Sangita Paul 2021-2022
I am thankful to Weiss-Livnat International Holocaust Program and Erasmus + Exchange Program of the University of Haifa to approve my application for the Erasmus program (the year 2021-2022). I got the opportunity to study at the University of Potsdam. It is a lifetime opportunity to be enrolled in a German university. I have just completed the semester and I would say it was a productive semester. The courses at Potsdam are diverse. I took some exciting courses that deal with Jewish history in Eastern Europe and the United States. I am enriched with new ideas, information, and history by studying the various courses. I also studied the German language course and completed the A2 level. The professors are friendly. They know their subjects very well. The discussion and interaction in the classes are engaging. It helps me to sharpen my knowledge and directs me toward my plan.
Studying at a German university is a big opportunity to be acquainted with German culture, people, history, geography, food and language. As a student of Holocaust Studies, I visited Wannsee House, Sachsenhausen memorial, Track 17 memorial at Grünewald station and historical museums in Berlin. I keenly observed the research and exhibition section, and digital archives and tried to understand the job of a museum curator.
Visiting the city of Dresden is one of the most memorable experiences for me. The city is rebuilt after the horrific bombing at the end of World War II. If one observes, it can be noticed the joined broken pieces, especially in the Zwinger Palace.
I am grateful to the Weiss-Livnat International Holocaust Program and the international office at the University of Haifa for giving me this wonderful opportunity.
