thought that the probability of being accepted was low. That's why I didn't even consider applying at first. I was surprised when my grade level advisor approached me about a scholarship and encouraged me to apply.
What do you think about your program so far? What are you benefiting from most? What do you like most about it? What does it mean to you to be a scholarship holder?
Now I am very happy that I am a scholarship holder of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation. I benefit enormously from the idealistic support, for example from the seminars and the meetings of the university groups. The exchange with other scholarship holders - especially from other disciplines - is very enriching. It motivates me to think about and reflect on my life and my environment, and in the process to absorb new food for thought.
I was initially very worried about the Foundation's expectations of me and put a lot of pressure on myself. But it was the conversations with Foundation staff or my supervising advisor that showed me that it's okay to hesitate once in a while and to find my own way. The conversations helped me to reduce my own pressure and encouraged me to go my own way. The feeling of being supported and being able to talk about it is good.
What do you dream about professionally, what would you like to achieve later?
I am still undecided what I want to do after my studies. I enjoy my physics studies, but I cannot (currently) imagine working in teaching or research. Therefore, I am toying with the idea of becoming a patent attorney.
It is my wish to find a profession that I enjoy and that allows and enables me to start a family and be a mother.
What tips would you give to prospective students and students who are interested in / would like to apply for a scholarship?
When you are interested in a scholarship, it is important to choose a foundation that fits you. The question is, does the foundation suit me and also, do I fit in with the foundation and its values? That's an important factor when it comes to exchanges and meetings with other fellows - at seminars, for example. I would also recommend that anyone who applies should go into the selection process with an open mind and a relaxed attitude. Much more important than being able to answer every question correctly is to appear authentic and be yourself. Showing your own personality is important - because that's what makes you special and interesting.