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Erasmus+ Semester at MLU – A Truly Enriching Experience!

In the summer semester of 2024, we had the pleasure of hosting two students from Azerbaijan – Hayat Heydarova and Ilkana Namazova. Both had developed a strong interest in German and European law after attending guest lectures by Prof. Azar Aliyev at ADA University. With a desire to broaden their horizons, they decided to take part in the Erasmus+ exchange program between ADA and MLU.

With the support of university staff and fellow students, Hayat and Ilkana quickly adjusted to the new linguistic and cultural environment. They particularly enjoyed courses in German and European Private and Competition Law, as well as International Commercial Arbitration and Dispute Settlement. Additionally, they attended an International Human Rights Protection course, which, as they noted, presented more challenges due to its philosophical aspects, encouraging them to think critically and gain a deeper understanding of this area of law.

A key moment of their study experience was when Hayat and Ilkana realized that, while Azerbaijan’s legal system has incorporated significant elements of German law, the structure and approach to legal education in Germany are quite different.

Ilkana Erasmus Plus Low Resolution

Ilkana Erasmus Plus Low Resolution

Ilkana Erasmus Plus Low Resolution

Ilkana: In Azerbaijan, students are required to attend lectures, with a minimum attendance of 80% to be eligible for exams. Missing this threshold can result in what is called an „administrative fail”. In Germany, however, lecture attendance is not strictly monitored, and much of the learning process relies on personal motivation and self-discipline. On one hand, this offers more freedom, but on the other hand, it places a greater responsibility on students to manage their own learning.

Hayat: At ADA University, most classes are held two or three times a week, whereas at MLU, at least the legal courses taught in English, usually take place once a week. From my perspective, this makes studying somewhat easier. What also stood out to me is how German students approach their studies with careful attention to detail, thoroughly exploring topics and using a variety of sources to gather in-depth knowledge. I hope that more Azerbaijani students will embrace this approach in the future.

 Hayat Erasmus Plus low resolution

Hayat Erasmus Plus low resolution

Hayat Erasmus Plus low resolution

Beyond their academic pursuits, Hayat and Ilkana made the most of their semester abroad. They not only explored Halle, but also travelled to other German cities such as Berlin, Leipzig, and Bayreuth, all of which are easily accessible from Halle. These travels led to many memorable moments, some of which were rewarding challenges, particularly when navigating language differences.

However, these challenges didn’t stop Hayat and Ilkana from making many new friends from diverse countries, including Turkey and China. They formed a truly intercultural community, honing their communication and networking skills along the way. As the students shared, their time at MLU not only broadened their perspectives but also encouraged them to reflect on their future academic and professional paths, including the possibility of returning to Germany to pursue a master's degree.

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