Annemarie Wittig is studying Applied Computer Science - Digital Media and Game Development at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences. In this interview, she talks about the advantages of a small degree program, her experiences with math in computer science studies and her place of study, Köthen.
What is your degree course about?
My degree program is very interdisciplinary with the opportunity to set your own focus. We students are trained as broadly as possible so that we are free to take our next steps later on. In addition to a very high practical component in the area of programming and modeling, the media and creative aspect is not neglected. Personally, I initially chose a lot of modules from the field of computer science, which are in the area of projects with industry partners and linked data. For the next semester, however, I opted for something completely different: Digital photography. Simply out of personal interest, to try something different.
What should you bring to the degree program?
First of all, you need motivation. Personally, I would say that you don't need to have a lot of prior knowledge or be the biggest ace in math - but hating math completely definitely doesn't work either. Until I started my degree, I never expected to study computer science. I had to do a lot of catching up and invest a lot of energy at the beginning, but I think it's worth it. In general, I would emphasize that it's not exactly an easy degree program: putting your feet up and sitting back is not an option here. However, once you have overcome the initial hurdles, you can enjoy many things and really get a taste of many areas, which is definitely worth it in my opinion.
Why did you choose Anhalt University of Applied Sciences?
I had already saved it in the back of my mind because I found the degree program very interesting: good job opportunities and still be able to be creative? Sounded great. The atmosphere at the university was a decisive factor in my decision. The degree programs and courses are relatively small, which allows for very close supervision, where you can develop or compensate for your own strengths and weaknesses in a good way. The professors here know the majority of their students and they also know each other - this simply makes for a relaxed working atmosphere. In addition, we often have opportunities for employment at the university and with the professors. For example, I've already helped in the student advisory service and with the correction of an app, was a tutor and currently have a job in research.
Digital media sounds like a special interest. How did you get into it?
I'm a very creative person by nature. In my free time, everything revolves around art and crafts, which is why I would have liked to study something like this. However, you have to be realistic here: The job prospects are not ideal. Professions that only focus on media are often considered overcrowded and difficult to gain a foothold in. Digital media in connection with computer science seemed like a good compromise to me - a huge professional field, good opportunities and still a creative aspect that I didn't want to miss out on.
What is social life like in Köthen?
To be completely honest, Köthen is anything but the hotspot of the world. But before Corona, it was pleasant to gain a foothold here on a social level. The students make an effort to plan lots of events and because everything is so small, everyone kind of knows everyone and meeting new people is easy. As external people also come to such events, the circle of acquaintances quickly consists of very different personalities. There are not only big "student parties", but also movie, games and barbecue evenings. I think there's something for everyone. And once you've settled in, there's always something to do thanks to the park, bar, student club and cinema. But even without all the events, the project work and small courses are a good way to integrate into the student body.
Dear Annemarie, thank you very much for the interview!
