Student Story Interview – Amelie Josten
What is your name?
My name is Amelie Josten :)
How old are you?
I’m 19 years old.
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Germany but my mother is Peruvian and my father is mixed German and Sinhalese (Sri Lanka). I identify mostly with German and Peruvian Culture, as I grew up speaking Spanish and German at home and have spent some time in both countries.
What year are you in?
I’m in First Year right now! – Still enjoying the Sun of Lisbon…
What bachelor’s program are you studying?
I’m studying Forward’s Bachelor’s+ Program, the LSE Bachelor’s in Politics and International Relations in combination with Forward’s Leadership programme.
Outside of Forward College, what do you love to do in your free time?
I’m a dancer so I love to spend time taking dance classes or dancing with my friends. I always try to explore all kinds of different dance styles like jazz funk, contemporary, salsa, and more! I also love to cook and bake or read to wind down from busy student life, or meeting up with my friends to explore Lisbon.
Why did you choose to join Forward College?
I always knew that I wanted to travel while studying but I always thought this would most likely consist of a Year Abroad at most, so when I found out about the opportunity of studying in three countries I was immediately hooked. I had made my decision to study International Relations beforehand as well and finding Forward’s program was like puzzle pieces falling together.
What were you most excited (or nervous) about before starting your first year?
I was very excited about getting to discover Lisbon in a completely different context and meeting all these new people with different backgrounds. I was more nervous about the workload and what Uni Life would be like, but my excitement did overweigh the nervousness.
What has been your favorite memory in Lisbon so far?
During one of the first weeks in Lisbon some of us decided to go to Caparica beach and we spent the day there. It was the first “core memory” of many that I had with my friends. We all didn’t fully know each other yet so this was a great moment of getting to know each other, fooling around and sharing laughter.
How did you feel on your first day?
Sooo nervous but also very excited!!
Was there a specific moment when you felt at home in this new country?
It was while grocery shopping alone and then cooking for myself. A mundane, everyday thing that felt so natural regardless of the different language on the packaging.
What were your first impressions of your cohort?
I remember thinking that these people that I hadn’t met before were going to bring so many new friendships and experiences and that I was excited to start this journey of getting to know everyone. I also was impressed by everyone’s cultural background(s)!
What advice would you give to future applicants?
It is all going to be alright! I remember being very nervous and excited but these are feelings that show that you really care about this experience and that is what is going to make it so wonderful.
When it comes to advice for applications and the admissions process – Forward loves extracurricular activities and when it comes to the interview just be yourself :)
