From Bolivia to Jena – For the Love of Physics

This year‘s prize for outstanding achievements of international students at German universities, awarded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), goes to Mateo Zenteno from the University of Jena. In addition to his excellent academic performance, it was his work as a subject tutor and university ambassador that convinced the selection committee. Furthermore, Zenteno is involved in promoting tolerance among students of different faiths. The award, which comes with a prize of 1,000 euros, will be presented to Mr. Zenteno during the ceremonial matriculation on October 20, 2023.

Excellent German-Language Skills and Enthusiasm for Physics

Mateo Zenteno is 21 years old and is in his third semester studying physics at the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy. He was born in 2002 in Sucre, the capital of Bolivia, and began learning the German language already in the fourth grade. His enthusiasm for the field of physics was sparked in the tenth grade by the Spanish physicist Javier Santaolalla, who, as Zenteno recalls, "can explain physical phenomena in an interesting and cool way" via YouTube.

At the end of his school years, Zenteno participated in an orientation program at the University of Jena designed for Latin American German learners. He subsequently decided to pursue his studies in Jena. During his time at the State Studienkolleg in Nordhausen, which prepared him for studying in Germany, he successfully applied for a scholarship from the Support Initiative for German Foreign and Partner Schools (German acronym: BIDS) and began his studies in Jena in the summer semester of 2022.

Early Work as a Subject Tutor and Activism For More Tolerance in Questions of Faith

"Many first-semester students may not be very proficient in mathematics yet, and I enjoyed helping them", said Zenteno about his early involvement as a subject tutor for mathematics in his physics major. In addition, he served as a university ambassador abroad, promoting studying in Jena and assisting with the care of student groups who came to the Friedrich Schiller University for orientation programs. For him, intercultural communication is important so that students can learn about different cultures and gain different perspectives. As a member of the Studierendenmission Deutschland e. V., Zenteno advocates for more tolerance towards all faiths and organizes meetings as well as shared movie and barbecue nights. When asked how he likes Jena, he responds, "I really like it, and I was able to make connections quickly."

The DAAD Prize means recognition to him, but it also confirms his achievements, including in his volunteer work. He intends to use a portion of the prize money to support international organizations that advocate for persecuted Christians. For the future, he wishes that "more and more people can openly, freely, and respectfully discuss their faith and ideas without being stigmatized or judged."

Zenteno is sure that he wants to pursue a master's degree after completing his bachelor's degree but has not yet decided on a specific program. "However, it would be unwise to leave Jena if I end up specializing in optics, for example." So, the chances are good that he will stay in the city by the Saale River.

About the DAAD Prize

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides funding to the University of Jena every year for the DAAD Prize de. The prize can only be awarded to one person annually. The selection criteria for applicants include not only above-average academic performance and outstanding social engagement but also foreign nationality and enrollment in a regular program of study at the Friedrich Schiller University Jena.

Video With the DAAD Prize Laureate