LENA TRILSBEEK / STUDENT / UNIVERSITY OF GÖTTINGEN
»»ENLIGHT provides a unique opportunity to engage with other European universities and explore topics beyond your usual curriculum.««
For Lena Trilsbeek, a Master’s student in Political Science at the University of Göttingen, international learning is an essential part of academic growth. Originally from Münster, Germany, Lena has always been curious about how societies function and respond to political challenges. Her studies have taken her from Göttingen to Seoul, Bratislava, and Galway, experiences that broadened her perspective and deepened her understanding of global issues.
Through ENLIGHT, Lena discovered the value of collaboration across borders. Engaging with students and professors from different universities allowed her to explore complex topics from multiple viewpoints, and step beyond the boundaries of her usual curriculum. For her, ENLIGHT is not just an academic programme, it’s an opportunity to connect, reflect, and grow both personally and professionally.
Lena Trilsbeek
Where are you from?
LENA: I was born in Münster, a city in Germany.
Where are you studying, and was this your first choice?
LENA: Currently I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Political Science at the University of Göttingen, which was my top choice. I was drawn to the university because of its strong academic reputation and the opportunities it offers for international collaboration and research.
Have you ever studied abroad?
LENA: Yes! I spent a semester at EWHA Womans University in Seoul, South Korea. That experience was eye-opening, not only academically, but also culturally. Living in a completely different environment pushed me to adapt, learn, and grow in ways I hadn’t expected.
Why did you choose your field of study?
LENA: I have always been fascinated by social and political movements – how societies function and how we address political challenges. Political science allows me to explore these questions, understand the underlying systems, and think critically about solutions.
How did you first hear about ENLIGHT?
LENA: One of my professors mentioned it to me, and later I read more about the available courses in a faculty newsletter. It immediately caught my attention because it combined international collaboration with a chance to explore topics outside my usual curriculum.
Have you taken part in any ENLIGHT courses?
LENA: Yes, I participated in two ENLIGHT courses, one at Comenius University Bratislava and another at the University of Galway. It was a unique experience to engage with students from across Europe and learn from professors representing different universities. I especially appreciated the interdisciplinary approach, which allowed us to look at complex topics from multiple perspectives. The courses challenged me to think critically, engage in lively discussions, and learn in ways that went beyond traditional lectures.
How would you describe your overall experience?
LENA: Overall, it was incredibly positive. I got to meet people from diverse backgrounds, which enriched every discussion. The courses themselves helped me gain knowledge in areas not typically included in my standard curriculum. Beyond the academic side, exploring the campuses and cities added a cultural and social dimension that made the experience unforgettable. I really enjoyed connecting with people both inside and outside the classroom.
What benefits did ENLIGHT bring you?
LENA: ENLIGHT pushed me out of my comfort zone, helping me grow both personally and academically. I learned to navigate different learning environments, adapt to new teaching styles, and collaborate with students who have very different perspectives from my own. It was challenging at times, but those challenges made the experience all the more rewarding.
ENLIGHT pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow – academically, personally, and culturally.
What motivated you to participate?
LENA: I wanted to challenge myself and broaden my horizons. My degree program in Germany is taught in German, so I also welcomed the chance to discuss political and social topics in English, gaining a more international perspective on issues that are important in my field.
What was your biggest takeaway from ENLIGHT?
LENA: The biggest takeaway for me was learning from the diversity of perspectives, not only from professors with different teaching approaches, but also from fellow students from across Europe. Each discussion offered new insights and encouraged me to think in ways I hadn’t before. I also valued the chance to dive deeply into specific topics in a short period of time, which made the learning experience intense but extremely rewarding.
How would you describe ENLIGHT in two sentences?
LENA: ENLIGHT provides a unique opportunity to engage with other European universities and explore topics beyond your usual curriculum. It encourages critical thinking, reflection, and personal growth by exposing you to diverse ideas and perspectives.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
LENA: In my free time, I enjoy staying active through running and swimming, and I also like expressing myself creatively. Balancing academic work with hobbies like these helps me stay energised and focused.
If you were to recommend ENLIGHT to a fellow student, what would you say?
LENA: I would say: take advantage of this unique opportunity to broaden your perspective – academically, socially, and personally. It’s a chance to grow, connect with people across Europe, and challenge yourself in ways that you won’t get anywhere else. Use this unique opportunity to broaden your horizon!
Lena Trilsbeek attending Blended Intensive Programme: Fake News in 2024 at Comenius University Bratislava