Meet Nils

I think one universal thing I would like to stress is that everyone’s experience in studying LAS is going to be different in terms of interests, specialization or even satisfaction with the program. So, if you consider studying at UCF, you should be prepared to be surprised, to change plans, to challenge your ideas and sometimes to live with some insecurity about where you’re going.

The second, almost universal experience, is equally emotional, yet more consistently pleasant. It is a recurring excitement or emotional involvement with what I am doing. It may be sparked by an encounter with a new idea that connects me with a fascinating aspect of the Life Sciences, a discussion about Philosophy of Science in the common room, or just enjoying the feeling of togetherness at a LAS camping weekend.

Academically, I am focusing on the convergence of the Life Sciences Major with mathematical and computational modeling, specifically Systems Biology and Computational Neuroscience. Pursuing this interest requires me to go beyond what is offered in the Life Science Major, e.g. by participating in the Double Degree Program with University College Maastricht. I would definitely recommend the combination of this exchange with the Life Science Major, as UCM offers many courses that build upon the basic Life Sciences modules in Freiburg.

Pursuing my specific interests would certainly have been more difficult in a bachelor program with a fixed curriculum, so for me, the flexibility of LAS was a huge benefit. Compared with a normal degree in a natural science, however, I feel like my knowledge of biology has definitely more gaps. Personally, I think this tradeoff is worth it, especially because I enter courses I chose myself with much more motivation than compulsory ones.

Lastly, I wouldn’t want you to underestimate the influence of the very intimate and sociable environment at UCF. As important as academic aspects are for me, my friends and colleagues in Freiburg have really shaped my studies more than anything, and I think this feeling is shared by many in the LAS community. Small classes/cohorts, a very active student body (students council, committees) and an always approachable staff certainly contribute to this feeling, just as the friendly, yet combative attitude in discussions that seems to be a common trademark of LAS students.        

And btw, coming by for an Open Day is always a great idea to get a feeling for everything beyond the mere curriculum and see for yourself the undoubted beauty of Freiburg.

(January 2019)