News-Detail

From 1 November 2025, the Preparatory College (Landesstudienkolleg) of Anhalt University of Applied Sciences in Köthen will have a new director: Dr. Oksana Vasylenko. The education expert brings with her international experience, pedagogical understanding and great personal motivation. In this interview, she explains what the Studienkolleg does, how integration can succeed and what she hopes for the future.

Dr. Vasylenko, you will take over as Director of the Preparatory College (Landesstudienkolleg) in November. What are you looking forward to in this role?

I am looking forward to shaping the future of the Preparatory College (Landesstudienkolleg) together with a dedicated team. For me, it is a place where young people from different parts of the world start their academic journey in Germany. This task means not only organization and teaching, but above all responsibility. I see the Studienkolleg as a space where education, orientation and integration come together. I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute and further develop my experience from international projects and university cooperation.

What exactly does the Preparatory College (Landesstudienkolleg) offer international students?

We currently have over 300 students from more than 25 countries. They come with one goal: to study in Germany. We prepare them linguistically, professionally and personally. There are various courses: the T-course for technical degree programs, the W-course for Economics, the G-course for humanities. There are also intensive language courses and preparation for the German language test for university entrance. Some students have already completed their studies, others are just starting out. They all have different biographies and expectations, but they all have one thing in common: they need a reliable, supportive learning environment. And that is exactly what we try to provide.

You say that integration is a central goal. How do you achieve this in such a short time?

Our students are often only with us for one or two semesters. That's not much time for integration, but we use this time intensively. For us, language of instruction, specialist knowledge and personal development belong together. That's why we not only offer lessons, but also targeted support. We organize cultural events, work together with the university's departments and involve our students in practical projects. Many of them are alone in Germany. They need security, structure and the feeling of being welcome. My wish is that they feel seen. Because when you feel that someone believes in you, you can surpass yourself.

What role does Köthen play in this process?

Köthen is a small town, but with great potential, lots of opportunities and a large university. That is an advantage. Our students find a manageable framework here in which they can find their bearings and settle in. Many of them quickly make friends, whether at the university or in the city. My family and I have also found a home here. My children go to grammar school here. I see every day what is possible when people approach each other openly. I want to pass on this experience.

What will you take with you from your previous work into your new role?

I've been working at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences since 2019 and have coordinated international projects, including on the digitalization of teaching under wartime conditions. We worked together with universities from Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and North Macedonia. In these projects, I saw what education can achieve if you take people seriously, support them individually and break new ground together. I also bring this attitude to the Studienkolleg. It is important to me that we communicate openly, think flexibly and learn together - from the students, from each other and with a view to the future.

Where would you like to see the Preparatory College (Landesstudienkolleg) in five years' time?

I would like it to be an even more strongly networked, internationally visible center. We don't just want to prepare students for their studies, but also for life in a diverse society. This requires good teaching, a supportive environment and openness. When our graduates say: "The Studienkolleg was my springboard to successful studies and a new life", then we have achieved our goal.

Ms. Vasylenko, thank you very much for the interview.