Lena Mittermüller

What did you study at Saarland University and when was that?

I started my Bachelor's degree programme in German Language and Literature, English Linguistics, Literatures and Cultures, as well as the career-orientation module in 2012. I then went on to do the trinational Master's programme in 'Literary, Cultural and Language History of German-Speaking Regions', which took place not only at Saarland University but also at the Université de Lorraine in Metz and the University of Luxembourg, and is funded by the Franco-German University. After that, I did a jointly supervised binational doctorate at Saarland University and the Université de Lorraine in German Language and Literature as part of the PhD track programme 'Interculturality in Literatures, Media and Organizations', funded by the Franco-German University.

What job did you do after your studies?

After completing my PhD, I started working as the Personal Adviser to the Vice-President for Internationalization and European Relations at Saarland University.

What did you particularly like about your studies at Saarland University?

Apart from being a lovely green leafy campus, what I particularly liked about the Saarland University was the wide range of study programmes and the excellent support in my subjects, as well as the opportunity to seamlessly combine my studies with periods of time abroad – starting with a semester at Hillsdale College in Michigan, USA, which had a major influence on my decision to enrol on the cross-border programme at three universities. As well as giving me insights into different cultures and academic systems, I have also made friends with people all over the world.

How did you make the transition to working life?

While I was still at university, I did internships and part-time jobs which gave me insights into various fields of work. During my PhD, my work in the Alumni Office at Saarland University enabled me to gain in-depth experience in university communications and processes, which enabled a seamless transition from submitting my doctoral thesis to starting my career.

What other alumni services would you like to see?

General alumni events, which it would also be nice have independent of specific academic disciplines.