Khalid Ousri

It was clear to me that I wanted to be really good at something and at the same time pursue a career with a promising future.

My degree programme

„Business Administration“ (M.Sc.), Master’s programme in „Management and Economics“ at the Mercator School of Management, University of Duisburg-Essen

This is what I did before

‘Modern East Asian Studies’ (B.A.), Faculty of Social Sciences

This is what a typical day looks like for me

In the morning, I head to the library, then to seminars, with a snack at the U-Café in between, and back to the library. In the evening, I like to spend time in my shared flat.

Khalid, how did you choose your degree programme?

My fascination with China began early on – friends of my parents spoke Chinese, which immediately captivated me. I taught myself my first vocabulary using YouTube videos and took Chinese lessons during my school years. It then became clear to me that I wanted to become really good at it and at the same time pursue a career with a promising future, so I was looking for a combination of language, regional studies and economics. I ultimately chose Modern East Asian Studies at the UDE. Although a few other universities offer similar programmes, it was clear to me that I wanted to go to a university. The UDE therefore had a unique selling point for me. I am now in my first semester of a Master’s degree in Business Administration (Management and Economics) at the Mercator School of Management and am excited to see what lies ahead.

What made your studies special for you?

My stay abroad! I spent two semesters in Wuhan. The faculty organised everything really well, which made it easier for me to take the plunge. I had a great time there, improved my Chinese and met some wonderful people.

„I specifically searched for a university degree programme.“
„I also wanted to do my master’s degree at the UDE.“
„Studying can also mean: standing up for others.“

University is more than just lectures. What experiences have you had on campus?

I volunteered as a campus scout for the Academic Advisory Centre (ABZ), where I accompanied prospective students and showed them what everyday life at university is like. As a member of the autonomous queer department of the General Student Committee (AStA), I organised events and processed student applications in the hardship committee of the student parliament (StuPa). It sounds like a lot of work, but I gradually grew into it. My tip for anyone who wants to get involved: think about what helped you during your studies, and the right opportunity will almost certainly present itself.

Saarbrücken, Morocco, Heidelberg: you have lived in many places. What do you appreciate about Duisburg?

Duisburg-Neudorf is a great place to live because it’s close to the campus, and I also like the inner harbour with its bars and restaurants. Otherwise, we’ve hit the jackpot here: I can quickly get to Essen, Cologne and Düsseldorf by train, where the influence of Asian communities is noticeable.

(The interview with Khalid was conducted by Helene Gerhards in May 2025.)

Curious?
Here you can find information about Khalid’s degree programme!

„Management and Economics“ (M. Sc.)

And here for all other options
at the University of Duisburg-Essen.

12 faculties, more than 250 degree programmes, one goal: your education!