Motive für die Wahl des Fremdsprachenstudiums – am Beispiel von Germanistik-Studierenden mit ukrainischem Migrationshintergrund

The reasons for choosing a specific university and a specific field of study are frequently researched. Among other things, the question is asked which factors primarily influence the choice. The present study follows up on this research question but focuses only on a group of students with Ukrainian background who took up German studies at the University of Szczecin. In the following article, the question of why persons of Ukrainian background choose to study foreign languages is explored. Given the constantly growing number of Ukrainians at Polish universities, addressing this issue is essential and fills the research gap. Results of a study conducted by the author as part of her dissertation are presented. The results presented in this paper are from both the pilot study and part of the main study. A total of fifteen respondents were interviewed. The study is based on a qualitative method. The respondents’ statements, collected through in-depth interviews, reveal their reasons for choosing German studies, especially positive experiences in language learning in the past. Financial considerations and professional aspects also seem to be relevant factors. In addition, interest in language learning in general and interest in German culture play a major role in the choice of foreign language study.