Kia ora & Guten Tag! In this episode, host Mareike Schmidt welcomes Emma Uren and Josh Wang, two students from the University of Auckland who received a prestigious DAAD Winter Course scholarship to study German in Freiburg, Germany.
Over six immersive weeks, Emma and Josh dove into language learning, cultural exchange, and European travel โ and today, they share their stories, surprises, and standout moments. From navigating the application process to experiencing life in a German university town, this episode is full of practical tips and personal reflections for anyone curious about studying abroad.
๐ In this episode, we talk about:
- How Emma and Josh first got into learning German
- What the DAAD Winter Course is and how the application process felt
- Insights into the intensive language course in Freiburg
- Culture shock moments and how they adapted
- Weekend travels and the feeling of connectedness across Europe
- Honest lowlights and uplifting highlights
- Advice for future DAAD scholarship holders
- How the experience shaped their language skills and global outlook
If you enjoyed this episode, follow Kia Ora & Guten Tag: Exchange Stories on your favorite podcast platform and share it with someone dreaming of studying in Germany.
Bis bald โ see you soon!
Stay informed about opportunities with DAAD Scholarships
More general information about the University in Freiburg
Check out exchange options with 360International at University of Auckland
Your options to study German Abroad with the University of Auckland
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This podcast is made possible with support from the DAAD Lectureship Programme.
What is Kia Ora & Guten Tag: Exchange Stories?
What happens when students from New Zealand pack their bags and head to Germany for a semester abroad?
In this podcast, students from the University of Auckland share their real-life experiences of studying in Germany โ from learning the language, navigating daily life, and attending German universities, to cultural surprises, personal growth, and unforgettable stories.
Whether you're thinking about going on exchange, curious about life in Germany, or just love hearing first-hand travel tales, "Kia Ora & Guten Tag: Exchange Stories" offers a unique look into what it's really like to study and live abroad โ in a new language, and a new world.
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Language learning. Cultural exchange. Lifelong memories.
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Supported by the DAAD โ German Academic Exchange Service.