Portrait of the month July/August: Part one

With this portrait of the month, we will be presenting scholarship holders from Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia who were successful last year in applying for the “Research Grants” programme. We have prepared a series of interviews in three parts to be published between July and August 2023.

The “Research Grants” programme offers four different types of grants for which application deadlines are 31 August 2023: Doctoral Programmes, Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle, One-Year Grants for Doctoral Candidates and Short-Term Grants. For further information, you may visit www.funding-guide.de.

Name: Mohamed Rais

Home university: University of Boumerdes, Algeria

Host university: Coburg University

Field: Electrical Engineering

What is your everyday life like as a DAAD scholarship holder in Germany?

As a DAAD scholarship holder and a PhD student in Germany, my daily life is a fascinating blend of academic pursuits, cultural immersion, and personal growth. Each day, I wake up with a sense of excitement and purpose, knowing that I have the opportunity to engage in enriching experiences.

Academically, my focus is on deepening my knowledge and honing my skills in my field of study. I participate in engaging seminars that stimulate intellectual discussions and dedicate significant time to research and projects that contribute to the advancement of my academic pursuits. The university provides exceptional resources, including well-equipped libraries, state-of-the-art laboratories, and dedicated study spaces, all of which support and enhance my learning journey.

To maintain balance and foster personal growth, I make time for self-reflection and relaxation. Germany provides enough opportunities for outdoor activities, such as exploring picturesque landscapes, enjoying leisurely walks in parks, or engaging in sports. Additionally, I pursue personal hobbies and interests, savoring moments of solitude or engaging in social activities with scholarship holders.

Overall, my life as a DAAD scholarship holder in Germany is a captivating journey of intellectual stimulation, cultural exploration, and personal development. The opportunity to pursue my academic passions, immerse myself in a vibrant culture, and forge connections with brilliant minds from around the world is an experience that will shape my future endeavors and broaden my horizons. I am immensely grateful for this scholarship and enjoy every moment of my stay in Germany.

What did you notice particularly in your everyday life or what did you find particularly strange?

In my everyday life as a DAAD scholarship holder in Germany, several aspects caught my attention and provided me with unique experiences. One particular aspect that stood out to me was the efficiency and punctuality embedded in German society. From public transportation running with remarkable precision to meticulously planned schedules and timely deliveries.

Another element was the concept of “quiet hours” or “Ruhezeit” observed in residential areas. These designated hours during the day and night, typically focused on avoiding noise disturbances, demonstrated the emphasis placed on maintaining a peaceful and respectful living environment.

Furthermore, the prevalence of recycling and the meticulous separation of waste materials was another aspect that caught my attention. The commitment to environmental sustainability and the conscientious effort to reduce waste demonstrated the German society’s dedication to ecological responsibility.

Overall, these observations challenged my preconceived notions, encouraged me to adopt new perspectives, and ultimately enriched my understanding of the country and its people.