HHL Study Experience – Insights from the Latin American Community

Alexander from Venezuela, Felipe from Colombia, Daniel from Chile – they are all students and graduates of our Master in Management programs. We are exploring their journeys, challenges, and successes in adapting to life in Leipzig and building their futures in Germany.

From South America to Germany: Charting New Adventures

For many students from Latin America, the journey to HHL is about more than earning a degree—it’s about stepping into a world of opportunities, challenges, and personal transformation. The decision to leave their home countries and immerse themselves in the German culture is driven by the promise of a world-class education and the chance to thrive in an international environment. Students are drawn to HHL for its strong reputation in management, finance, and entrepreneurship, as well as its focus on practical learning.

Leipzig, with its central location, dynamic environment and welcoming community, also plays a key role in the decision-making process. The city provided an ideal backdrop for academic and personal growth and is the perfect place for an exeptional study experience.

The Power of Networking: Building Bridges Across Cultures

Networking is not just a buzzword at HHL—it’s a lifeline for many students embarking on this journey. With peers from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, Alexander, Felipe and Daniel quickly realize the value of building connections that go beyond the classroom. They stress the importance of starting early, and leveraging every opportunity to interact with professors, alumni, and classmates during their study experience. Our culture actively fosters such interactions, organizing frequent events where students can engage with industry leaders and alumni. This focus on collaboration opens doors to internships, job opportunities, and lifelong friendships.

Academic Excellence Meets Practical Learning

At HHL, students are immersed in a curriculum that bridges the gap between theory and practice. The Master in Management programs are designed to challenge conventional learning methods, pushing students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Business cases, interactive projects, and hands-on assignments are integral to the experience, preparing students to excel in dynamic professional environments. The hands-on methodology also attracts companies, ensuring students are job-ready by the time they graduate. This emphasis on practical learning is a cornerstone of our teaching philosophy at HHL.

Embracing German Culture: Overcoming Challenges

Moving to Germany comes with its own set of challenges, particularly for students from Latin America, where the cultural norms are vastly different. The adjustment to Germany’s highly structured systems, emphasis on punctuality, and bureaucratic processes can be overwhelming initially. Alexander, Felipe and Daniel shared stories of their struggles and eventual successes in navigating this new environment. Despite initial obstacles, all 3 find joy in exploring local culture, attending festivals, and enjoying Leipzig’s picturesque parks and lakes. Learning the German language, although challenging, becomes an enriching part of their journey.

Advice for Future Candidates: Prepare, Network, Thrive

For future candidates considering HHL, Alexander, Felipe and Daniel emphasize preparation and adaptability. They recommend learning basic German before arriving, as it eases the transition and opens doors to richer experiences.

Networking remains a cornerstone of success at HHL, and all 3 encourage newcomers to take every chance to connect with peers, professors, and professionals during their study experience. As Daniel pointed out, “Try to look for something—an activity or a group—that forces you to speak German. This will help you feel comfortable with the language by the time you graduate.” Ultimately, Alesander, Felipe and Daniel stress that while studying and networking are crucial, enjoying the journey and making lifelong friends is equally important.

A Transformative Journey at HHL

The experiences of our Latin American students at HHL highlight growth, resilience, and unique opportunities. From overcoming challenges to building lifelong networks, HHL provides the tools and experiences to thrive globally. For those considering this path, the message is clear: prepare, engage, and immerse yourself in this rewarding journey.