Secondary school, sixth form, A-levels, online study and finally a degree course on campus: Simon Mengeu is studying Media Communication at the Ostfalia Campus in Salzgitter. In this interview, he talks about changing his course, the importance of community and why not every life path has to be a straight line.
Mandy Fleer, Ostfalia editorial team: Simon, what was your path to university like?
Simon: It wasn’t a straight path. After secondary school, I went to secondary modern school and then took my A-levels. After that, I initially started an online degree in media management.
And how did you end up at Ostfalia?
Simon: In the online course, I missed the personal interaction and the practical work. That’s why I looked for an alternative and eventually chose Media Communication at Ostfalia.
Why did you choose Media Communication rather than Media Management?
Simon: The course content simply appealed to me more. The programme is very practice-oriented and offers plenty of opportunities to work creatively. That suited my interests better.
Were you worried before you started your studies?
Simon: Yes, mainly because I’d moved to Salzgitter from southern Germany and didn’t know anyone. At the same time, though, I was also looking forward to the chance to meet new people and start afresh.
What made it easier for you to settle in?
Simon: Definitely Welcome Week. I quickly made connections there and formed my first friendships. That made the start much easier.
What do you particularly like about the course?
Simon: Above all, the editorial workshops. There, we work on real projects and gain practical experience. For example, we produce magazines or audio formats. In doing so, you not only learn a lot about the subject, but also how to work in teams and organise projects.
Was there anything that surprised you about the course?
Simon: Just how much everyone supports one another. Lots of people have similar questions and uncertainties. But I soon realised that nobody has to know everything right from the start. After all, the course is there to help you learn new things.
Do you have a favourite spot on campus?
Simon: The roof terrace. You get a great view over the campus from there and can enjoy the sun in summer.
You’re going abroad soon. Where are you heading?
Simon: I’m going to spend a semester in Spain, in Mataró near Barcelona. I’m looking forward to meeting new people, experiencing the culture and gaining international experience.
Do you have any plans for after you finish your studies?
Simon: I’d like to work in public relations. Next year, I’ll be doing an internship at a PR agency in Hamburg. I’m really looking forward to it because I’ll be able to put the knowledge I’ve gained from my studies into practice straight away.
What advice would you give to prospective students?
Simon: You shouldn’t let detours discourage you. Not every path is a straight line, and that’s perfectly fine. Often, that’s precisely how you learn a lot about yourself. It’s not a race. Sometimes it just takes time to figure out what really suits you. The important thing is to stay open to new experiences and trust your own path.
Would you like to study at Ostfalia too? You can find an overview of all degree programmes here! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Central Student Advisory Service.