For Nissrine Lamdardar, a final-year MA student in English Studies at the University of Jaén, international education has already taken her across several countries. Originally from Morocco, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Turkey before continuing her studies in Spain.
Through the NEOLAiA Language Assistant Exchange Programme (LAEP), she spent three months at Bielefeld University in Germany, supporting English-medium teaching and learning. In this interview, Nissrine reflects on the practical experience, welcoming people and intercultural connections that made her stay memorable.
Let us all know, what NEOLAiA activity or programme did you participate in?
I participated in the NEOLAiA Language Assistant Exchange Programme (LAEP) at Bielefeld University in Germany. During my three-month stay, I contributed to English-as-a-Medium-of-Instruction (EMI) courses by collaborating with lecturers, designing and facilitating classroom activities, and helping students communicate confidently in English while engaging with course content.
What motivated you to join the programme?
As a Moroccan student who completed my Bachelor’s degree in Turkey and is currently finishing a Master’s degree in Spain, I have always been interested in experiencing different educational systems. The LAEP allowed me to combine my passion for language education with my curiosity about higher education in another European country. I was excited to learn from a new academic environment while contributing my own knowledge and experience.
What were your first impressions of Bielefeld University?
From the very beginning, I felt genuinely welcomed by everyone at Bielefeld University. The staff, lecturers, and students created an open and supportive atmosphere that made it easy to settle in. I was impressed by how international and collaborative the university felt. I immediately sensed that this would be a place where I could both learn and contribute.
What did you learn academically and personally?
Academically, I gained valuable experience supporting EMI courses, collaborating with lecturers from different disciplines, and designing engaging learning activities for university students. The experience strengthened my teaching skills, particularly in adapting activities to diverse classrooms and encouraging active student participation.
Personally, the programme helped me become even more adaptable, confident, and open-minded. Living and working in another country challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and reminded me how much personal growth comes from international experiences.
How did meeting people from different countries influence your experience?
Yes, meeting people from different countries was one of the most rewarding aspects of the programme. I had the opportunity to interact with students, lecturers, and university staff from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. These conversations broadened my perspective and reinforced the importance of intercultural communication, collaboration, and mutual understanding in both education and everyday life.
What was your favourite moment?
The highlight of my experience was the people I met throughout my stay. Everyone I encountered, both at the university and in the city, was incredibly welcoming and kind. I also loved discovering Bielefeld itself. Its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful green spaces, and surrounding nature made it a wonderful place to live and work, adding even more value to the experience.
Has this experience changed your perspective on studying, travelling, volunteering or working internationally?
Absolutely. This experience confirmed my desire to continue pursuing international opportunities throughout my academic and professional career. It showed me that working in different educational systems not only strengthens professional skills but also helps build meaningful connections and develop a broader understanding of the world. It strengthened my belief that international collaboration is one of the most valuable aspects of higher education.
Would you recommend NEOLAiA opportunities to other students? Why?
Without a doubt. NEOLAiA offers more than an international mobility programme; it’s an opportunity to grow academically, professionally, and personally. The LAEP programme allowed me to gain practical teaching experience in an international university, improve my intercultural communication skills, and build lasting connections with people from different backgrounds. I would encourage any student considering a NEOLAiA opportunity to take it. It is an experience that leaves a lasting impact, both professionally and personally.
