Dagmar Dewald

Why did you choose the Medieval and Early Modern Studies programme?

I love the thinkers of the Middle Ages and the early modern period. My expectation was to take an interdisciplinary look at the entire cultural environment in the Master's programme: Art, literature, music, history.

What did you particularly like about your degree programme?

My expectations of the programme were completely fulfilled. I was able to gain a broad picture of this fascinating era. I really enjoyed the freedom of research, the wide range of subjects on offer and the openness of the lecturers.

What was the most surprising thing about your degree programme?

I was surprised by how many new things you can extract from supposedly well-known, widely researched topics through interdisciplinary work. I find it amazing and wonderful how easy it is to access original printed works from the early modern period, thanks to digitisation. It makes working with sources really fun.

What did you originally want to be and what do you actually do today?

Originally, I wanted to go into association work after my studies, in line with my previous journalistic and political activities. However, I am now actually writing a doctoral thesis, which has resulted from my philosophical and theological approach to research questions from the Master's programme.

What does a typical working day look like for you?

As I have a large family, I mainly work in the mornings and evenings and support my work with a lot of exercise.

How did your studies prepare you for your current job?

In the Master's programme, I completed a number of extensive term papers, which allowed me to delve quite deeply into the respective subject and some of which were accepted by specialist bodies - an excellent introduction to the doctoral thesis.

What advice would you like to give future students?

You should savour the opportunity to spend a lot of time doing things you enjoy and also do a lot of outdoor activities, experience culture and spend time with friends. I would also encourage anyone who is older, like me, to study because it is a great enrichment.