A Chance to discover many Countries

Anyone who decides to work in research is entering international territory. Findings and innovations can only be created if scientists are well networked worldwide and across disciplines. Research stays in different countries are therefore just as relevant as participation in conferences. Visiting scientists from all over the world regularly work at the three Max Planck Institutes in Potsdam-Golm and contribute their expertise to research. Some of them travel halfway around the world to do so.

For many, the structures and everyday life are still very unfamiliar, especially if they come to Potsdam from completely different countries. When looking for an apartment, a doctor or if official questions need to be clarified and the language is unfamiliar, the start is often difficult. This can be exhausting, especially if the new job at the institute starts at the same time. In addition, family and friends at home cannot provide advice and support.

Arrive safely at the Potsdam Science Park

To ensure that the international members of the scientific society are well received in the Science Park, the Golm site management has initiated its own Welcome Service and a language school. The team helps spouses, children and employers organize life in the new place, especially in the first three months. In bank accounts and insurance, in the search for daycare places, for example in the bilingual Fröbel kindergarten, with shopping tips for everyday necessities or in private crises. Dr. Vidya Z. from India remembers the complicated search for accommodation and the conclusion of contracts with landlords: “Life is much easier when there is someone there to help you arrive well. The service has built a bridge for me. After a while, you have experience yourself and get along with it,” she says.

The integrated language school offers German and English courses. Members of the Science Park are prepared here in small groups for recognized exams, everyday exchange, negotiations, business processes and presentations in the new language on up to two evenings a week. The lesson times can also be individually adapted to your own working hours if necessary.

Friendships and support in the International Women’s Group

The women of the International Women’s Group meet regularly at lunchtime. When asked about their impressions, they report on the special significance of these meetings. “The support in the search for doctors was very valuable,” says Sepide from Iran, “and I quickly made good friends.” Cynthia from the USA also shares these experiences: “There is great support here from women who are in the same situation as you are,” she reports, “It was also nice to watch how the Potsdam children explain things to our international children and help them.” Marta from Poland also advises others to join: “Especially if you are only in one place for a short time, the group helps you not to feel strange, isolated or lonely.” Urska from Slovenia has been strengthened by the cohesion. At first, she had mainly contact with her husband’s mostly male colleagues at the institute. “When I met the women of the Women’s Group, it was immediately clear to me that I would get advice and support if I needed medical help or if I was homesick and just needed someone to talk to. Here, everyone is a little lost in the same way at the beginning. That’s why we support each other and feel a special cohesion,” she says, “I can’t wait for the next meeting.”

download PNN special supplement to the Potsdam Science Park from 21.09.2019 here

 

Picture: Martin Jehnichen

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