Deutschlandstipendium Scholar, Ayse Yaren Bato from Turkey, Pursues a Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering (Software Engineering Focus) at the University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany

My name is Ayse Yaren Bato, and I am originally from Canakkale, Turkey. I am currently studying Computer Engineering with a focus on Software Engineering (Bachelor's) at Duisburg-Essen University in Germany. From an early age, I have been deeply interested in how technology shapes our world. I decided to pursue this field not only because I enjoy problem-solving and innovation but also because I believe that computer engineering is one of the most important and future-oriented professions. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, I am motivated to be part of this change and to contribute to creating digital solutions that can improve people’s lives.

Educational Background

I completed high school at Bursa TOFAS Science High School, where I studied as a boarding student, graduating with a GPA of 95.3/100. Living away from my family at a young age helped me adapt to a new environment early on; it was, in many ways, a preparation for studying abroad. This experience taught me how to manage responsibilities independently, face challenges with resilience, and develop strong problem-solving and communication skills. After high school, I attended Özyeğin University in Istanbul, where I completed the English Preparatory Program (2020–2021) to strengthen my English skills. Then I studied in the German Preparatory Class at Ruhr University Bochum (2021–2022), which helped me adapt to the academic and cultural environment in Germany. Since 2022, I have been pursuing my Computer Engineering degree at Duisburg-Essen University, focusing on Software Engineering and continuously improving both my technical and analytical abilities.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Duisburg-Essen University?

The period when I was preparing to apply to Duisburg-Essen University coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, which meant that I had to stay home for long periods. I used this time productively by doing extensive online research about universities in Germany, scholarship opportunities, and the admission process. In addition, I worked on developing my CV by taking several online courses and earning certificates in areas such as leadership, management, and programming. These helped me gain both technical and soft skills that strengthened my application. I also focused on improving my English and German language proficiency and preparing all the necessary documents early. All these efforts allowed me to apply confidently to Duisburg-Essen University and helped me transition smoothly into academic life in Germany.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

Yes, I was awarded the Deutschlandstipendium, one of Germany’s most prestigious scholarships for talented and motivated students. This program is supported by both the German Federal Government and private sector institutions, such as companies and foundations, that sponsor students in their fields of study. The scholarship not only provides financial support but also offers a wide range of exclusive events and networking opportunities for scholars. These include cultural activities, workshops, and company visits, which allow students to get to know the sponsoring organizations more closely and to understand how their studies connect to real-world professional environments. Being a Deutschlandstipendium scholar has greatly motivated me to continue improving myself academically and personally while building valuable connections for my future career.

What Drew You to Choose Germany to Pursue Your Degree?

I chose Germany because of its strong reputation for high-quality education, especially in engineering and technology. The opportunity to study with low or no tuition fees and to gain hands-on experience in a country known for innovation were key factors in my decision. Additionally, the multicultural environment in Germany allows international students to grow academically and personally.

What Were Some of the Challenges You Faced as an International Student?

One of the main challenges I faced as an international student in Germany was managing living expenses, as accommodation and daily costs can be quite high compared to Turkey. However, international students in Germany are legally allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week, and I was able to take advantage of this opportunity. Working part-time not only helped me support my living costs but also allowed me to experience the German work culture firsthand. Through this, I learned a lot about time management, teamwork, and professional communication in an international environment. Balancing work and studies was challenging at times, but it greatly contributed to my personal growth and independence.

Would You Recommend Studying in Germany?

Yes, I would definitely recommend studying in Germany. The public universities offer high-quality education with very low tuition fees, and the academic environment encourages critical thinking and innovation. International students benefit from research opportunities, global exposure, and diverse career options. However, it’s important to be prepared for the cultural and linguistic adjustments.

How Was Your Experience at Duisburg-Essen University?

My experience at Duisburg-Essen University has been very positive and enriching. The professors are supportive and highly knowledgeable, and the university provides excellent academic and research facilities for engineering students. I am currently enrolled in the ISE (International Studies in Engineering) program, where the education is conducted partly in German and partly in English. This unique structure has allowed me to expand my network both internationally and among German students. I believe this will be a significant advantage after graduation, as I have had the opportunity to use and maintain two major languages simultaneously while also learning to collaborate across different cultures and perspectives. Overall, studying here has helped me grow academically, culturally, and personally.

How Do You Rate Duisburg-Essen University Academically and Why?

I would rate Duisburg-Essen University very highly in terms of academic quality and international orientation. The university offers a strong curriculum that combines both theoretical and practical knowledge, especially in the field of engineering. One of the most valuable aspects of my experience is being part of the ISE (International Studies in Engineering) program. This is a unique bilingual program that is not available at every university. In Germany, most engineering programs are fully taught in German; however, Duisburg-Essen University recognizes the importance of English as a global language in today’s world. The university’s own motto, 'open-minded,' is clearly reflected in the creation of the ISE program. By developing such an inclusive and forward-thinking structure, the university demonstrates its commitment to diversity, global collaboration, and academic accessibility. Through courses offered in both German and English, the ISE program not only helps international students adapt more easily but also prepares all students for a globalized professional world. I believe this bilingual and open-minded approach makes Duisburg-Essen University truly stand out among other institutions in Germany.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or German?

In Germany, most Bachelor’s programs are primarily taught in German, as it is the country’s official academic language. However, some universities, though relatively few, offer programs that are conducted entirely in English or in a bilingual format (German-English). At Duisburg-Essen University, I am enrolled in the ISE (International Studies in Engineering) program, which follows this bilingual model. My courses are offered partly in English and partly in German, allowing students to strengthen both languages while studying. For Master’s programs, the situation is more balanced; students can usually find an almost equal number of programs in both German and English, providing greater flexibility for international applicants.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing German?

In Germany, most Bachelor’s courses are taught mainly in German, so during the first semester, it can be challenging to get used to the academic terminology. However, universities are aware of this and provide various forms of support. For example, many universities organize language cafés where students can practice German in an informal environment every week. These sessions are a great opportunity to improve conversational skills and gain confidence in using the language. Additionally, the university libraries offer a wide range of resources, including bilingual textbooks and technical dictionaries, which help students strengthen their technical German vocabulary. In courses that are conducted in English, the terminology is generally easier to understand compared to German-taught courses, but these classes still require consistent study and preparation. Overall, while there may be an initial language barrier, the support systems available make it completely manageable for international students.