Vivian Maier

© Aileen Maier

What is your name?
Vivian Maier

Where is your main place of work or where are you based?
All over the world

What did you study?
I did my Bachelor's degree in Comparative Linguistics, Literary Studies and Translation (VSLT) and my Master's degree in Translation Science

What do you do professionally today?
I am a freelance engineer and technical draughtswoman.

Why did you study at Saarland University?
It was really important to me to study in Saarland. At that time in my life, I was particularly attached to my homeland.

What would you have liked to have known when you started your degree?
That there are far more opportunities and degree programmes at Saarland University than I had realized.

If you were to go back to university today, what would you do differently?
I would find out as much as possible about literally every single degree programme in advance and take advantage of all the additional continuing education and training opportunities at Saarland University that interest me.

What has your career path been like? How did you find your first job?
After finishing my Master's degree at Saarland University, I did a cooperative study programme in building services engineering. I then worked for three years as a project management engineer at the company where I did my study programme. I found the job advert on an online job portal.

What would you have liked to have known when you started your career?
All that glitters is not gold. Just because you think you can earn a lot of money in a particular industry, doesn't mean you'll enjoy it. I should have become a translator after graduating from Saarland University instead of an engineer.

What is your best memory of your time as a student at Saarland University?
Studying in the sunshine on the lawn in summer.

What advice would you like to give today’s students?
Enjoy learning and study for as long as you can!

I recommend studying at the Saarland University because ….
… the family atmosphere is simply unique.

What alumni services would you like to see?
Reunions for former students of the same or similar subjects.