In the winter semester of 2022/23, four Deutschlandstipendien were awarded at the Media University. One of them went to Sarmini Sivanathan, a Cologne-based master’s student who talks about her studies (M.A. Digital Journalism) and her volunteer work in a short interview.
Hello Sarmini, congratulations on winning the Deutschlandstipendium! How and when did you find out about the scholarship?
I was on my way home from university when I received a call from an unknown number. When Prof. Freytag introduced himself, I assumed that I had missed some kind of deadline. At first, I was relieved that this was not the case – and then, of course, I was all the more pleased that I had been selected as a scholarship holder!
You are studying for an Master in Digital Journalism. Why did you choose this course and what do you particularly like about it?
Becoming a journalist was one of the many dreams I had as a child. It is obvious that digital journalism in particular is becoming more and more important in today’s world. What I particularly like about the course is that we get to do a lot of practical work. Personally, I learn better that way and also gain a lot more experience for future projects. Last year, for example, my fellow students and I set up a blog about the future of journalism.
In addition to good grades, personal commitment is also required to win the Deutschlandstipendium. What other commitments do you have alongside your studies?
During my bachelor’s degree, I had the chance to volunteer with AIESEC Göttingen and gain valuable experience that is also a great advantage in my current work-study program. I am currently active in Weitblick Köln e.V., a student association that focuses on educational equality. I am part of the board and responsible for internal and external communication. This activity alongside my studies not only contributes to my professional and personal development, but is also an opportunity to give something back to other people. For example, we currently have educational projects running in Germany and abroad that are giving many children new access to education. And it is precisely in such changes that I see the meaning of volunteering.
Thank you for the interview and all the best for your studies and your association projects!
