From a different perspective

"I've always observed everyday situations and asked myself why we actually act the way we do and whether everything could be completely different," says Camilla (23), who is now in her 6th semester studying sociology in Kassel. "Questioning these small everyday things and perhaps coming to new conclusions is what I'm learning in my studies, and that fascinates me." If, like Camilla, you wonder how societies function and which values and norms influence our actions, sociology is the right subject for you. Sociology studies how people live together - in societies, families or other groups. The Bachelor's degree course in Sociology at the University of Kassel also provides methodological knowledge to enable you to enter professional life afterwards. From journalism and human resources to market research or management consultancy - there is a wide range of career opportunities for graduates of a sociology degree.

More about the Bachelor's degree course in Sociology at the University of Kassel: www.uni-kassel.de/go/b_soziologie/

Looking at society and politics from a different perspective and understanding them better - this prospect also motivated Laurenz (22) to combine political science and sociology. Whether it's a seminar on German trade unions or a lecture on international relations: He particularly appreciates the broad range of international topics he has dealt with during his studies. At school, he attended the PoWi advanced course, "but back then I lacked an eye for the big picture and the exchange with other interested people. Today, I sit in seminars with people who are passionate about the subject, which often leads to exciting discussions."

Political scientists conduct research into political systems, international relations, economics, the environment and development policy, for example. Their knowledge is in demand on the job market. After graduating, they work as journalists, for example, contribute their expertise to foundations, associations and political parties, do public relations work for companies or conduct research at universities.

More about the Bachelor's degree course in Political Science at the University of Kassel: www.uni-kassel.de/go/b_politikwissenschaft

"Kassel has really grown on me"

As a native of Marburg, Camilla ended up in Kassel by chance: "My partner also works here, which is why I chose Kassel. The city has really grown on me in the meantime." She was also impressed by the close support from the lecturers, the diverse range of seminars and the exchange in small learning groups: "I attended many courses with eight to fifteen participants. It's a completely different learning atmosphere and much better support than at an anonymous mass university."

Laurenz took a pragmatic approach to choosing where to study: "Right from the start, I found it positive that there are different ways to get into university in Kassel and that it is also possible to study with an apprenticeship or a vocational baccalaureate, for example." This means you come into contact with very different life paths and perspectives during your studies.

More about studying without an Abitur at the University of Kassel: www.uni-kassel.de/go/studieren-ohne-abitur

"It looks like a mini village on campus"

He appreciates the atmosphere on campus with teaching and living spaces, the library, the AStA student house and nice cafés, all in one place. "Here in the Faculty around Nora-Platiel-Straße, it looks like a mini village, with the red brick, small alleyways and lots of greenery in between," adds Camilla. The two agree on their favorite places on campus: the green Mensa forecourt is a good place to sit in the sun with friends. But the campus garden and the Café Pavillon are also great places to relax.

Laurenz is involved in the student council: "We organize educational events, help with the start of studies and organize parties and games evenings. I can only recommend getting involved and contributing your strengths and interests. As a student, you can really help shape things and get to know people along the way." To balance out their studies, they both like to take advantage of the university sports program: Camilla plays volleyball and Laurenz has discovered rowing.

"We learn techniques that are versatile"

It is not yet clear what will happen next for the two of them. Laurenz can imagine studying for a Master's degree in Kassel: "Kassel offers a wide range of Master's courses in political science. I also like the practical relevance here."

Camilla would also like to do a Master's in Kassel. She is optimistic about the future. She has learned "that sociology doesn't teach you a ready-made job description, but techniques that can be applied in many different ways." Statistics, for example, is relevant in many professions. The corresponding module "has given me the confidence that I will leave university with skills that are in demand on the job market," she emphasizes.

Good future prospects, exciting discussions, a beautiful campus and small study groups - all in all, Laurenz and Camilla are happy with their choice of course. Laurenz has a tip for anyone who is still deciding: "Just sit in on lectures that sound interesting." Camilla adds: "Offers such as the study and career information days can also help you get an overview." And if in doubt, they both think: Just start!

At the University of Kassel, there are many orientation offers. For example, the course directory for prospective students offers the opportunity to take part in selected courses of the degree programs. There are also other advisory and information services. More information at: www.uni-kassel.de/go/studieninteressierte

Camilla and Laurenz are studying a "dual-subject Bachelor'sdegree". This means that they choose a major and a minor subject. They were able to choose from over ten minor subjects. An overview of all combinable subjects can be found at: www.uni-kassel.de/go/Kombinationsbachelor

The article originally appeared in: "StadtZeit Kassel", No. 116, Volume 20 (June/July 2023 issue). The entire magazine is available online at: https: //stadtzeit-kassel.de/pdf/StadtZeit-116.pdf