Kia ora & Guten Tag! In this episode, host Mareike Schmidt speaks with Sara McKoy, a University of Auckland graduate who received a DAAD scholarship to attend an intensive German language course — the Winter Course — in Berlin.

Sara shares her journey from the stressful wait for her scholarship confirmation to ringing in the New Year (Silvester!) in Germany’s capital. With a strong interest in politics, history, and journalism, she reflects on how learning German deepened her understanding of European perspectives and opened new academic doors. From culture shock moments to practical advice, this episode is full of insight for anyone considering studying German abroad.

🎒In this episode, we talk about:

• How Sara applied for the DAAD Winter Course
• The emotional rollercoaster of waiting for the scholarship decision
• What it was like to spend Silvester in Berlin
• How her interests in politics, history, and journalism connect with learning German
• Culture shock moments and how she adapted
• Her advice for future DAAD applicants and German learners

If you enjoyed this episode, follow Kia Ora & Guten Tag: Exchange Stories on your favourite podcast platform and share it with someone dreaming of studying in Germany.

Bis bald — see you soon!

Stay informed about opportunities with DAAD Scholarships

https://www.daad-newzealand.org/en/find-funding/scholarship-database/

Check out exchange options with 360International at University of Auckland

https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/study/study-options/360-international.html

Your options to study German Abroad with the University of Auckland

https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/arts/current-students/student-exchange-and-study-abroad0/study-abroad/german.html

More general information about the University of Heidelberg

https://www.uni-heidelberg.de/de

More general information about the University in Freiburg

https://uni-freiburg.de

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This podcast is made possible with support from the DAAD Lectureship Programme.