Immersing in the ‘German Way of Life’Zimkitha Bavuma from South Africa is an exchange student at Aalen University of Applied Sciences.
Safari Excursions in South Africa are famous for offering extraordinary opportunities to observe the “Big Five” (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, and buffalo) in their natural habitat—and giraffes, of course. Photo: private
Anyone strolling across the Aalen University campus will hear snippets of many different languages – Georgian, English, Spanish, Arabic, or Nepali, to name just a few. Students from all over the world bring the campus to life, creating a truly international atmosphere. With partnerships at more than 130 universities worldwide, Aalen University maintains strong global connections. In this series, we introduce some of the inspiring students from our partner institutions who have chosen to continue their academic journey in Aalen – this time featuring Zimkitha Bavuma from South Africa.
Many “First Times”
The first time in Germany, the first time as an exchange student, the first time living in a student residence: “The past few weeks have been full of many ‘firsts’ for me,” says Zimkitha Bavuma with a warm laugh. The South African came to Aalen University of Applied Sciences this spring for a semester abroad. At her “home university,” the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) in Cape Town, Bavuma completed her Master’s in Tourism and Hotel Management and is currently pursuing a PhD in Business Administration. At the same time, she works as a research associate and teaches Tourism and Event Management at CPUT. “I really wanted to experience being an international student, so I applied on a whim for the Baden-Württemberg Scholarship—and it worked! I am very grateful for that,” the young woman beams.
Goal: Becoming a Professor
At Aalen University, she is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Marketing and Artificial Intelligence. “Germany has an excellent education system, and the practical focus at universities is outstanding,” says Bavuma. “I came to Germany to learn something new, including the different teaching standards. As a lecturer, this is very exciting for me.”
Her long-term goal is to become a professor. “It is incredibly fulfilling to motivate students and support them on their academic journey and in the early stages of their professional careers. Conversations with them, particularly from a research perspective, are fascinating and broaden my horizons,” she says, adding with a grin: “I enjoy stepping into other people’s minds.”
Enjoying Student Life
But now, during her semester abroad, the Cape Town native can fully enjoy student life. “The transition was smooth. Even before I arrived, I was in contact with my buddy, Sarah, who introduced me a bit to the ‘German Way of Life.’ That was a tremendous help. And she even picked me up from the train station!” Bavuma says cheerfully.
In cooperation with the non-profit organization International Society Aalen (ISA), Aalen University’s “Buddy Program” provides support and guidance for international newcomers. The “buddies” are experienced students who volunteer to help exchange students integrate.
Bavuma also appreciates the many activities offered at the university. She enjoys volunteering at the International Center, strolling through the city market, or spending her free time in local cafés. “It’s fun to connect with the people of Aalen—and practice a bit of German at the same time,” says the friendly young woman, whose laughter is highly infectious.
On a Journey of Discovery
During the orientation weeks at the beginning of the summer semester, the master’s student made friends with whom she explored German—and European—cities. “We’ve already been to Ulm, Heidelberg, Nuremberg, Schwäbisch Hall, Stuttgart, Munich, and Frankfurt. I’ve also taken solo trips to Paris, Prague, and Rome,” Bavuma recounts enthusiastically.
Of course, they also frequently explore Aalen and the Ostalb region. “It’s great for hiking or taking long walks. The nature is beautiful; I find it very calming here.”
As a lover of pasta in all its forms, she finds the Swabian specialty “Spätzle with sauce” particularly delicious. “Before I came here, I actually Googled the food,” Bavuma admits with a playful smile—adding that it was a bit of a cultural shock at first.
From the Xhosa People
Zimkitha Bavuma hails from Cape Town, a bustling metropolis of 4.7 million. The South African port city, nestled between the majestic Table Mountain and Table Bay with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural diversity. “People from all nine South African provinces and various communities live here,” Bavuma explains. She belongs to the Xhosa people—one of South Africa’s oldest ethnic groups alongside the Zulu. Their language, known for its distinctive click sounds, is one of the country’s eleven official languages.
“Cape Town is fantastic—a colorful mix that offers many different perspectives—and with its location between the sea and mountains, it’s simply one of the most amazing cities in the world,” the young woman enthuses. Though she misses her hometown and family, Bavuma would love to stay in Germany longer than until the end of August. “It already feels a bit like home here. Who knows—maybe I’ll return as a postdoctoral researcher?”