Topic outline

  • Round 6

    VIEL Student Experiences Summersemester 2024


    • Julia: "Projects like these have a powerful influence on fostering cross-cultural understanding and cooperation"

      Participating in the VIEL Project has had a significant impact on my year in 2024.

      I applied for VIEL because I have always been fascinated by different cultures and had previous experiences with school exchanges on other continents.

      From the very first VIEL meeting, I was thrilled to meet the other students from Kenya (Mercy, Alice and John) and Ireland (Paul) and my German fellow Student (Judith). Our conversations during online meetings and through WhatsApp quickly led to interesting and exciting conversations. As we shared stories about our weekends and exchanged pictures of pets and food, we became online friends. This bond only deepened when we finally met in person in Karlsruhe in July. Seeing each other for the first time felt less like meeting new people and more like reuniting with old friends I hadn’t seen in a while.
      Our conversations were open and without boundaries, allowing us to discuss a wide range of topics, including political, religious, and sociological differences. I gained valuable insights into Kenyan and Irish culture and history, as well as the daily lives of my fellow students.

      I thoroughly enjoyed showing the others around Karlsruhe. It was a pleasure to introduce them to my favorite spots in the city — places where I like to hang out with friends, read books, enjoy a good coffee, or go out for dinner. When we started playing a Kenyan game in the park, I immediately thought about sharing it with my German friends as well. Throughout the week, we met more interesting people, and our conversations broadened our perspectives even further.


      Even though I’m not originally from Karlsruhe, it already feels like home to me. However, seeing the city through the eyes of my friends from Kenya and Ireland offered me a fresh perspective. Things that I had taken for granted in my daily life suddenly stood out to them, making me reflect on my own routine. For example, they were impressed by practices like recycling bottles — things I was used to and had never given much thought to before.


      Online meetings can often feel overwhelming. On one hand, there’s a sense of security in being in your familiar personal space, where you don’t have to step out of your comfort zone. On the other hand, if the meeting feels impersonal — especially when no one has their camera on — it can be exhausting and disengaging. This creates a challenge: how do you create an interesting, personal online environment where you feel comfortable yet still push yourself beyond your comfort zone?
      Through my experience with the VIEL Project, I’ve learned a great deal about how to navigate this balance. I discovered how online meetings can be engaging and how meaningful personal connections can be built, even in a virtual setting. This experience has shown me that it’s possible to foster a sense of closeness and collaboration online, and I’ll carry these insights with me moving forward.

      I am incredibly thankful to have been part of the VIEL Project, as it has had a profound impact on both my personal growth and my understanding of the professional aspects of Communication and Media Management. This experience has not only helped me develop as a person but also provided me with valuable insights into how different cultures can come together and collaborate effectively. I am confident that projects like these have a powerful influence on fostering cross-cultural understanding and cooperation, and I will carry these lessons with me into my future endeavors.
      The laughter we shared, the touching moments, and all the fun we had while talking and hanging out together — These are moments we will remember forever. Each of these experiences has meant so much to me, and I cherish the connections we built along the way.


      Addition from October 2024: Journey to Kenya

      Thanks to the Baden-Württemberg Stiftung, Sissi and Belinda, my german fellow student and friend Judith and me had the extraordinary chance to visit Kenya. I felt so lucky to reunite with my Kenyan friends Mercy, Alice, John, Pam and Vicky. Unfortunately, our Irish friend Paul wasn’t able to join us on the trip to Kenya, which was such a pity. I really hope that our paths will cross again someday so we can share more experiences together.

      It was my first time in a country so different from any place I’d known, and the experience was touching.

      On the first day, Mercy, Alice, Vicky, and Pam gave us an unforgettable tour of Kilifi. From exploring bustling markets and enjoying barbecue meals to strolling along the creek and watching the sunset at Old Ferry, every moment was filled with new insights and shared laughter. I discovered the Kenyan spirit of humor once again and loved making jokes with friends and strangers alike.

      Visiting Pwani University in Kilifi was also a great experience. In class, we got to meet the MCM students and gain insights into the Kenyan university system. It was eye-opening to see the similarities and differences in how students approach their studies, and it gave us a deeper understanding of academic life in Kenya. In the MCM class on technical communication, I was pleasantly reminded of topics I had studied myself. I also enjoyed walking through Pwani’s library. One fun aspect of the campus was seeing goats wandering around, thanks to the students studying agriculture.


      During my time in Kenya, I experienced so many beautiful moments. Each day brought something new and meaningful. One of my most cherished memories was capturing the vibrant Kenyan sky with Mercy, Judith and Pam and laughing as we searched for glowing plankton in the water.

      We also had the chance of going on a Safari in Tsavo East National Park which was another unforgettable experience. Seeing giraffes and elephants in their natural habitat was a dream come true, and I felt deeply grateful for that.


      Looking back, the personal connections I made in Kenya left the deepest mark. Conversations with my friends as well as people we met along the way opened my eyes to new perspectives on life and reshaped how I view my own choices. One encounter left me with the idea that people are like mirrors, reflecting the attitudes we show them. At first, being in a completely new country, I was curious but also a bit hesitant as I tried to find my footing. From that moment on, I made a conscious effort to approach everyone with openness and genuine interest, and in turn, I received the same.

      I anticipated that Kilifi would be a memorable experience, but I hadn’t expected it to leave such a profound impact on me. The car ride to the airport was emotional, filled with gratitude for every moment I had experienced and the incredible friendships I had formed. Leaving Kilifi was difficult, knowing it could be the last time.

      Reflecting on this journey fills me with joy and gratitude. I shared unforgettable laughs, explored personal topics, and built lifelong friendships with students from Kenya and Ireland. I also had a fun time with Sissi, Belinda, Nicole, and Alicia, who made the experience even better.


      Now, I look forward to preserving these memories through photos, videos, and diary entries, knowing that they will serve as a lifelong reminder of this unforgettable experience. I’ve already started a photo book and can’t wait to share my stories with family and friends, celebrating the friendships I’ve made along the way.

      The VIEL Project has truly created something remarkable, something that empowers people to grow both personally and professionally. I am deeply grateful to everyone who made this journey possible and for the lasting impact it has left on my life. Thank you! Asante!

      • Judith: "An unforgettable and enriching experience"

        Participating in the VIEL project with the students from Kenya and Ireland was an incredibly enriching experience. Initially, we connected online over a few months, sharing personal stories and cultural insights that allowed us to build a strong foundation of understanding and friendship. We also participated in workshops together where we learned about communication and media production. When we finally met in person in Germany and spent a few days together, the experience truly came to life and we had so much fun together. We enjoyed sunny days in the park, went swimming and had a lot of delicious food and traditional german beer. Even though we’ve already talked a lot during our weekly meetings, we still had so much more to tell each other.

        For me, one of the most positive aspects of this exchange was the opportunity to engage with people from different cultural backgrounds in a meaningful and personal way. The online meetings provided a safe space for us to open up, ask questions, and learn from each other, which made our in-person interactions much more profound. Through the virtual meetings we could connect despite being hundreds of kilometers apart. By the time we met face-to-face, it felt like we were meeting old friends rather than strangers from different parts of the world. Knowing each other on a personal level made working with our differences much easier.

        This kind of exchange is incredibly important and valuable for several reasons. First, it fosters global awareness and cross-cultural understanding. In a world that is increasingly interconnected, it's essential to appreciate and respect the diversity of perspectives, traditions, and experiences. Moreover, participating in an exchange like this broadens one's horizons and challenges preconceived notions. It encourages you to step out of your comfort zone, to see the world from different angles, and to reconsider your own cultural norms and values. This kind of learning is not only academic but deeply personal.

        Through this exchange, I gained a deeper appreciation for the richness of cultural diversity and the common humanity that connects us all. I also learned the importance of empathy, communication, and open-mindedness in building meaningful relationships across cultural divides. These are lessons that will stay with me long after the exchange has ended and will influence how I engage with the world in the future. I have worked in an international team before but the big difference was the academic goal we shared and that we only got to know each other in a professional context. We didn’t really spend much time getting to know each other on a personal level. But through VIEL, I’ve learned how important and enriching it can be to really try and get to know each other on a deeper and more personal level. After the stay in Germany, we were an even better team than before.


        In conclusion, the exchange project was a valuable experience that went beyond mere cultural exchange; it was an opportunity for personal growth, for building lasting international friendships, and for gaining insights that will shape how I interact with the world. Such programs are essential in fostering a more inclusive, understanding, and connected global community. Which is really important, especially these days with all the violence and estrangement that divides different countries and cultures.

        Addition from October 2024: Reunion in Kenya
        Meeting my VIEL friends in Germany was amazing—finally connecting in person made the time together fly by, and saying goodbye came way too soon. So when we planned a reunion in Kenya, I couldn’t wait! I was not only excited to see everyone again, but also to experience Kenya for the first time. It was also my first time traveling to Africa. Visiting a new country alongside friends who know it well felt like the perfect way to dive in.
        Alice, John, and Mercy gave us a warm welcome, showing us around their university, and even taking us to some of their classes. We also spent time on the beach, explored Kilifi, and wandered through local markets and shops. We went for a boat ride on Kilifi Creek, saw glowing plankton at night, and shared one exciting day after another. Having these experiences together with the VIEL team and all the other students made it even more special.

        After talking to John about Kenyan food, I couldn’t wait to try the dishes he’d told me about—and I was not disappointed! It was already fun to talk about our cultures and see what was similar and different in our everyday lives during our weekly meetings, but actually experiencing it was even better. Of course, saying goodbye the second time around was tougher since we became even closer after spending such a beautiful time together. But I’m hopeful we’ll keep meeting for many more reunions! The whole VIEL experience has been unforgettable, and I’ll always treasure the friendships and memories I’ve gained through it.


        I am really thankful to my fellow VIEL students Julia, Paul, Alice, Mercy and John and everyone else involved in the project for making this an unforgettable experience.

        • Paul: "It was like being reunited with old friends."

          I have always had a keen interest in other cultures, and in meeting and learning from people outside of my own area - be it personal, geographical, or professional. When offered the opportunity to take part in the VIEL project, I was immediately excited that I would get to socialise and connect with other students in different parts of the world.
          Building relationships virtually can sometimes be a struggle: there is a historical sense in all of us, I feel, that we need to be in the same physical space as each other to truly connect on a human level. The VIEL project disproves this notion and shows that people can connect effectively, regardless of where they are in the world via the internet. 

          Our weekly meetings quickly became a highlight of my calendar, and I found it so refreshing - and fun - to have them to look forward to after a busy day working and studying. While I am somewhat older than the rest of my cohort, this, much like our geographical differences, never factored into how much I gained from the experience. Hearing people tell their story, talk about their history and culture, and speak about their families was a truly fulfilling experience. Having the space to casually socialise and get to know each other via our Zoom meetings provided a great foundation for friendship which only grew over the course of the 5 months. 

          Aside from the cultural exchange aspect, I also learned new skills, and improved on pre-exisiting ones in the various workshops we attended as part of the program. Learning more about podcasting and video editing was both exciting and extremely beneficial to other aspects of my study and professional career. Similarly, the classes we took together in Visuals and modern linguistic models also provided me with a deeper understanding of the topics that then positively influenced my role as a Technical Writer, and gave me a better awareness when writing assignments for my MA program. 

          I feel it was a fitting way to end the program to meet in Germany with my fellow students. Upon arrival, being greeted by John, Alice, and Mercy from Pwani University, and Julia and Judith from Karlsruhe was an emotional experience; these people whom I had spent so much time with in the past few months were in the same space as I was. It was like being reunited with old friends. 

          We have all created strong bonds, and made memories that will last our lifetime. Knowing that we can still connect and keep in touch is testament to the power of a virtual program like VIEL. I want to thank Belinda, Alicia, Yvonne, Edith, Sissi, and everyone who made this one of the most enriching experiences of my life.


          • John: "It turned out to be one of my most meaningful and informative interactions with people with unique perceptions of life"

            Being part of the VIEL project has been amongst the most transforming journeys for me. In hindsight, my idea of cultural exchange has always been one sided since I had never been part of an exchange that involved meeting people from different cultures and sharing in their experiences in real time.

            The virtual exchange was especially interesting since it provided a platform for frequent interaction with other students as they went about their usual activities, and for me to open up about my daily experiences without restraint. This made it possible to experience their daily lives first hand as if I was physically present in each of their lives, and they in mine.

            The icing, however, was the physical meet-up in Germany, which, lasting about a week, cemented the bonds we had built amongst us. It was a new experience for me, and the organization stood out the most. From the physical environment, to the cuisine, hospitality, rich history, infrastructure and transportation system, everything exceeded my initial expectations. Meeting the students from Ireland and Germany (Paul, Judith and Jule) for the first time was a further eye opener to the cultural rift that the VIEL project has successfully sought to reduce over the last five exchange rounds; - While we had been well acquainted from the weekly virtual meetings, I realized that the physical meet-up required a fresh re-acquaintance to accommodate one other and build a more real-time understanding of each other’s cultural ideals. I looked at it as a challenge considering the days assigned for the stay, and expectedly, it turned out to be one of my most meaningful and informative interactions with people with unique perceptions of life.


            I am grateful to the VIEL team for the opportunity and hope that the program will run for subsequent years in the interest of cultural exchange, and most importantly, genuine connection between people from different cultures.


            Addition from October 2024

            Reflecting on September, I may not have had as much time to spend with my fellow VIEL students as I’d hoped, but it was still truly special to reconnect with everyone after our stay in Germany in July. Attending classes with Judith and Julia was an opportunity for us to share the Kenyan university experience, which I’m glad they could now take part in firsthand. Our occasional meet-ups for dinner at Mnarani Club Hotel was an opportunity to enjoy the local culture together, which was as rewarding for me as I’m sure it was for my friends.
            Although our time together was brief, it was a joy being together again, and I’m confident that everyone in our cohort has come away with unforgettable memories, thanks to the VIEL project.

            • Mercy: "The friendships, memories, and mementos I've gained are testaments to the profound impact of the VIEL Project—truly an experience of a lifetime."

              This year, the VIEL Project has undoubtedly been the highlight and an extraordinary journey for me, marking one of the best decisions I've made. From the start, all the way through, the exchange of ideas and cultures has expanded my horizons in ways I never imagined. Initially, I had few ideas of what to expect, especially since the focus on Media and Communication was somewhat familiar to me as a Literature student. Adding to the novelty, the program was conducted virtually, contrasting with the traditional physical exchange programs. However, this unique inter-exchange experience has profoundly impacted my life, combining fun with significant academic and technical growth.

              The workshops were engaging and enriching from the outset. I particularly enjoyed the hands-on assignments, with my favorite being the podcast project. This task involved interviewing each other on various topics, providing an opportunity to delve into audio editing—an area that had long piqued my interest but remained unexplored in my field. This challenge was immensely rewarding, and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the podcasts created by my peers.

              Our Thursday Zoom hangouts quickly became a highlight of my week. These sessions were filled with lively discussions on diverse topics such as culture, hobbies, sports, current trends in our respective countries, and even the weather. We (Alice, Judith, Paul, Judith, John  and  Mercy) shared personal experiences, weekend activities, daily snapshots, and our favorite foods. These interactions fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and connection among us. I really loved that, for me it was something I had never done because it looked weird but as time went, I really enjoyed posting.


              Moving on, the pinnacle of the experience was our meeting in Karlsruhe, Germany. It felt as though we had known each other for years. We spent a few unforgettable days together, exploring the city, sharing stories in person, and enjoying meals. One aspect that particularly struck me was the culture shock—experiencing daylight until 8 PM, which was quite a contrast to my home country where it gets dark by 6 PM. Additionally, I was amazed by how clean the city was, with no litter in sight. I discovered new culinary delights, with schnitzel becoming a fast favorite, and immersed myself in the local culture and climate. Living in a new environment and immersing myself in different cultures for that short period became  incredibly enriching. I gained a deeper appreciation for our global community's diversity and interconnectedness. I am pleased to say that my expectations for this program were more than achieved. The experiences and knowledge I gained surpassed what I initially hoped for.The experience, though brief, was incredibly enriching and left me yearning for more (Given a chance, I  would love to participate in the next and many more  VIEL inter-exchange programs to come, just to embrace the global diversity, that I experienced). It was an unforgettable chapter, one for the books.



              I wholeheartedly recommend the VIEL Project to anyone. It's an experience worth sharing with friends, family, and even future generations. The friendships, memories, and mementos I've gained are testaments to the profound impact of the VIEL Project—truly an experience of a lifetime. In conclusion I want to express my sincere gratitude to the program organizers and fellow colleagues for their support and guidance. Your passion and dedication to the project were truly inspiring.



              Addition from October 2024

              During the exchange visit in Kenya, we shared an enriching blend of cultural and professional experiences with our German colleagues( Julia &Judith).  Among the highlights was a scenic sunset cruise, where we encountered jellyfish drifting alongside our boat, an unexpected and mesmerizing glimpse into Kenya’s marine life. This serene setting fostered moments of quiet reflection and connection as we took in the coastal beauty together.

              We also took a long, walk along the beach, which felt like a hike with its rugged shorelines, offering our German friends a deeper appreciation of Kenya’s coastal landscape. Another memorable experience was our visit to the local market, where second-hand items are sold amid a bustling atmosphere. This sparked meaningful discussions about sustainable practices and everyday life in Kenya. Shared meals featuring Kenyan dishes further bonded our group, making each gathering feel warm and memorable.


              These moments of cultural immersion strengthened our understanding of each other’s worlds, and everyone expressed expressed appreciation for the new perspectives gained. This visit showcased the power of exchange, leaving us with invaluable memories, stronger connections, and inspiration for future collaborations.

              What lingers most from this experience isn’t just what we learned, but how we felt—watching the jellyfish float by, hiking rugged beach paths, and gathering around Kenyan dishes. These are the ties that truly connect us.

              • Alice: "I believe the friendships and knowledge gained will stay with me for a long time"

                Introduction:
                I'm thrilled to share the exiting opportunity to participate in a unique intercultural event that brought together students from Kenya [Alice, John and Mercy], Germany [Judith and Jullie], and Ireland [Paul]. This event was a blend of workshops, travel, and socialization, which provided a rich platform for cultural exchange and learning.

                Pre-Event Virtual Meetings:
                Before we met in person, we had several virtual meetings designed to help us get to know each other and break the ice. These sessions were essential in building rapport and easing cultural barriers and offered a great bonding session for all of us such that after meeting it felt like we had known each other for almost a decade. The virtual meetings allowed us to discuss our expectations, share a bit about our cultures, and set the tone for the upcoming in-person meetings and travel.

                Workshops and Activities:
                The workshops were a highlight of the event. They were meticulously organized to foster collaboration, learning, and cultural exchange. Each workshop had a different focus, ranging from discussions on podcast creation by Dr. Yvonne Clearly from the University of Limerick in Ireland, this was a great chance to interview each other and understand more about specific aspects of our friends daily activities to their hobbies. 'I learned that Jullie likes horse riding which i admire but it's a bit engaging to learn and access the horse especially from Kilifi Kenya'.  Intercultural aspects in communication by Dr. Rukia Swaleh and Alexander Muthanga from Pwani University Kenya offered great insights on understanding different forms of communication which was helpful during the travel. We also had a chance to be taken through the Visualization course which was so exiting, my attention was caught by the issue of how we first present ourselves especially during different set of meetings to how we present information..this was by Belinda Oechsler from Hochschule Karlsruhe University of applied Sciences, Germany and Edith Miano from Pwani University Kenya. We later learned more of video editing skills by Alicia Rieger from Hochschule Karlsruhe University of applied sciences, Germany. This was also fun since we had to create a video of the experiences we had during the trip, doing that relieved the memory and longing for a continuous interaction more than ever. The diversity in the group brought a wealth of perspectives, making the workshops intellectually stimulating and culturally enriching.

                Travel to Germany:
                Traveling to Germany was another significant part of the experience. It was my first time visiting the country, and it was fascinating to immerse myself in German culture while interacting with my friends from different international cultures. The travel experience allowed us to apply what we had learned during the workshops in a real-world context, as we navigated cultural differences and built stronger connections.



                Social and Cultural Exchange:
                The event wasn't just about formal learning; we also had ample time for social activities, we played some exiting kenyan game at the garden near the castle and it was really interesting and refreshing, we did shopping and went for walks while sharing alot. I enjoyed the joint meals especially 'schnitzel' which is a traditional meal in Germany. These moments, whether over meals, during sightseeing, or simply hanging out, were invaluable. They provided a more relaxed environment to share stories, laugh, and understand each other on a personal level. The mix of cultures created a vibrant atmosphere where everyone was eager to learn and share.


                Conclusion:
                This intercultural event was an unforgettable experience that broadened my horizons and deepened my understanding of different cultures. The blend of virtual meetings, workshops, and travel created a comprehensive experience that was both educational and enjoyable. It was a privilege to be part of such a diverse group, and I believe the friendships and knowledge gained will stay with me for a long time.
                My heartfelt appreciation to my friends whom we related as family and found hard to part ways though we really had to. I appreciate everyone who was involved to make the whole process a success including our workshop lecturers and also Prof Sissi Closs the project lead. It has been a great exchange program that created an unforgettable experience in my life. Thank you.

                Addition from October 2024

                Hosting the German students in Kenya was truly unforgettable. We had such a good time exploring together, I enjoyed the stroll through the local market, where they were fascinated by all the different foods, crafts, and lively energy. I also can't forget the memorable dinner we had together, laughing and trading stories, which really helped us get to know each other better and reconnect after our physical meetup in Germany. 


                One of my favorite moments was our walk along the beach; it was so relaxed and fun, letting us enjoy the scenery and just be ourselves, we took some pictures holding on to the memories. As a thoughtful touch, they even brought German chocolates to share—a little taste of home from their side. This time together left me with amazing memories and a deep appreciation for the friendships we built.