Hello, I'm Fabian Kossmann .

Since 2024, I have been studying Artificial Intelligence & Data Science at Trier University of Applied Sciences. My bachelor’s thesis introduced me to the field in greater depth and led me to deepen my knowledge, particularly in machine learning, statistics and data-driven applications.

After completing my Abitur in 2019, I entered a new chapter of my life. As I initially could not choose between mathematics and computer science, I enrolled in both degree programmes. My interest in computer science had already begun at school: as part of an extended project in Year 12 at the Waldorf school, I developed and programmed several Arduino-based projects. I chose Trier University of Applied Sciences because I already knew the city and thought it was a beautiful place. My cousin had also studied there.

Over lunch with friends, our conversation turned to work. Three of them were already working at ZIMK at Trier University at the time. One told me about an open position and encouraged me to apply as a student assistant. At first, I was hesitant: I was concerned about taking on an additional commitment alongside my studies, had never worked before and had only limited practical experience from university projects. In the end, I decided to apply because the role seemed like a valuable opportunity to gain my first professional experience and enter the world of work.

Having completed my Fachhochschulreife with very good results, I wanted to prove to myself and perhaps to my parents as well that I was capable of achieving even more. At the time, moving on to an internship did not feel like the right path for me. I therefore decided to continue straight away and complete my Abitur in one additional year.

My educational path was not always straightforward. At the Waldorf school, before entering upper secondary level, a meeting was held to decide together whether I should pursue the Abitur or the Fachhochschulreife. Although my parents were not particularly pleased at first, I followed my teachers’ recommendation and chose the general Fachhochschulreife with an additional focus on woodworking.

Wanting to step away from my everyday life in Germany for a while, take on a new challenge and gain intercultural experience, I decided to spend a year abroad while I was still at school. At a student exchange fair in Freiburg, I learnt about AFS, an exchange organisation. Since my godfather often travelled to China for work and I was also offered a generous scholarship by Stiftung Mercator, I ultimately chose China. Without speaking more than a few words of Chinese, I embarked on what became a great adventure.