From Montana to Frankfurt

On a hot summer day in August 2025, I found myself setting foot on the campus of Frankfurt School of Finance & Management (FS) for the first time. The air was thick with anticipation as I embarked on a new chapter of my life, returning to school to pursue a master’s degree and transitioning from the United States to Germany for my studies. This campus would be my second home for the next two years.

When I walked through the revolving doors of FS, I was greeted by lofty ceilings, modern architecture, and a bustling atmosphere filled with students from all over the world. After visiting the cafe, I strolled through the campus, visiting the library and some of the lecture halls. I felt a strong sense of excitement and curiosity about my new environment. I paused to take a break on a third-floor terrace overlooking Frankfurt's skyline. In that moment, I realised I had made the right decision to study at FS. I was ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Embracing Student Experience

I quickly found myself immersed in student life at FS. Orientation week was full of activities, from campus tours to social events. These events helped us get to know each other before the academic year began. One highlight was the orientation event for all new master’s students. We had to work together to move a large ball across multiple stations using only a few materials. This activity fostered teamwork and helped us bond with classmates from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Later that evening, I met my colleagues in the Master in Applied Data Science programme. The programme is now called Master of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. We bonded over our shared interests and goals, and I felt a strong sense of camaraderie among us. One unique part of the programme is the variety of students in the cohort. Some come from computer science, like me. Others have backgrounds in business, economics, engineering, or the humanities. Over the course of the evening, I learned about their journeys and what led them to data science. It was inspiring to see the different paths that had brought us together from across the globe.

Transitioning from the US to Germany

I graduated from a small technical university in the United States called Montana Technological University. It is located in the mining town of Butte, Montana. Montana Tech has around 2,000 undergraduate students and focuses on subjects like mining and petroleum engineering. Moving from this small US university to a large international business school in Germany was both exciting and challenging.

I had to adapt to a new academic environment, different teaching styles, and a diverse student body. The cultural differences were also significant. I had to navigate a new country, a new language, new social norms, and German bureaucracy. After living in Germany for a year now, I have come to appreciate its rich culture, history, and opportunities. The transition has been rewarding. It has broadened my horizons and helped me grow both personally and professionally.

Becoming a Teaching Assistant

In addition to being a student, I had the opportunity to become a Teaching Assistant (TA) at FS. Being a TA is not only about grading exams and assignments. It is also about being a mentor and guide for students. A TA helps students understand the course material and offers support when needed.

As a TA for the Bachelor's Machine Learning course, I worked closely with students. I answered their questions, gave feedback on their assignments, and helped them understand difficult concepts. It was rewarding to watch students grow and succeed. The role also deepened my own understanding of the subject. In addition, it helped me build my communication and leadership skills. I had to explain complex ideas clearly and manage the classroom environment.

Looking Back on My First Year

As my first year at FS comes to an end, I am grateful for the experiences I have had. I have made new friends, learned new skills, and grown both personally and professionally. I am excited to see what the next year will bring and to continue my journey of learning and growth.