Josefa Pöhls
Josefa’s passion for media brought her from her home in Germany to NHL Stenden and a place in the Creative Business programme. Open-minded, determined, and communicative, Josefa’s love of meeting new people and learning about different cultures has taken her on an exchange semester to Austria, studying InterMedia that deepened her understanding of diverse perspectives.
“I had no idea what to study until a university fair changed everything. NHL Stenden students approached me, and their energy was infectious. Their enthusiasm led me to explore the university further and attend webinars, which was when I discovered the Creative Business programme. As a practical learner, I was drawn to the design-based education concept, so I decided to take a leap of faith and move to the Netherlands.”
“Although I wasn’t sure what to expect from the programme, I’d hoped to at least have fun and learn about media and management – I wasn't disappointed. I have explored my creativity, worked with real companies, and gained hands-on experience. One of the most exciting projects I’ve worked on so far was creating That’s a red flag, a dating show for our programme’s own streaming platform, Matters. Even though it was intense scripting, filming and directing, it gave me a real taste of the production industry. Another huge plus for me was the chance to study abroad. I really wanted to see how other universities work and what teaching methods they use, which made going on an exchange semester an easy decision.”
Framing the future
“During my exchange in Austria, there was a moment of pure appreciation and gratitude when I thought, ‘Wow, I can’t believe I get to have this experience!’ A highlight was the photography course we took, which focused on food waste, where we had to create and execute a photoshoot concept on the need for change. One of our projects even made it into a major exhibition! Seeing our names alongside professional photographers was completely surreal and unforgettable.”
“I was intrigued by how different working methods lead to different results and how people do not always have the same expectations. An exchange semester definitely diversifies your perspective a lot more and helps you connect more easily with others. It also shows you what you miss about your home university and what you would maybe want to implement there. Adapting wasn’t always straightforward, but I spun every challenge into a learning moment and I think this has made me more versatile in the long run.”
Learning through experience
“Moving abroad first to the Netherlands made it easier to move again the second time, and I loved meeting new people and traveling through Austria and Europe. Every time I go back home, I realise how much I’ve grown compared to my old self and my hometown. It’s an experience I’m incredibly grateful for and one that has shaped me in so many ways. I’m still figuring out exactly what I want to do after graduation, but I know I want to explore my passions – especially in production, creative concepts, and the gaming industry. Our programme and the opportunity to go on exchange have given me a solid foundation, and now I can’t wait for my upcoming group projects and internship.”
Find out more about Creative Business on the programme website and about going on an exchange semester.