TRIPTI RANA// STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE // UNIVERSITY OF GÖTTINGEN
»ENLIGHT is full of different possibilities and there is something for everyone in it.«
Tripti Rana is a master’s student in political science at the University of Göttingen and an active student representative within ENLIGHT. She discovered the network in her first semester and soon became deeply involved in the Student Network, even organising two consecutive conferences. Her journey reflects a strong commitment to international collaboration, inclusivity, and student engagement, shaped by her own experience as an international student and her passion for connecting people across cultures.
Tripti Rana
Where are you from?
TRIPTI: I was born and brought up in New Delhi, India. It has been a long and exciting journey from a small public school in Delhi to my master’s here in Göttingen, Germany. I am currently pursuing in political science with a minor in modern Indian Studies. I really enjoy how research-oriented and flexible my program is in terms of specialization.
How did you find out about ENLIGHT European University?
TRIPTI: I found out about ENLIGHT, right at the beginning of my first semester in Göttingen through the Welcome Event for Internationals. It sparked my curiosity. Ever since I was little, I have really enjoyed programmes additional to classroom learning, for example, German-language camps, dance training sessions, all sorts of exhibitions and competitions that allowed me to interact and befriend students with similar interests. These inter-school, inter-state and sometimes inter-national experiences have shaped me a lot. When I got to know about the partner universities, I was curious about how studying there might be.
Tripti Rana at Student Network Conference in Göttingen (2025)
Tell us about your participation in ENLIGHT
TRIPTI: I have been a part of the Student Network for two academic years now, and I have not only participated in a few events but also organized two consecutive Student Network Conferences. A big part of my role is being in contact with the student representatives from all partner universities and strengthening the student community.
Once myself a lost freshman here, I now welcome new students to my university and inform them about how to gain valuable international experience during their studies.
How would you describe the experience?
TRIPTI: My experience has been enjoyable and enriching, to say the least.
I have gotten to know a lot of young, motivated people from various fields of study. I have been able to participate in discussions about strengthening student engagement in universities, providing platform for student-led initiatives on campus, about building sustainable collaborations, inclusive education, and much more. Each such discussion has empowered me and added new insights into my life.
Don’t panic. ENLIGHT the future
What are the benefits ENLIGHT has brought you?
TRIPTI: Organizing and hosting the 2025 SN Conference has definitely been a highlight of my ENLIGHT journey. Along with numerous creative workshops on the themes of Inclusivity and Sustainability, we also tried to make it as inclusive & sustainable as possible, in practice. Coming with my own set of challenges as a first-generation international student, I have indulged myself in topics of inclusive and accessible education, as much as I can. Having the opportunity to organise this conference and the support of trained professionals at my university, added a lot to this learning experience.
What city did you visit, what was your impression of it?
TRIPTI: Representing ENLIGHT has landed me in Bilbao, Groningen, Bern, Bordeaux, Bratislava and Tartu. Learning from the Bilbao locals, about how the Basque country enjoys special independent status; the captivating architecture of Bordeaux; enjoying the amazing Forum Groningen; the beautiful Christmas markets in Bern and Bratislava, are just a few highlights from these visits.
What do you like to do in your free time?
TRIPTI: Ordinarily, I spend my free time creatively, for instance, crafting and dancing with friends. I have also always been curious about different languages & cultures. An interest so intense, that it has motivated me to hone my German language skills and thankfully now, immerse myself in the culture too. Watching plays, documentaries, dance performances and all sorts of performative arts, fuels my soul.
If you were to recommend ENLIGHT to a colleague, what would you say?
TRIPI: ENLIGHT is full of different possibilities and there is something for everyone in it; you must be patient and look for an opportunity that aligns with you. So, it is best expressed by our new ENLIGHT sticker at University of Göttingen that says, “Don’t panic. ENLIGHT the future”.
Tripti Rana with other students at Student Network Conference in Tartu (2026)
