The University of Stuttgart boasts a broad range of study programs. This attracts interest worldwide. Yerden Assanov from Kazakhstan completed a Bachelor’s degree in Technology Management and then discovered his passion for Technical Cybernetics in his master’s program. Since his first semester, the 27-year-old has been actively involved in volunteer work – as a student representative, a tutor in the MentorING program [de], a mentor in the Intercultural Mentoring Program, and currently as a mathematics tutor.
Congratulations Mr. Assanov. What does the DAAD award mean to you?
The award, which I truly did not expect, is for me a recognition of all my work to date. Ultimately, I am still an international student who is a guest in this country. Receiving such an award means a great deal to me – it makes you feel seen and appreciated.
When and why did you come to Germany?
I came to Germany back in 2014 with the goal of studying engineering. My father worked with engineers from Germany, which inspired me. In Bavaria, I attended a boarding school, where I also completed my Abitur.
What motivated you to study at the University of Stuttgart?
The Bachelor’s program in Technology Management is not a pure mechanical engineering degree; it combines engineering and business modules. That matched my interests very well at the time. During the course of my studies, I discovered my interest in mathematics and automatic control engineering, and decided to pursue a Master’s degree in Engineering Cybernetics.
What excites you about your field of study – and can you explain to non-experts what you are researching?
Learning specific mathematical methods makes it possible to analyze various problems from a systems perspective and find solutions for them. In addition, studying Cybernetics also makes it possible to specialize in areas such as robotics and artificial intelligence.
You have been involved in volunteer work at the university since your first semester. Is volunteer work important to you?
I simply enjoy helping people. In my life, I have indeed been fortunate to meet a few incredible people who have inspired and motivated me. For this reason, I want to help others and make a positive contribution. Maybe I’ve helped someone, and they go on to help others – forming a chain of kindness. There have also been moments in my life when I needed help myself.
When I see someone in a similar situation, I offer advice and invite them for a cup of tea, because conversations flow more easily that way. I also help many Russian-speaking students at the university who are not well connected with German students. I try to connect them with other Russian-speaking students and assist them wherever I can – regardless of whether they come from Kazakhstan, Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, or another country.
Are there any experiences that made a strong impression on you?
As a mentor in the Intercultural Mentoring Program, I had a really cool mentee from Turkey. He had never been to a thermal bath before, so a few friends and I went with him to the thermal baths in Bad Cannstatt. I also showed him other typical "German" things, even though I’m not German myself.
You have lived in Germany for a long time ...
Yes, I have lived in Germany for eleven years and have settled in here fairly well. I can’t say anymore that I feel 100% Kazakh, but I don’t feel German either. I try to take the best of both countries and their cultures with me. People in Germany are very helpful and friendly – at least that’s been my experience at the university. It does takes time to get used to the rhythm, the rules, and life in Germany. I believe everyone needs to find their own 'formula' for learning to live here.
During your studies, you worked in various companies and research institutions – what experiences did you gain from that?
Only positive ones! I learned to work in a structured way and to communicate with different people transparently and clearly. I did various internships and led tutorials because I really enjoy helping people. I truly believe that knowledge helps people move forward. In addition, I worked as a programmer, broadly speaking, and tried out different areas through various activities. Now I know what interests me, and I am grateful for every single experience. This is the only way to discover yourself and your own preferences.
Do you want to continue your volunteer work, and would you advise others to do the same?
Yes, I would. I don't have much time at the moment because I have to concentrate on my Master's degree, but maybe I'll be back mentoring at IZ in the summer.
I would really recommend it to anyone. I believe that through contact with so many people from different countries, I have learned that I can strike up a conversation with almost anyone. People also often think that they know one culture or another well. But then suddenly you meet people who completely change that opinion. This allows you to develop yourself further and broaden your horizons.
What are you currently doing, and what are your plans for the future?
I am currently working as a math tutor and will soon begin my Master's thesis. Thanks to the prize money, I can live comfortably for a good month. To be honest, I don't really know what the future will hold. I would definitely like to stay in Germany and build a career here, either in business or research. I always take one step at a time.
Winners from previous years
2024: Candy Adusei Wins DAAD Prize for Academic and Volunteer Excellence
2023: DAAD Prize for Skander Kamoun
2022: DAAD prize for Abdelwaheb El Houimel