03/2025 Dina Khukhunaishvili

Age: 26  |  Nationality: Georgian

 What are the places and moments that make you feel at home here?

The parks and green spaces in Potsdam, especially Sanssouci Park, make me feel at home. The beauty of Potsdam’s nature brings a sense of familiarity and comfort. Additionally, sharing moments with my new friends and classmates—whether through group discussions or shared laughter—has made Potsdam even more appealing. 

What challenges do you anticipate as you settle into life in Potsdam and begin your studies?

One of the primary challenges I face is being separated from my family and friends in Georgia. Being away from loved ones is never easy, but establishing new connections here has contributed significantly to my sense of comfort and stability. Another challenge is adapting to a new academic culture and mastering German legal terminology. While I feel confident in my German skills, legal language requires additional effort. Adjusting to the rhythm of life here, integrating into the local community, and balancing studies with personal time are also things I am actively working on. 

Tell us about your degree program. How did you get interested in your field of study? Any favorite classes?

I am enrolled in the Magister Legum (LL.M.) program, which is an additional course of study offered by the Faculty of Law at the University of Potsdam. It is designed for graduates who have already completed a law degree or an equivalent program abroad. I’ve been interested in legal issues since I was in school. I often participated in discussions and debates on legal topics, and knew early on that this was the career path I wanted to follow. My primary interests are international law and cybersecurity law. 

Your studies are in German – what about your German skills?

German is not an easy language to learn, but I’ve made great progress, mostly through self-study. It has taken a lot of time and energy, but my motivation to succeed in my studies has kept me going. I’ve reached a level where I can comfortably read, write, and follow lectures in German, though I still find certain aspects challenging. For instance, understanding casual conversations with classmates can sometimes be difficult when they use informal or regional expressions (Umgangssprache). However, I am improving every day, and I enjoy the process of mastering the language. 

What are your expectations for the German education system and your academic experiences in Potsdam?

My expectations for the German education system are centered around its reputation for being rigorous, structured, and innovative. I look forward to engaging with a system that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills. I expect that my academic experience in Potsdam will be enriching due to its well-regarded universities and diverse academic environment. I anticipate an international perspective in my studies, with an emphasis on collaboration and interdisciplinary learning. 

Do you already have plans or ideas for extracurricular involvement or leisure activities in Potsdam?

I plan to join a student club or group, particularly one that supports international students or focuses on legal studies. I also love sports—I played for the national football team in my country—and I’m planning to join a football club here in Potsdam. Playing football will not only keep me active but also help me connect with more people and feel part of the local community. 

What is the most surprising thing about Germany for you?

Although I had learned a lot about German culture before arriving, I was still surprised by some aspects. One of the most unexpected things is the remarkable diversity of the culture—a blend of people and traditions that creates an inclusive atmosphere. Another surprising thing is the cultural emphasis on work-life balance. Sundays, in particular, are very different from what I’m used to; everything is quiet and restful, which creates a unique rhythm to life that I’ve come to appreciate. 

Your future plans: After completing my LL.M., I plan to pursue a Ph.D. at the University of Potsdam. I am deeply passionate about research and aspire to work as a lecturer or researcher within the field of law.  At the same time, I would like to gain practical experience by working part-time with an international company, particularly in the field of corporate or sports law. Since I am also pursuing a master’s degree in Sports Economics, working in the legal department of a sports organization would be an amazing combination of my interests and expertise.