From an FSJ to an au pair year in the USA to studying: Silvia Trematerra (23) is studying Media Communication at the Ostfalia Campus Salzgitter. In this interview, she talks about creative projects, the challenges of studying and why it is important to go your own way.
Mandy Fleer, Ostfalia editorial team: Silvia, how did you get to university?
Silvia: I did my vocational baccalaureate and then an FSJ - half a year in a care home and half a year in a daycare centre. I then spent a year as an au pair in the USA. Because I didn't come back until the autumn, I worked in retail for another year before I was able to start my studies.
Did you realise early on that you wanted to study?
Silvia: Yes, the desire was already there. I also did the FSJ to fulfil the practical part of my vocational baccalaureate and to be able to study at all.
Why media communication?
Silvia: I'm a creative person, I'm interested in languages and I like working with people. Media Communication combines all of this. Social media also plays a big role in my everyday life - so the degree programme was an obvious choice.
So why did you decide in favour of Ostfalia?
Silvia: I applied to several universities of applied sciences, especially in the region. After my year abroad, I didn't want to move too far away from my family. Ostfalia wasn't my first choice right from the start, but today I'm very satisfied.
What do you particularly like about the degree programme?
Silvia: The practical part. We work a lot on projects, for example on film or magazine productions. It's nice to have a finished result in your hand at the end. At the same time, the theoretical content is also important, for example in the field of media ethics.
Was there anything that surprised you?
Silvia: How different the students are and how much we support each other. There is a strong community. That helps a lot, especially at the beginning.
Were you worried before starting the programme?
Silvia: Yes, especially because of the exams. I don't think the education system works equally well for everyone. That can create pressure and lead to fear of failure.
What helps you deal with this?
Silvia: Talking about it with friends or fellow students. And to start studying and submitting work as early as possible so that it doesn't all come at once.
Do you already have plans for after graduation?
Silvia: I'm particularly interested in the field of journalism. I don't yet know exactly where I will work later. I'm open to that.
What advice would you like to give prospective students?
Silvia: Look at different universities and make several plans. And above all: study what really interests you and not what others expect.
Would you also like to study at Ostfalia? Then you can find an overview of all degree programmes here!