Maya Geiss

A hashtag that describes you?

#dedicated or #organized—actually, both fit!

What would be a good headline for this interview with you?

“My Insights into Student Life at ZU.”

Please describe yourself in three words.

Organized, helpful, and determined.

When you think back to the beginning of your studies, what expectations did you have of Zeppelin University (ZU)?

On the one hand, I’d heard beforehand that there are very special bonds among students at ZU—that the atmosphere is very close-knit, everyone knows each other, and people support one another. On the other hand, I expected the classes to be small, so that I could really get involved. That was very important to me. I also really wanted the opportunity to get involved in student initiatives. At the start of my studies, I wasn’t sure yet whether I should pursue social pedagogy or business. What I especially loved about ZU was that I could study economics in a very interdisciplinary way and get involved in social initiatives at the university on the side. I’m studying one because it interests me and because I’ll be able to make a living doing it later, and the other is something ZU makes possible for me as well.

Why exactly did you choose ZU?

After graduating from high school, I first went to Tanzania for volunteer work, then completed an apprenticeship as a flight attendant at Lufthansa, and subsequently worked there as a flight attendant. During that time, I started thinking about what my next steps would be. I ended up applying exclusively to ZU. ZU simply isn’t your typical business school; its program offerings are truly unique. Even the application process itself is unique. You don’t apply the traditional way with a resume; instead, you’re asked to answer three questions. I had to engage with certain topics, and that’s exactly what I found so interesting. I’d already read about ZU in the ZEIT magazine “Zeit Campus” and had also attended the “Uni live!” open house and the “Summer Festival.” All these very positive impressions ultimately convinced me to begin my studies at ZU.

Do you have any advice for future students starting their studies at ZU?

I recommend that everyone try everything! You should definitely make the most of your time at ZU and, above all, enjoy student life and find a balance between responsibilities and fun. Every student has the opportunity to change and shape ZU, so take advantage of this unique chance!

You mentioned it earlier: the student organizations. Which ones are you involved in?

During my first and second semesters, I was involved in the “Transcultural Leadership Summit” (Editor’s note: This conference, organized by ZU, brings together representatives from business, culture, and politics to share their experiences leading globally active companies and organizations). There, I served as Head of Events and was primarily responsible for event organization. I was also involved in recruiting participants. Additionally, I helped organize the “Female Founders Night.” (Editor’s note: A student-led platform that brings together people of all genders who are passionate about diverse entrepreneurship. Through its events, it seeks to collaborate with universities and partners across Europe.) Very exciting! Currently, I’m active in the “fem:ability” initiative, an initiative we’ve just founded that is dedicated to female empowerment and raising the profile of inspiring female role models. It’s a topic that has always been close to my heart. I was also involved in the initiative “Rock Your Life! Friedrichshafen e.V.” (Editor’s note: This multi-award-winning social enterprise, through its chapters in over 50 locations, addresses the path dependence prevalent in Germany’s education system and actively advocates for equal opportunity and social mobility.) I served as chair of the board there, a role I held primarily because of my social background. This initiative focuses above all on the valuable mentoring relationships between college students and vocational high school students, often involving... For me, my involvement there was a very special experience, as I was also responsible for coordinating the entire team in my role as chair of the board. I’m also active in the “whyknot e.V.” initiative—Zeppelin University’s interdisciplinary student advisory service. There, we’re currently working on a project focused on ZU’s applicant marketing.

Let’s get back to your degree program. You’ve already mentioned that you have a wide range of interests. Was that also the reason you chose the CME program at ZU?

I chose CME because I’d already gained international experience in Tanzania and as a flight attendant, and this program allows me to combine economic topics with cultural and political ones. At ZU, it’s possible to choose different courses from various fields and combine them. I was also particularly drawn to the international nature of this degree program. I find it particularly helpful that ZU offers a four-year bachelor’s degree program. Especially now, as I’m nearing the end of my studies, I’ve realized how important it is to be able to delve deeply into a specific area rather than just working through the foundational courses. Lectures taught in English with a strong emphasis on discussion, one or more semesters abroad, and an international internship also go a long way toward preparing you for the future professional world, which is typically international and interdisciplinary.

Did the close relationship with professors help you during your studies at ZU?

Of course it helped a lot! When you have a closer relationship with them, it’s easier to ask questions and participate. On the other hand, the fact that you’re challenged in smaller classes and have to speak up also helped me come out of my shell. There’s just no way around it. I think that’s great because it encourages you to participate. That definitely helped me a lot in building my self-confidence!

Could you imagine continuing your career at ZU?

For my master’s degree, I’d like to go to a different university—simply because I want to get to know a different city and a different university. However, that’s less about the master’s programs ZU offers and more because I’ve learned at ZU to always stay curious and try new things. For example, I spent my semester abroad at ZU in the U.S., and I think you don’t truly appreciate what you have until you’re away. If I were to pursue a Ph.D., though, I could very well imagine coming back to ZU.

What was your best experience at ZU?

It’s very hard to pick just one thing. I always loved it when, after a successful event, we could sit down together within the student organizations and reflect on everything we’d accomplished and moved forward as a team. That feeling is incredibly wonderful.

What are your plans for your final year of studies?

Before I start my career, I just want to enjoy my last few months at ZU and be at the university without having to work part-time as a student employee. I’d like to take full advantage of everything ZU has to offer one last time.

Please briefly complete the following sentences. ZU is…

… not just a place for studying, but also for exchange, coming together, and rethinking.

At ZU, you can …

… grow significantly both personally and academically. Especially as I near the end of my studies, I’ve noticed how much ZU has shaped me personally—something I find even more important for my future life than simply being well-prepared academically.

ZU stands for …

… a great deal of initiative on the part of the students.

I’d like to thank ZU for …

… a very educational and varied education that has enabled me to think in entirely new ways, approach things differently, and grow as a person.

And we’d like to thank you for the nice conversation. Thank you very much for your time.

ZU Interview: Elena Francomano