Isabella Fabianski
A university degree has rounded off my educational journey – at last I will be able to achieve my career goals!
My studies
“Social Work” (BA) at the Faculty of Education, University of Duisburg-Essen
That’s what I did before I started university
Dual degree programme (Business Administration and training as an industrial clerk), Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Business Administration at the Mercator School of Management, University of Duisburg-Essen; professional experience in the private sector and in schools
That’s what my daily life at the UDE is like at the moment
Creating safe spaces in discussions with my fellow students, helping out with research projects, and really getting to grips with the topic of my bachelor’s thesis
Isabella, what’s your top concern at the moment when it comes to university?
I’m currently writing my bachelor’s thesis on the topic of ‘Inclusion in all-day schooling from a parents’ perspective’. At the same time, I’m working as a student assistant on a research project at my faculty. I even got to conduct an interview myself. It’s exciting not just to witness research, but to play an active part in shaping it!
You’re currently doing a second degree at UDE. How did that come about?
After completing my work-study programme at a vocational academy and my integrated apprenticeship as an industrial clerk at a global construction firm, I was offered a permanent position there – which should have been a sure thing. However, I soon realised that I actually wanted to pursue a ‘proper’ degree, which for me meant going on to study at university. So I went on to do a Master’s in Business Administration at the University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE). Back in the private sector, more specifically in the training department of a housing company, I learnt something about myself: what I enjoy most is talking to people about their goals. During my Master’s degree, I had already come into contact with the teaching profession. So, as a career changer, I ended up at a comprehensive school, where I taught German as a second language and career guidance.
(Picture: UDE/Fabian Strauch)
(Picture: UDE/Fabian Strauch)
(Picture: UDE/Fabian Strauch)
Why did you choose to study social work?
As a supply teacher, I experienced first-hand just how fulfilling it is to work with small groups of learners. That’s when I realised: I want to work closely with people in a counselling role! My aim is to work in social or migration counselling. I believe that this is where I can put my values into practice and be particularly effective, as my own family has a history of migration. Studying Social Work provides me with everything I need to achieve this goal.
What do you think is the difference between a university degree and a college degree?
My university studies focused heavily on case studies. At the UDE, however, I’m delving deeper: I’m learning to understand historical contexts and analyse structures. Critical thinking is not only permitted, but encouraged. Research and teaching are directly intertwined here – which allows for genuine intellectual growth. Reliability, continuity and professionalism are also important to me – and that, too, is what sets my university studies apart.
(The interview was conducted by Helene Gerhards in July 2025.)