Taking a chance, finding a future

“I decided to take my chance and come to New Zealand.”

That decision took Dr Ludwig Petters from a suburb of Munich, Germany, to Massey University, where he pursued a PhD in Chemistry. It also led him to a welcoming community, his first-ever graduation ceremony, and a new career opportunity in Australia.

Ludwig’s journey to New Zealand began with a desire to experience more of the world. 

After completing a study abroad programme in Ireland, he was looking for his next opportunity when he discovered a PhD position with Professor Shane Telfer at Massey University.

“The position was perfect for me. I decided to take my chance and come to New Zealand.”

What he found at Massey was more than an outstanding research opportunity. Massey’s friendly community quickly made him feel at home. “Everybody knows each other. It feels like a big family, and that’s something I really enjoyed. It made the whole experience feel comfortable.”

Graduation day was especially memorable because, unlike at his previous university in Germany, his university did not hold formal graduation ceremonies.

“It was my first graduation, actually. In Germany, we just receive our certificate in the mail, so this was my first proper graduation. It was a great experience.”

As he crossed the stage to receive his doctorate, there was one thought running through his mind.

“Don’t trip,” he laughs. “You don’t really think, you just try to take the moment in and enjoy it.”

Reflecting on his time at Massey, Ludwig is grateful for the people who supported him along the way. He credits his academic supervisor for their guidance throughout his research journey, while his family in Germany remained a constant source of encouragement despite the distance.

“My parents have always supported me. They couldn’t make the 30-hour journey to New Zealand because of work commitments, but my partner was here to celebrate with me.”

Looking back on his own journey, Ludwig encourages future students to look after themselves: “Take care of yourself mentally and physically. Study is important, but if you burn out before the end, you’ll never finish. Look after yourself, you’ve got this.”

With his PhD complete, Ludwig is ready for his next adventure. He and his partner have relocated to Wollongong, Australia, where he hopes to begin a career as an industry researcher.