Chinmay, what led you to study in Bremen of all places?

It is incredibly difficult to get accepted to a master’s program in India. Not necessarily due to a lack of qualifications, but simply because of the overwhelming number of applicants. In the end, it comes down to first come, first served. But I wanted to go somewhere where the focus is on learning, not competition.

Germany was ideal for me because there are no tuition fees and the educational system is open and accessible. Bremen caught my interest because the Space Engineering program is interdisciplinary, technical, and practical – exactly the approach that matches my interests.

How was it when you arrived in Bremen? Were you able to find your way without much difficulty?

It was much easier than I expected. I felt welcome from the very beginning. I had anticipated a culture shock, but Bremen felt familiar right away. Maybe because the city is green and the people are friendly. It reminds me of my hometown, Pune.

The university helped too – the campus is vast, lush, and not at all crowded. There were campus tours, information sessions from the International Office, and dedicated contact persons. That really made a difference.

What do you like most about the University of Bremen?

I really value the flexibility. In India, degree plans are much stricter. Here, I get to decide how many courses to take each semester. There’s also much more contact with lecturers, and most are approachable and genuinely supportive. And I feel taken seriously as an international student, which means a lot to me.

You offer a creative writing workshop. How did that come about, and what does writing mean to you?

I used to read a lot, and at some point, it became too passive. I wanted to write myself, to convey my thoughts and ideas in words. I’ve written dozens of texts and story drafts. All are unfinished, but they exist. I’m not writing to publish, but to express myself.

My workshop isn’t about perfection. I always say: don’t write to impress, write to connect. Everyone has their own story. We meet informally, share our work, and give each other feedback. It’s right in line with the motto: “Come as you are.”

Have you gained different perspectives on living here through your writing?

Absolutely. Writing helps me to sort my thoughts. During the Covid pandemic, I wrote about Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. At that time, it represented hope amid uncertainty. These writings give me structure and help me to connect with myself and with others.

How do you experience the cultural exchange at the university?

I find the discussions in the Engineering Ethics seminar particularly enriching. We explore moral questions from multiple perspectives, and that truly broadens our horizons. We’re not just learning theoretical facts; we’re learning about people.

What advice would you give to international students considering coming to Bremen?

Be open. Be yourself. From India, I’m used to people adapting, adjusting, and trying to fit in by becoming someone else. But you don’t need to do that here. In Bremen, you can be yourself. No one expects perfection. Come with an open mind, stay open to new experiences, and don’t try to plan for everything in advance. Bremen will surprise you.

In conclusion: If you had to summarize your experience at the University of Bremen in one sentence, what would that be?

It feels like I’m finally where I belong.

Come As You Are

That’s not just a slogan at the University of Bremen; it’s actively encouraged. Feel free to reach out to our Student Advisory Service or explore all the opportunities the University of Bremen has to offer online. Additional offers for international students can be found at kompass.