Deutschlandstipendium “Someone who is investing in my future”

The Deutschlandstipendium at FAU

The auditing and consulting company Rödl & Partner with its headquarters in Nuremberg funds two Deutschlandstipendium scholarships at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg. One of the scholarship holders is Vanessa Kraus, who is studying for a Master’s degree in Finance, Auditing, Controlling, Taxation at FAU. Scholarship holder Vanessa Kraus and Hariklia Horsch, Employer Branding at Rödl & Partner, share their experiences with the Deutschlandstipendium.

Hariklia Horsch, Employer Branding at Rödl & Partner:

What motivated you to become a donor for the Deutschlandstipendium?

We wanted not only to boost the academic career of our scholarship holders, but also to accompany them on their journey toward becoming successful and responsible individuals, thereby making a sustainable contribution to society. We hope that by easing their burden, our support will allow students to continue to commit to voluntary work and offer them possibilities to establish valuable, long-lasting connections.

What does the scholarship entail?

As well as providing subject-specific support and exciting insights into our various professions and daily work, we are pleased to be able to give our scholarship holders valuable inspiration for their future careers and shape their professional future. We also offer internships that not only allow students to gain experience in the sector, but also often help them get a foot in the door. Our scholarship holders greatly appreciate this opportunity. That apart, we are always available for them, whether it is for a meeting in one of our offices, dinner together or a virtual coffee chat.

What is particularly important for you when choosing a scholarship holder?

A balanced combination of top academic performance, personal values and commitment to social projects are our main priorities. These young talents are not only top achievers in their field, but also have the ability to take on a significant role as leaders and problem solvers in tomorrow’s society.

What experience have you had with scholarship holders to date?

Our experience so far has been extremely positive. The feedback from our scholarship holders confirms that the scholarship is not only greatly appreciated as financial assistance, but also as a major source of motivation. Several of them have told us that the scholarship encouraged them to pursue their goals with even more determination. They greatly appreciate the personal contacts that provide them with valuable support during their academic and professional careers.

What advice would you give someone who was considering to become a donor for the Deutschlandstipendium?

Based on our experience, we would wholeheartedly recommend funding a Deutschlandstipendium scholarship. As a company, we benefit greatly from accompanying talented and dedicated students on their journey and supporting them in their development. The gratitude and pleasure demonstrated by our scholarship holders clearly indicate the positive influence the scholarships can have on young people’s futures. In addition, the scholarships initiate long-lasting relations on both a personal and professional level. Donors of Deutschlandstipendium scholarships will not regret it – it is an investment in the future that benefits society as a whole.

Vanessa Kraus, Student:

To what extent has the scholarship influenced your academic career or career planning to date?

As I am extremely interested in sustainability reporting, I was obviously really pleased when I heard who my donor was. I had already been able to meet my two points of contact, Ms. Horsch and Prof. Keller, in person. They not only expressed a great interest in us scholarship holders, they also invited me to come in to the office to get to know Rödl & Partner better, and to visit the Sustainability department.

How important is it for you that someone invests in your future?

The fact that someone invests in my future is for me a sign of their trust in me. It means that they see and support my skills and ambitions, and it motivates me to keep working on these.

How important do you consider the support of donors or scholarship programs?

In addition to financial support, scholarships often offer other valuable opportunities. For me, it is an honor to be able to benefit from the support of a donor such as Rödl & Partner, a donor who, as I have already experienced, is not only available to help with subject-specific questions but also actively supports our personal development and individual interests.

What would you advise other potential scholarship holders who are considering submitting an application?

Be authentic and honest in your application. If you are passionate about a particular topic, whether it relates to your studies, to society or to social projects, share this enthusiasm and apply. Your achievements in your degree program are an important part of your application, but your engagement and motivation are just as important. And if at first you don’t succeed, try again! My first attempt was not successful either.

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