From South Africa to Germany: A UKZN Student’s Semester Abroad

International Development Studies student Ms Nomthandazo Ncwaba spent five months on an academic exchange venture at Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) in Germany, where she embraced a new learning environment – immersing herself in the academic, cultural and social experience of living abroad.

Ncwaba’s motivation for studying internationally stemmed from a desire to expand her academic and cultural understanding. She also wanted to broaden her thinking, learn from new environments, and gain exposure to global development practices while building meaningful networks that could support her future career aspirations.

The UKZN student relished studying abroad, enjoyed interacting with fellow students and learning new skills. “The most rewarding aspect of my study experience was the opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives in an international academic environment. Collaborating with students from different cultural and professional backgrounds broadened my understanding of global development issues and strengthened my ability to think critically and adapt in new environments,” she said.

Adjusting to cultural and language differences was one of the biggest challenges Ncwaba faced, while settling into new social norms, learning to navigate day-to-day interactions, and aligning with academic expectations required patience and resilience. Through time, this process strengthened her communication abilities and cultural understanding.

Among her cherished memories of Germany are the Christmas markets and the festive winter atmosphere. She enjoyed the colourful lights, traditional foods, and lively energy of the season and also appreciated the ease of travelling by public transport, which allowed her to explore different cities and landscapes across the country. The winter season was a new experience for her, and she embraced dressing warmly, enjoying the snowy scenery, and visiting neighbouring countries such as France and Switzerland.

Her time abroad also gave her the opportunity to explore local dishes and participate in cultural and student activities, which helped her connect with new people and experience the country beyond the academic environment.

Ncwaba plans to pursue a career in international development, with her aim being to create meaningful social impact through sustainable and community-driven initiatives. Her study abroad experience has inspired her to explore further professional opportunities in Europe, having broadened her personal and professional perspective in significant ways.

She strongly encourages young students to take advantage of study abroad opportunities. From her own experience, she believes that international exposure plays an essential role in shaping personal growth, professional development, and global understanding.

– Ncwaba’s study exchange programme was made possible by the Erasmus+ student mobility funding – which is a European Union programme for education, training, youth and sport, empowering individuals and organisations to grow and connect across Europe and beyond. To find out more about studying abroad, please e-mail Ms Preshantha Reddy, the Student Exchange/Study Abroad Co-ordinator at the International Relations Office.

Words: Raylene Captain-Hasthibeer

Photographs: Supplied