Joint MA Intercultural German Studies (IcGS)

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo?

Before starting the IcGS program, I got my Bachelor’s degree in German and English with the “Lehramtsoption” at the University of Heidelberg. 

What are your interests in German Studies?

During my Bachelor studies, I focused on 20^th Century literature, especially Nelly Sachs’ and Paul Celan’s post-war poetry. Recently, I’ve really enjoyed studying linguistic topics such as conversation analysis, medical communication, and the language of populism.

Why did you choose the University of Waterloo?

I chose the joint IcGS program at the universities of Mannheim and Waterloo because, on one hand, it was a perfectly suitable continuation for my Bachelor studies: Learning about German from an intercultural perspective AND studying abroad in an English-speaking country. On the other hand, I was intrigued by the possibility of developing my academic and personal skills working and/or doing an internship abroad. Among many other things, I’m also looking forward to trying out some of the university’s sports clubs!

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

Currently, I’m set on writing a linguistic Master’s thesis, but I definitely haven’t decided on the exact topic yet. 

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

In kindergarten, I was the biggest fan of the TV series ‘Flipper’, which made me want to become either a professional pearl diver or a marine biologist. Easier said than done living in rural Germany!

What is a fun fact about you?

I’m a trained track and field youth coach and have been doing track and field for more than two-thirds of my life.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo?

Before I came to the University of Waterloo, I studied Germanic Studies and Educational Science at the University of Heidelberg and had my first state examination. Instead of becoming a teacher at a grammar school, I followed my passion – writing. I spent a couple of years as an editor, working for a German newspaper after I decided to join this Masters’ program. Fortunately, my current employer has offered me a chance to come back after my studies.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I’m mainly interested in applied linguistics. My research work focused on common phrases in media articles concerning economics. Besides German philology and cultural studies, I am interested in traditional and digital media, which are addressed in the subject area “specific media sciences”.

Why did you choose the University of Waterloo?

It’s part of the Masters’ program. So honestly, I didn’t really get a choice :)

However, it’s the best match for me. I appreciate the familiar atmosphere at our department and the interaction with Canadian colleagues. I enjoy my encounters with different people and their ways of thinking and finding solutions, as well as the challenges that derive from it all. It's a great opportunity for my personal and professional development.

Why did you choose this program?

The IcGS program gives me a fantastic opportunity to dig deeper into the understanding of linguistics and see analyses from another angle, for example: How the German language is perceived on an intercultural level? How do foreigners perceive Germans?

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I don’t have a catchy title as of now, but it will definitely be dealing with media and its’ impact on society. In particular, I want to focus on the role of foreign media for immigrants and temporary residents. Is there a real demand in Canada – or is it just a rule what has been written into the Canadian Act that has no meaning in everyday life? These are questions which drive me. Now it’s my turn to find answers…

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to become a florist – at least that’s what I wrote in some friendship books. Now I’m happy that I changed my mind and am still working as an editor. I think my orchids are delightful, too.

What is something people wouldn't guess about you?

I plunder my whole advent calendar in the first week of December. I’m addicted to chocolate. That’s why my mum decided to buy me one with pictures only.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied the BA 'Culture and Economy: German studies' with a minor in business administration at the University of Mannheim.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I am especially interested in the cultural aspects of literature and language and their connections to other disciplines. For example my BA thesis was about how literary reflections of the concepts moral, time and space were influenced by economic developments. I tend to lean more towards literary studies than linguistics.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

The University of Waterloo has an excellent academic reputation and a lot of opportunities to get engaged in campus life (like clubs). Furthermore, during my exchange semester in Boston I discovered that I like the learning experience at North American Universities that emphasize collaborating with your professors and working closely with the department, so I wanted to complete my graduate degree abroad and UW offered the perfect program.

Why did you choose this program?

I was really intrigued by the IcGS-program because it fits right into my research interest and offers the opportunity to explore (inter)cultural aspects by studying abroad. The transcultural approach and integrated modules that encourage doing academic work appealed to me.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

Not really. I know that I am probably going to write it in literary studies, but have no research question yet. I am working on it though.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I had multiple ideas: I was really fascinated with musicals and wanted to perform in them as an actress until I realized that people would be watching me then. When I was a teenager I wanted to become a makeup artist or therapist, because according to my logic both helped people to feel good. Later I also added author and professor to that list. I guess we'll see if I end up in one of those professions when I finally grow up. ;)

What is something people wouldn't guess about you?

I am really bad at opening things, be it bottles, doors, boxes, you name it. I will need help or tools to open it (otherwise I am a strong, independent woman).

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I did may bachelors at the University of Mannheim in German and English/American Studies.

What are your interests in German Studies?

My focus is on literature. Within that I focus on social and cultural problems.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

It´s a great place to live and to study. Also, it is known to be a very good university.

Why did you choose this program?

Mostly because I got the chance to study and live here in Canada for a whole year. Also, having a Joint Degree is pretty amazing.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

Honestly, I have no clue yet.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An Astronaut.

What is something people wouldn't guess about you?

I really enjoy watching gaming stuff on YouTube (unfortunately, I have no time and no suitable computer to play).

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied “Germanistik im Kulturvergleich“ and English Studies at Heidelberg University.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I am particularly interested in comparative linguistics, language acquisition, as well as phonetics and phonology.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

After spending some time in the UK a few years ago, I wanted to live abroad in an English-speaking country again. The ICGS-program offers the amazing opportunity to both study and live in Canada.

Why did you choose this program?

For my future career, I would like to work in an international setting. The program in Waterloo and Mannheim allows me, as a native German speaker, to gain an outside perspective on my own language and culture.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I have some general ideas and will focus on a topic within the realms of linguistics and didactics.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

As a kid, I wanted to either work with children or in a supermarket, as I was fascinated by the “beep” sound the till made.

What is something people wouldn't guess about you?

Even though it’s a costly affair here in Canada, I remain loyal to my penpals and write at least two letters a week – communicating via Facebook or WhatsApp is just not the same.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied the BA 'Culture and Economy: German studies' with a minor in business administration at the University of Mannheim.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I’m interested in literary studies, especially children’s literature and the works and authors I call ‘the overlooked’, because they’re not part of the curriculum in German schools and are overshadowed by Goethe.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

I didn’t. I choose the program and the University of Waterloo was part of it. 

Why did you choose this program?

I felt like this program would be the best opportunity I could get. I have never left Europe or studied abroad so I was super excited about this chance. This is an adventure for me.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

No, but it will be in literary studies. If you have any suggestions, let me know: I have always troubles finding a topic.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A pirate. But also, an author and an engineer, because I wanted to invent something to help my grandpa with his knee problems.

I still want to be a pirate and an author, but let’s be realistic: I won’t become an engineer. Probably.

What is something people wouldn't guess about you?

Even though I really like everything in pink, my favourite music is rock and metal.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied Business administration and German language at University of Mannheim in Germany, and received my B.A. in 2018.

What are your interests in German Studies?

Im interested in German literature  and transcultural studies.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

I fell in love with the program first. That was the reason for me to go to Waterloo. With the university it was love at second sight.

Why did you choose this program?

Because it combines everything I love. German language and intercultural experiences mixed with snow.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

No.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be an author.

What is something people wouldn't guess about you?

I am probably the shyest person on earth. I always overcome my shyness because I love to talk. So there is no other possibility other than socialise :D.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied at the University of Waterloo and graduated with an Honours BA in German with Minors in Peace and Conflict Studies and International Studies in June 2016.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I am interested in applied linguistics and second language acquisition.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

I originally chose the University of Waterloo for its distance education program. After taking two of the online culture courses, I found myself compelled to choose to study German for my major. It’s also one of the few universities in Canada which has an applied linguistics component within German studies.

Why did you choose this program?

I love the fact that I will be able to study in both Germany and in Canada. I am thrilled that literature, culture and linguistics are all components of this program. The icing on the cake (“Das Tüpfelchen auf dem i”), is earning two MA degrees from two well-respected institutions simultaneously.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I am measuring for any differences between the distribution of Jungian personality types (MBTI) within a university second language learner population against the distribution within the general population. I will also be looking at what strategies students use to learn a second language and whether there is any relationship between the strategy and personality type.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

It really depends on which month and which year you would have asked the question. Teacher, translator, journalist, doctor, author, veterinarian, mortician all made the list at some point.

What is a fun-fact about you?

I’ve always been fascinated by the natural world around me. As a child, I would practice “catch and release” hunting techniques. It was not uncommon for my parents to be invited to come outside and see the latest tadpoles, crayfish, sunfish, water beetles, frogs, toads, grasshoppers or snakes I had found and temporarily acquired for the day.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied German here at the University of Waterloo before enrolling in the Intercultural German Studies program.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I am interested in linguistics, as the form and function of literature is much more complicated than it appears on the surface. I am interested in how languages change over time and what factors affect these changes.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

I chose the University of Waterloo because I could not find any other program similar to the IcGS program at a different university. I also know the university quite well, as I completed my undergraduate degree here. I also like the city and the unique history it has to offer.

Why did you choose this program?

I really liked the mix of literature and linguistics offered in this program and there is not another program quite like it. During my undergrad, I got to know the German department here, and I really enjoyed working with the staff here. I felt there was a lot I could learn from them. I also liked the intercultural aspect of the IcGS program and I look forward to furthering my knowledge of the German language and culture while living in Germany.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I am not yet quite sure what I want to write my thesis on, but I am thinking I would like to focus on conversation analysis and the development of language.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

As a child, I wanted to be a firefighter. I even got some practice at it as a child!

What is something people wouldn't guess about you?

I am from South Africa (but I don't speak much Africaans or any of the other languages spoken there).

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I did my bachelor in German and Philosophy at the University of Mannheim.

What are your interests in German Studies?

My research interests are literary and cultural studies (19th-21st century Austrian and German literature, gender and masculinity studies, lyrics of the 19th century).

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

First, I chose the University of Waterloo because I was impressed of the various opportunities this institution offers to graduate students. After watching the rubrics "Profs are people, too!" I was completely convinced that this is a good match for me and knew that I wanted to become a part of this Canadian university.

Why did you choose this program?

"Intercultural German Studies" is a program that stands for progress, quality and adventure. The interaction with Canadian colleagues at the University of Waterloo, the encounters with different ways of thinking and living, as well as the challenges that derive from it all, will be a fulfilling possibility for my personal, intellectual and professional development.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I want to keep an open mind for all available options. So no, I do not already know what I want to write my thesis on.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I always wanted to be a fashion designer. At home, I have a folder of about three hundred pages full of drawn clothes - rather ugly ones actually.

What is something people wouldn’t guess about you?

I am a big fan of "Rammstein", a German rock band - it always calms me down!

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, German, and Chemistry at Michigan State University, and received my B.S. and B.A. in 2017.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I am interested in German film and literature.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

The mascot of the Arts department, Porcellino, is a wild boar, and pork is one of my favourite foods.

Why did you choose this program?

I chose this program because I wanted to experience more of the German language. I had many scientific endeavors in undergrad, and I wanted to spend more time on the artistic side of things. Additionally, I am Canadian, and my mum attended Wilfrid Laurier: I wanted to go back to my roots.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

No.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was a kid, I wanted to be a field agent working for the CIA (as far as you know, that dream came true).

What is a fun fact about you?

I practiced Kung Fu for five years and Tae Kwon Do before that. Don't mess with me!

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo? 

Before I started my Masters I studied the Bachelor "Comparative Studies of Culture and Religion" in Marburg.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I am mainly interested in the relation between language and cultures.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

I had the chance to get to know Waterloo during my exchange term and I am happy to have the chance to go back.

Why did you choose this program?

I believe it is quite an opportunity to study in a different context and thus have the chance to look at things from a new angle.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

Not quite.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

As a kid I always wanted to be like Carla Columna.

What is a fun-fact about you?

I really, really like horses.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied at the National Research University Higher School of Economics. My 4-years Bachelor's Program was called 'Fundamental and Computational Linguistics'. The courses were aimed at building students’ skills in the humanities and in mathematics, as well as in programming. .

What are your interests in German Studies?

I’m especially interested in cultural and linguistic studies.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

University of Waterloo provides a hands-on experience in the respective teaching environments through applied learning modules that are built into the program of study. I have never dreamt of teaching Russian at the university. Being a TA is a wonderful opportunity to get to know your first language from a different perspective.

Why did you choose this program?

I liked IcGS because it is a joint degree program with the University of Waterloo that gives students an opportunity to study the subjects both in German and English, as well as to learn different scientific approaches and views from German and Canadian professors.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

Not yet, probably SLA and language acquisition

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A ballroom dancer. I have been dancing for more than 12 years professionally. Samba, Waltz, Cha-cha-cha, Tango and 6 more dances are in my dancing arsenal.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I’m interested in second language acquisition, bilingualism and translation.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

I grew up in the area, so I was already really familiar with both the university and the city itself. The University of Waterloo feels a lot like home to me.

Why did you choose this program?

The IcGS program seemed really unique and I felt like it would be a great opportunity to develop my skills in German while also being able to study abroad.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I’m not sure exactly what I want to write my thesis on yet.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was a kid, I wanted to be a dentist.

What is a fun-fact about you?

I can shear a sheep by hand. I spent two of my holidays helping out on a sheep farm on the border between Germany and Switzerland and really enjoyed the experience.

Kristin Yaworski was a student in the Intercultural German Studies M.A. program, jointly offered by the Universities of Waterloo and Mannheim. In 2014, she completed a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in both German Studies and History at the University of Manitoba. Her research interests include: contemporary German literature, gender studies and nationalism.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I majored in German Philology and minored in Media and Communication Studies at University of Mannheim in Germany.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I am mostly interested in applied linguistics and all aspects of interculturality.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

Spending one year at University of Waterloo is part of my German-Canadian joint degree "Intercultural German Studies". I already heard about this program several years ago and it directly aroused my interest.

Why did you choose this program?

Having the opportunity to live and study in Canada has probably been the main reason why I chose this program. I am really looking forward to Canadian university culture and studying in another country which will surely help me to develop my intercultural and interdisciplinary skills.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

Not yet, but I am sure that studying at University of Waterloo will help me to work that out.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An author.

What is a fun-fact about you?

My German friends and roommates tend to say that I am attracting funny situations all the time, so I am already excited which stories I will be able to tell after having spent one year in Waterloo.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I’ve studied English, German and Teaching at University of Flensburg, Germany.

What are your interests in German Studies?

After working as a Foreign Language Assistant in England, I’m interested in teaching German as a Foreign Language. Therefore, I’m keen on Second Language Acquisition, grammatical structures, and intercultural challenges, that occur when teaching languages.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

Since I was working as an AuPair in Elmvale, Ontario, I always wanted to come back to Canada. I never knew when, but it was always in my mind. Coming back to Ontario after 5 years feels incredibly exciting.

Why did you choose this program?

The program Intercultural German Studies was my first choice, because I admire the variety of job prospects, that are associated with this joint-degree. And even during the Master program, we all can choose from several courses, that meet our interests individually.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I think it might be related to Linguistics somehow.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

According to my parents, I wanted to work at McDonald’s. Being in love with the Happy Meal as a five-year-old, I explained, that the food is extraordinary delicious, and as a member of staff, I thought I could eat the food every day…

What is something people wouldn’t guess about you?

I’m collecting fancy kitchen towels, and I’m in love with Mary Berry’s cookbooks.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied at the University of Trier and finished my B.A. in German Studies and German as a foreign language in 2014.

What are your interests in German Studies?

My main field of interests lie in language acquisition, bilingualism and basically everything that involves learning and teaching languages.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

During my Bachelor degree studies I have spent 4 months in Canada for an internship at the Goethe - Institut Ottawa and instantly loved the country. When I came back to Germany and after finishing my Bachelor’s it was totally clear to me that I wanted to go abroad for my Master’s again. Therefore I was looking for programs at different universities that included studying at a partner university in Canada – and luckily the University of Mannheim offers such an amazing joint-degree-program.

So I would say that I did not choose Waterloo but Waterloo chose me. And as far as I am concerned I could not have made a better choice since this program has given me the opportunity to really deepen my studies, experiencing new aspects of Canadian culture – academically as well as in everyday life.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I have not made up my mind yet but there is a right time for everything I guess.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

If I remember correctly I wanted to become either a singer like Britney Spears or a veterinarian because I have always loved dogs.

What is a fun-fact about you?

If my hairdresser asks me about whether my hair colour is natural or dyed I instantly loose trust in the hairdresser.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I did my Bachelor's in German Studies and Sociology at University of Mannheim.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I am mostly interested in intercultural topics followed by modern literature.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

I did not choose the University of Waterloo because going there is part of my joint degree. But going to Waterloo was the main reason why I chose the studies. University of Waterloo offers a lot of possibilities to gain practical experiences during the studies. One gets huge support from the Department of Modern Languages and University of Waterloo if one wants to attend a congress and do research.

Why did you choose this program?

I chose the program because I was and I still am so fascinated, that it enables intercultural collaboration in a great interdisciplinary system. Getting the opportunity to do research, and being able to choose individual focuses during the studies are two more arguments to justify my fascination. Besides the studies aren't just theoretical, it is about to act and to exercise the gained knowledge. Doing all this in a great country like Canada is the highlight on top of all named highlights.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a holiday tester, so I could travel the world for free. In case this would not succeed, I wanted to be a film director.

What is a fun-fact about you?

I will be an aunt this summer and I am super super super excited about that!

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I did my Bachelor in German and English at the University of Stuttgart – originating from the Swabian area, I had no choice but sticking there for my undergraduate studies, but now, being a grad student, I’m out exploring the world.

What are your interests in German Studies?

My research interests are second language acquisition, interactions of language, culture and interculturality.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

The University of Waterloo kind of chose me when I was enrolling in the Intercultural German Studies Program – and I wouldn’t want to change.

Why did you choose this program?

Intercultural German Studies combines my interests perfectly: Studying German in Canada offers a new perspective of the perception of the German language – but it’s not only experiencing the language differently: with it comes experiencing another culture while living abroad.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I can see a high probability that it’s going to be in the area of applied linguistics.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Actually, I wanted to be a farmer and own a whole bunch of animals that I can take care of.

What is a fun-fact about you?

Still waters run deep :-)

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied German Studies and Media and Communication Studies at the University of Mannheim and received my bachelor’s degree in 2015.

What are your interests in German Studies?

I am particularly interested in modern literature and cultural studies.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

After receiving my bachelor’s degree I did not only want to deepen my knowledge in German Studies, but also get a new intercultural perspective on this field. The established cooperation between University of Mannheim and University of Waterloo offered me the possibility to broaden my perspective in several aspects: intercultural competency, English proficiency and professional qualification.

Why did you choose this program?

The IcGS program offers the opportunity to combine professional qualification and personal experience in two different cultures and scientific environments – that’s exactly what I was looking for!

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

Not yet, but I think it’s going to be in the area of literary studies.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

The usual veterinarian (although I faint at the sight of blood).

What is something people wouldn’t guess about you?

I eat at least one chocolate bar just about every day.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied B.A. Language and Communication (German-English) in Siegen (NRW, Germany) and afterwards in Mannheim M.A. Intercultural German Studies.

What are your interests in German Studies?

The reason why I like to study my mother tongue is because I think the German language is very complex and interesting. You have a lot to analyse and I love to figure out ways to explain it easier to not native speakers. I also like the different German dialects – what are the differences and where can we find similarities with other languages? E.g. North German and Dutch.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

I didn’t really choose the University of Waterloo. My program predetermined it ;) But I like it. It is a really great area: you have nature, but the biggest city of Canada is really close too!

Why did you choose this program?

I chose this program because it gives you the opportunity to learn more about a foreign culture in the context of your native language.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I've been thinking about it a bit, but didn't make my mind up yet ;) Maybe something with language and identity or language acquisition.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a model or a sales assistant at H&M :D

What is something people wouldn’t guess about you?

I can change a car tire with no problem, as well as one of a bike ;)

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied German and Business at the University of Mannheim, Germany and went on exchange to the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia.

What are your interests in German Studies?

Discourse Analysis, language innovation and multimodal communication.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

The program, the department and the country sounded promising.

Why did you choose this program?

To gain a new perspective on my studies and life.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

No, but it will most certainly involve some of the interests from above.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A pilot.

What is a fun fact about you? 

I sometimes knot bracelets.

Sonja Schaefer was a Master’s student in the joint degree program Intercultural German Studies in the Department of Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo and at the University of Mannheim, Germany. In 2014 she graduated from the University of Mannheim in the interdisciplinary B.A. program Culture & Economy with a major in German Studies and a minor in Business Economics. Her Bachelor thesis examined gender roles and relations in the 1996 drama “Top Dogs” by Urs Widmer. In addition to gender studies, her research interests lie in the fields of cultural and literary studies.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I completed a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Guelph, where I majored in European Studies and minored in German. During the course of my studies in Guelph I also completed two semesters at the Universität Konstanz as an exchange student.

What are your interests in German Studies?

Within the field of German Studies I am particularly interested in looking at German as a minority language and the use of the language outside of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. This generally tends to fall in various areas of sociolinguistics and applied linguistics, and I have a particular interest in topics such as conversational analysis, code-switching, and dialectology.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

The University of Waterloo was known to me as a good school for German Studies.

Why did you choose this program?

I decided on the IcGS programme because it offered me the ability to complete half of the studies here and half in Mannheim, and have the degree jointly awarded. No other such programme or partnership exists between a Canadian and German university.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

Using the interviews collected by the Waterloo Centre for German Studies for the Oral History Project, I am writing my Master’s Thesis on code-switching between German and English used German-speaking migrants and their families in Kitchener-Waterloo, and attempting to see how generational differences in code-switching have played a role in the language shift process in KW’s German community.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Growing up I had many different ideas at different points about what I wanted to do and become. A few that spring to mind were becoming an Egyptologist, a marine biologist, a diplomat, a history teacher, and I later also considered a career in the military.

What is a fun fact about you?

I’ve latch-hooked a few rugs.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I've been in German studies and media and communication studies at the University of Mannheim for my Bachelor program.

What are your interests in German Studies?

Especially interesting for me are identity, autobiography and memory studies as well as inter- and transculturality.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

I chose the University of Waterloo because it is an excellent one; the German department encourages grad students; Waterloo is a nice student city and well located.

Why did you choose this program?

The great chance of this program is to receive a joint degree and to get to know a new country, two universities, many new people, another culture and to practice another language.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I'm currently working on my Masters thesis about identity negotiation in Margaret Atwood's "Cat's Eye" and Felicitas Hoppes "Hoppe".

What is a fun-fact about you?

I've been named after two singers, but nobody would want me to sing on a stage - my last name basically means "cat" (without the "r" at the end) and I really love these animals!

Isabelle Eberz was a Master’s student of the joint degree program Intercultural German Studies at the University of Mannheim and the University of Waterloo. In 2014, she graduated from the University of Trier with a Bachelor of Arts in German and Politics. Additionally, she got a supplementary degree in German as Foreign Language. In her BA thesis, she analyzed the role of the hosts in the chancellor’s debate in 2013. Her main fields of interest are conversational research, (intercultural) communication and political language.

Jeff Lapalme was a Master's student of the Intercultural German Studies Joint MA Program. His main interests were Applied and Socio-linguistics. He researched how individuals construct assumptions of identity through text, with a primary focus on online communities.

Lisa Huehner was a Master's student in the joint degree programm Intercultural German Studies in the Department of Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo and at the University of Mannheim, Germany. In 2014 she graduated from the University of Kassel with a Bachelor of Arts in German and English Studies. Her main research interests are medieval, literary and cultural studies focussing on narratology, intercultural communications and anthropological and psychological issues in literature.

Lisa Schmidt was a Master’s student in the joint degree program Intercultural German Studies in the Department of Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo and at the University of Mannheim, Germany. In 2014 she graduated from the University of Siegen with a Bachelor of Arts in Literary, Cultural and Media Studies in German and English and Social Sciences in her minor. Her Bachelor thesis analysed and compared culture and cultural critique by Thomas Mann and the sociologists of the Frankfurt School. Her research interests lie in literary and cultural studies, in particular sociocultural and anthropological phenomena in literature, relations of philosophy, literature and politics, national literary canons as well as aesthetics of the high and pop culture.

My name is Melanie Weiss (fun fact: Melanie means ‚black‘ and Weiss means ‚white‘), I am (at the time of writing) 29 years old and just started the Intercultural German Studies at the University of Mannheim. I grew up in a small village called Pfullingen in the very south of Germany but went to the northern city of Hamburg for my BA in German Language and Literature, since in my opinion Hamburg is one of the country’s most beautiful cities. My area of interest during my studies has been focused on languages, especially their grammar, varieties and development. That is why I chose African Languages and Cultures as my minor subject and wrote about a particular phenomenon occurring in the Swabian dialect of German in my BA thesis. Besides my studies at the university I am very interested in sports. During my time in Canada, I hope to continue bouldering, hiking and doing all of the other outdoor activities that are be easily accessible in a country with astonishing mountains.

Currently, Misty is working in the Waterloo Centre for German Studies!

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

After receiving a B.A in German Studies from Trent University and a certificate in teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) from George Brown College, I taught ESL and German for extended periods in China, Germany, and Canada.

What are your interests in German Studies?

My fields of interest are environmental studies and second language teaching. As part of my MA program I have taken courses in Animal Studies, Ethics and Climate Change Fiction.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

I chose Waterloo because of the IcGS program and the opportunity to travel to Germany.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

I plan to write my thesis on Sven Böttcher’s Prophezeiung.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

The usual firefighter or veterinarian.

What is a fun fact about you?

I never wear matching socks…

Taylor Antoniazzi was a Master’s student in the Intercultural German Studies program in the Department of Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo. She completed her BA at the University of Victoria and graduated with a History Major and Germanic Studies Honours degree. Her BA thesis examined the role of the female vampire slayer in F.W. Murnau’s classic horror film Nosferatu: Eine Symphonie des Grauens and Joss Whedon’s TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer. In addition to cultural studies, she is interested in applied linguistics with a specific emphasis on computer-assisted language learning.

Ina Bendig was a Master's student in the Department of Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo. She was one of the students taking part in the joint degree program "Intercultural German Studies" between the University of Waterloo and University of Mannheim, Germany. In 2012, she graduated from the Heinrich-Heine-University of Düsseldorf with a Bachelor of Arts in English and German Studies. In her BA thesis she focussed on language acquisition and bilingualism. She is interested in language and culture studies, as well as in identity formation. She worked as a Teaching and Research Assistant in the department.

Alexandra Johne began the Joint Degree Master’s Program in Intercultural German Studies at the University of Mannheim and the University of Waterloo in the fall of 2011. She studied in the Department of Germanic and Slavic Studies in Waterloo from 2011-2012 and finished her Master’s program in Mannheim. Her MA thesis was about Thomas Brussig’s Wendeliteratur and the construction of identity within it. While she was at the University of Waterloo she worked in the library and had a Teaching Assistantship in the Fine Arts Department.

Anna Kristin Burkert was a student in the Joint Degree Master's Program Intercultural German Studies of the University of Waterloo, Canada, and Universität Mannheim, Germany.

She started her Master in fall 2012. She graduated from the Technical University of Dortmund in the bilingual B.A. program Applied Literary and Cultural Studies. Her B.A. thesis dealt with the representation of urban space in George Orwell´s Nineteen Eighty-Four. While studying at the University of Waterloo, she worked as a TA at the department. Her interests lie mostly in literary and cultural studies.

Hannah Oestreich was a student in the M.A. program Intercultural German Studies in the Department of Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo and at the University of Mannheim, Germany. The program included one year each in Mannheim and in Waterloo, the latter lasted from January to December 2012. Her M.A. thesis researched the understanding of German proverbs by German-speaking residents of Kitchener-Waterloo. For this purpose, she undertook a study with questionnaires in the community. Her research interests are mainly in linguistics and education. She was a TA for online language courses, taught German as a private tutor and participated in the course “Fundamentals of University Teaching”.

Jennifer Redler graduated from the joint-MA program in Intercultural German Studies in 2014. Her MA thesis was entitled "Unrechtsstaat or 'Normal' State? Authenticity and the Portrayal of the German Democratic Republic on Film” and dealt with opposing versions of East German history as presented on film.

She went on to pursue a PhD in History at the University of Waterloo. For her dissertation research, she planned to do a comparative study of the different ways in which East Germany has been memorialized in museums and monuments in present-day Germany. The interdisciplinary and intercultural perspective she received through her MA coursework in German culture, literature, media studies and applied linguistics in both Waterloo and Mannheim provided her with the foundations for her current research, and it was through the experience of several particularly engaging seminars at the Universität Mannheim during 2013 that she ultimately decided to pursue PhD studies.

Judith Linneweber was a Master's student in the Department of Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo. She was one of the students taking part in the joint degree program "Intercultural German Studies" between Waterloo and Mannheim, Germany. In 2012, she graduated from the University of Siegen with an interdisciplinary BA in Language and Communication, focusing on English and Social Science. Her BA thesis analyzed the different functions of Anglicism in dubbed and original German series. Her research centres around topics in applied linguistics, with current focus on intercultural communication as well as second language acquisition. Judith worked in the Department as a research assistant for conversation analysis.

Julia Roitsch was a Master's student in the Department of Germanic and Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo. She was one of the students taking part in the joint degree program "Intercultural German Studies" between Waterloo and Mannheim, Germany. In 2012, she graduated from the University of Siegen with an interdisciplinary BA in Literature, Culture and Media Studies, focusing on English and French. Her BA thesis analyzed identity constructions at non-places opposed to sites of memory. She is most interested in literary and cultural studies. She worked as a Teaching Assistant in the department.

Katharina Leuner was an Intercultural German Studies Master's student at the University of Waterloo and the University of Mannheim, Germany. Her research centred around topics in applied linguistics, with a current focus on the application of corpus methods for language pedagogy. Additional areas of interest include diachronic linguistics, cultural anthropology, and semiotics. Katharina worked in the Department as a research assistant for conversation analysis.

Pia Hoffmann was a Master’s student in the Department of Germanic and Slavic Studies, participating in the joint degree ‘Intercultural German Studies’ between the University of Waterloo and the University of Mannheim, Germany. In 2012, she received her BA in German and English with a minor in Pedagogy/ Education from the University of Kiel, Germany. Her BA thesis dealt with gender concepts in Theodor Storm’s novelistic late work. Pia’s research interests lie mostly in literary and cultural studies. Pia worked as a Teaching Assistant in the department.

Stefanie Templin was a Master's student in Intercultural German Studies at the University of Waterloo and the University of Mannheim, Germany. In 2012, she graduated from the Freie Universität Berlin in the interdisciplinary programm North American Studies with a focus on Literature, Sociology and Political Science. In her BA thesis, she analyzed the development of Canadian national literature. Stefanie's main research interests are narrative theory, contemporary literature, Canadian culture, and language as a constructor of realities and identities. She worked as research assistant in the Dana Porter Library transcribing and translating documents of the Breithaupt family and co-organized the German Gemütlichkeit, a meeting place for German language students to casually practice talking and learn about German culture.

Antje's major research interest was the construction of space in 'Migrationsliteratur.’ Her BA thesis analyzed the connection between changing space constructions and modification of identity constructions. In the department she presented a paper about Peter Stamm at the Germanic and Slavic conference and worked as a research assistant.

Nicole Knapp was an MA student in the Intercultural German Studies program run jointly by the University of Mannheim and the University of Waterloo. She received her Bachelor degree in German Studies and Literature and Philosophy in Mannheim in 2011. Her research interest lies especially in cultural studies and therefore, her Master’s Thesis discussed how comedies about the GDR help to build and keep up a cultural memory.

Where and what did you study before you came to Germanic and Slavic Studies at University of Waterloo?

I studied Cultural Sciences with a major in German Literature and a minor in Psychology in Magdeburg, Germany.

What are your interests in German Studies?

Contemporary Literature.

Why did you choose University of Waterloo?

Because of the extraordinary joint degree program.

Why did you choose this program?

I went to Canada for the first time in 2016 and loved the country so the program seemed like the perfect fit for me.

Do you already know what you want to write your thesis on?

Not yet.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A horse trainer or a vet.

What is something people wouldn't guess about you?

I cannot cook.