Kia ora & Guten Tag! In this episode, host Mareike Schmidt chats with Gemma Dykshoorn, a University of Auckland student who spent a full exchange year at the University of Freiburg in Germany.

Gemma shares what it was like to live and study in Germany for twelve months — from navigating the application process with 360International to settling into life in Freiburg. With Dutch roots and a strong connection to Europe, she reflects on cultural surprises, academic life, and what “being among ze Germans” really felt like.

Whether you’re curious about studying abroad, applying for exchange, or just love hearing real student stories, this episode is packed with insight, humour, and practical advice.

🎒In this episode, we talk about:

• Why Gemma chose Freiburg for her exchange
• Her experience applying through 360International at UoA
• First impressions and culture shock moments
• What surprised her most about German life
• Lowlights, highlights, and everything in between
• How the exchange shaped her career goals
• Her top tips for future exchange students

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

Bis bald — see you soon!

More general information about the University in Freiburg

https://uni-freiburg.de

Check out exchange options with 360International at University of Auckland

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

Stay informed about opportunities with DAAD Scholarships

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

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

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