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From Mexico to Germany: José's journey of learning German and studying robotics
Starting a Master's degree abroad is never an easy decision, especially when it involves studying in a new language, adapting to a new culture and finding your place in an unfamiliar academic environment. José Antonio Zárate Ramos, or "Josean" as his friends call him, has experienced this journey first-hand. Originally from Mexico, he has overcome the challenges of German courses to present his work at an international conference on automated driving technologies, all while establishing a life for himself as a student in Germany.
In this interview, José shares his background, the challenges he has faced and the lessons he has learned. His story offers valuable advice and inspiration for anyone considering studying in Germany.
Background & Motivation
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background before joining the program?
My name is Jose Antonio, my friends call me Josean, I’m 27 years old, and I’m currently studying the M.Sc. Robotic Systems Engineering.
My Bachelor’s background includes a double degree in Mechatronics at Tec de Monterrey in Mexico, and the Hochschule Bochum.
What motivated you to choose this program and university?
As I mentioned before, I lived in Germany for one and a half years, from 2021 to July 2022. During that time, I completed a double degree program at the Deutsches Hochschule Internationales Konsortium (DHIK), which encourages students from Mexico to study, complete an internship, and write a bachelor's thesis in Germany.
During my first stay in Germany, I improved my German skills, and I gained hands-on experience programming AI models during my internship while writing my bachelor's thesis. These two experiences, combined with my background in mechatronics, motivated me to pursue a Master's in Robotics at RWTH Aachen University, which had a particular focus on AI technologies.
Challenges & Experience
What were the biggest challenges you faced during your studies?
Keeping up with my university courses while learning German was one of the most difficult things I’ve done, but I'm happy that I stuck to it. I usually didn’t have much time during the week to attend a German course because my course schedule was always crazy.
This meant that I attended a German course at the Volkswagen Sprachschule every Saturday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm for more than three years to reach the C1 level. This included online courses due to the pandemic. It involved sacrificing many Friday nights and going out with friends, but it was totally worth it.
Was there a turning point or experience that helped you overcome these challenges?
I first started learning German in high school. Since it had a multicultural focus, I took my courses in English and learned a second foreign language. I struggled to learn German because the system prioritized speed over quality and because I didn’t have a learning habit.
By the time I started the university in Mexico, I had reached a B1 level, but I knew that if I stopped learning, I would forget and lose all the effort I had put in during high school. That’s why I decided to attend the German course.
What resources, people, or opportunities supported you along the way?
My family has always been there for me. They are an important pillar in my life. I used several apps to enhance my learning and watched tons of movies and German series on Netflix. I also listened to German music. The best opportunity I’ve taken advantage of was participating in this double degree program during the pandemic.
Watch the Interview with Jose
In this video, José shares his personal journey of learning German, adapting to student life in Aachen, and preparing for his career. A great chance to hear his story in his own words.
The interview with José begins at timecode 11:30. Before it starts, you have the opportunity to participate in a quick German language check!
Achievements & Success
What achievement are you most proud of during your time here?
Back when I was doing my internship at IAV GmbH, my former supervisor, Dr. Ralf Hofmann, sent me to Wiesbaden to present all the work that I had done during my internship. He sent me to AZT Live, a renowned conference on advances in automated driving technologies.
It was a very special and unique occasion for me for two reasons. First, I was an intern about to present on AI in front of several experts. I was really nervous, of course, but also excited about the challenge ahead. Second, the day I presented marked one year since I arrived in Germany. It was a huge development from seeing Day-One José struggling to ask for a SIM card at Frankfurt Airport to presenting at an international conference.
How has this experience shaped your personal and professional growth?
Professionally, learning German opened the door to my first professional experiences. I was able to collaborate with an international team and gain more experience in the field of research.
However, I value the personal growth I’ve experienced even more. I learned to be independent and to not take anything for granted. I learned to be grateful for the opportunity to be here and to value every moment of life, no matter how small or trivial. During my internship, I lived in a small, peaceful, quiet town called Rutesheim, so I spent a lot of time alone, to which I wasn’t really used to.
Some days were hard, but they taught me to be more mindful of my experiences, the meaningful relationships I was forming, and the decisions I was making. This developed my personality in a positive way and helped me hone my emotional intelligence. More importantly, living alone made me realize how much I missed my family and friends. But I knew that change was necessary for growth, and that meant my place wasn't at home at that moment.
Advice & Inspiration
What advice would you give to future students starting their journey?
Don't be too hard on yourself. I used to demand a lot from myself and push myself to my limits because I know I am capable of achieving anything I set out to do. I worried too much about my experiments and whether they were good enough or meaningful. This made me anxious and unable to control my stress, which harmed me a lot. Keep things simple. Solve one problem at a time. Sometimes, you just need to go with the flow and let life dictate what's next.
Make tons of mistakes in German. This is actually the main reason why I improved my conversational skills so much. Don't worry too much if you make a mistake; people will understand and help you improve. You just need to lose the fear of speaking and accept any feedback you can get from native speakers.
Looking back, what would you tell yourself on your first day here?
Don't be too hard on yourself, and don't trust WG Gesucht that much. 😄
Future Plans
What’s next for you after graduation (career, personal projects, goals)?
Personally, I’d love to go back to Mexico one day and start a family. For now, though, I’d like to stay in Germany a little longer and work in the robotics industry with AI applications or something related to smart factories.
José’s story shows how an open mindset, persistence, and language learning can turn challenges into opportunities. His advice to future international students is clear: be patient with yourself, embrace mistakes, and appreciate every step of the journey.
We are impressed by José’s hard work and growth throughout his studies. We wish you all the best for your future, both personally and professionally, and we are excited to see where your journey takes you next!