GFL specialization in focus: A podcast portrait

13 international Master's students developed a five-part podcast about their own department as part of a project seminar (AM2 module). In approximately 30-minute episodes, they conducted interviews with department heads, lecturers, administrative staff and students, creating an authentic portrait from different perspectives.

The students were responsible for every step of the process, from concept development, logo design and music selection to technical post-production. In the process, they acquired important skills in media design, presentation and free speech. The project was supported by the Teaching Service Center with professional recording technology.

Aylin and Maksim spoke to the professors in charge of the department, Karin Aguado and Sandra Drumm, and asked questions that may also be relevant for prospective or new students: How is the department structured? What is special about it? And what prospects are there after graduation? An authentic conversation about goals, challenges and the future of the department.

Transcript of episode 1

In this episode, Nahyun and Thu present authentic insights into studying at the department. They explain their reasons for choosing to study and share their experiences of various courses. In conversation with two other students from the 2nd and 4th semesters, vivid impressions of everyday life as a student emerge. The interviews shed light on personal study experiences, favorite courses and the course of studies from different semester perspectives.

Transcript for episode 2

The third episode dives deep into the internship module. Abir and Isabella not only share their own experiences, but also have a lively conversation with the lecturer in charge, Dr. Dagmara Meyer-Warneke, about the approach and goals of the module. In addition, there are authentic reports from two other students about their internship experiences and skills development. This episode shows why the internship module is much more than just a compulsory component of the course.

Transcript for episode 3

This episode is (not only) for anyone who has ever sat in front of a blank page. In this episode, Anna and Yunlin give a clear "yes" to writing advice and to consciously dealing with the challenges of academic writing. Together with Lea, a writing consultant in the department, they explore what support options are available during difficult writing phases. They also have a conversation with Dr. Marina Adams, a lecturer from the university's Language Center, who offers courses on academic writing and advises on writing issues. A podcast episode with an encouraging feeling: you are not alone!

Transcript for episode 4

In the last episode, Mai Linh, Yujing and Loan take a look behind the scenes of the study organization. They have invited two important guests: the secretary of the department Nora Dotzert and a representative of the examinations office Birgit Hirschberger. Together they clarify practical questions such as: What concerns do students come to which office with? How long does the degree course actually take? And what role does the Examinations Office play in the study process? The episode focuses on the people and processes that keep the degree course running.

Transcript for episode 5