Häfler scholarship holder: "For me, studying at home means combining the old with the new"

Medea, you started your studies in Berlin. What brought you back to Lake Constance?

Metzinger: I studied business law in Berlin for two semesters, but the city just wasn't my cup of tea: too big, too loud, too anonymous. A friend of mine was already studying at ZU and when I visited him a few times, I was immediately impressed: by the cozy atmosphere, the open people and the palpable sense of solidarity. So I applied for CME, Corporate Management & Economics.

Being back here in the south of Baden-Württemberg feels right. I like the small, local things and of course the beautiful lake. After the hustle and bustle of the big city in Berlin, I appreciate it all much more. I grew up in Eriskirch and went to Droste-Hülshoff School in Friedrichshafen. My whole childhood is connected to this region, and studying here now feels great.

How did you find out about the Häfler Scholarship and why did you apply?

Metzinger: A friend told me about the opportunity. I immediately liked the idea: a scholarship that rewards commitment in the region. At school, I was the spokesperson for the fair trade club, through which we carried out sustainable projects with the Weltladen Friedrichshafen, for example at the goods exchange fair. My father also set up an aid project in Nepal, which I help with. So my interest in charitable work has been running through my life for a long time.

And how did the selection process work for you?

Metzinger: I put a lot of work into my application. We had to fill out a form with so-called "unanswerable questions" and write an application text. I then spoke about this in two selection interviews with a professor, a research assistant and a student. Despite the excitement, it was a very relaxed atmosphere. When I was accepted a few days later, I was over the moon. The effort had really been worth it.

What has the scholarship changed for you?

Metzinger: A lot, not just financially. Of course it makes things easier, because I didn't want my parents to bear all the costs. But even more important is the trust that the university places in you. I don't see it as a matter of course, but as a responsibility: to give something back to ZU, to get involved, to maintain my average. For example, I help out at the Pioneers Wanted Days and collect engagement points. So the scholarship is not just support, but also motivation: to do my best for myself and for Zeppelin University.

You made the move from a large university to a very personal one. How do you experience ZU?

Metzinger : I find it incredibly open. In Berlin, a lot of things were anonymous, but here people know each other. I immediately noticed that the students want to make a difference. The projects outside the seminars are so much fun and you learn responsibility and teamwork in a completely different way. For example, I immediately joined the ZUtaten initiative in the events team. What I also really appreciate: If you need help here, someone is there straight away. I experienced that when I had my courses from Berlin recognized: Everything was straightforward and with kind support.

I'm glad to hear that. When did you get the feeling that I am now really part of this community?

Metzinger : Right in Freshers' Week, at the sports day at the See Campus. Everyone cheered each other on, regardless of whether we won or lost. Afterwards, we ended the evening on the beach watching the sunset: Some went stand-up paddle boarding in the lake, others danced or chatted away laughing. I thought: Wow, that's the ZU feeling. So much warmth and solidarity all at once was really special.

As a Häfler scholarship holder, you are also an ambassador for Zeppelin University. How do you understand this role?

Metzinger: I visit my old school and present the university there. I want to show that ZU is a place for everyone who wants to make a difference. Many people don't even know that this scholarship exists and that financial reasons don't have to be an obstacle. I plan to develop a small guide for high school graduates. I know the differences between state and private universities from my own experience and I am really convinced of Zeppelin University. I want to take away others' fear of the word private .

I would also like to make it clear that you are very welcome here as a Häfler. No matter where you come from, we stick together. Formats such as the Club of International Politics or the Lake Constance Youth Conference show how closely ZU and the region are actually connected.

What are you taking away from your time here so far and where are you heading after your studies?

Metzinger: I'm only in my first semester, of course, but the university is already showing me how much you can achieve when you believe in ideas together. I can well imagine doing my Master's here and staying in my region. But maybe I'll be drawn out again at some point. Right now, Friedrichshafen just feels right.

What does studying at home mean to you?

Metzinger: For me, it means combining the old with the new. Staying at home and still daring to try something new.

One last question for you: Would you come home again for Zeppelin Uni?

Metzinger: Definitely. No matter how many application texts I would have to write. I can only recommend our ZU!