100 Years of DAAD Alumni: Matthew Labuda

Which DAAD program did you receive support through?

I received a DAAD Undergraduate Scholarship when I was doing my French-German Double Major Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Manitoba and I used it to spend two semesters at the University of Greifswald (Ernst-Moritz-Arndt Universität Greifswald), in northeastern Germany on the Baltic coast.

What comes to mind when you think of your DAAD experience in Germany?

This experience completely changed my life, made me see a whole different life abroad and helped me realize how rewarding it can be to take chances in life and to try new things which are out of your comfort zone.

Thanks to my DAAD experience and the support of the German government, I was able to improve my German immensely, travel around Europe and meet so many new people from all over the world. I had a full immersion experience while at my German university experience and this was exactly what I wanted, and needed, to succeed in my studies.

When you think of your DAAD experience, are there any stories, memories, or reflections that come to mind?

I would need pages and pages to try and share all of the positive emotions, stories and memories I cherish from my time abroad, but most importantly I was able to experience the life of a German student studying in a cozy German university town.

From biking to and from classes in the winter snow to spending evenings with friends at the beach watching the sun set, every day was special.

What impact did this experience have on your career? Your life?

My DAAD experience influenced everything that has come since: While in Greifswald, I met my future wife and made the decision to move to Germany to live and work. These experiences have brought me to Luxembourg where the German language continues to be an important part of my life and my career.

What advice would you give a young scholar thinking of applying to a DAAD program?

I cannot stress how much the DAAD can change your life in such an important and positive way. Anyone who has given even the slightest thought of studying abroad and trying a new way of life must apply for such an unforgettable experience.