From international student to engineer

Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg aims not only to educate international talent, but also to attract and retain it in the region. The example of Adeel Inayat Asim shows that this is working: he came to Magdeburg from Pakistan, is studying electrical engineering at the university, and now works as an electrical engineer at a local industrial company. The “FIT for Career Start” certificate programme played a crucial role in his journey; this programme is part of the DAAD’s FIT initiative – promoting the integration of international talent into higher education and the labour market.

The certificate programme is aimed at international Bachelor’s and Master’s students and runs over several semesters. It provides targeted preparation for the German labour market, with language courses, intercultural training, job application workshops, networking opportunities and practical modules. The aim is to strengthen the linguistic, intercultural and professional skills of the participating international students in order to increase their chances of securing a job in the region. “In the FIT programme, I learnt how to submit professional applications, how to present myself in interviews and what companies in Germany expect. This has clearly improved my chances on the job market significantly, as I quickly found my first job in the final stages of my studies,” says Adeel Inayat Asim with a smile.

Luiza Sant Anna Düsedau, the programme coordinator from the International Career Service at the University of Magdeburg, also emphasises the importance of the certificate: “Programmes such as ‘FIT for Career Start’ are key to helping international students make the transition into the German labour market. In doing so, we not only support international students as best we can, but also regional companies wishing to recruit international students, for example through joint workshops and advisory services.

For Adeel Inayat Asim, Magdeburg has long since become his new home: the high quality of life, career prospects in industry and integration into the local community have convinced him to stay here. “Magdeburg offers not only career opportunities, but also an environment in which I feel at home and can continue to grow,” he says.

He encourages other international students to learn German early on, to make use of programmes such as FIT, and to gain practical experience. “It’s also important to build networks, stay active and be patient,” Adeel concludes.

The application period for the “Fit for Career Start” programme in the summer semester of 2026 for international students closes on 8 February 2026.