10 years CGA: Faces of our programme

In addition to the PhD programme, the CGA also offers a Master Fellowship programme for students with a BSc degree who wish to start their MSc studies in Cologne and are interested in the field of ageing research. One of our Master Fellows, Syed Musa Ali, who was awarded a CGA Master Fellowship in 2023, talks about his application, his first months in Cologne and his experiences as a CGA Master Fellowship holder:

1. Could you tell us about your experience of transitioning from a bachelor's degree to a Master programme at the University of Cologne? How were your first months in Cologne, could you share some memorable moments?

Transitioning from a bachelor's degree to a master's program at the University of Cologne was both exciting and challenging. Academic demands increased, needing higher levels of critical thinking and research skills. My first months in Cologne were spent exploring, adapting to a new city, and making friends. Discovering the city's rich history and taking part in cultural events such as the Cologne Carnival, were all memorable experiences.

2. What motivated you to apply for the CGA Master Fellowship Programme? After a few months as a Master Fellow, what are some of the key benefits and opportunities you’ve enjoyed as part of the programme? Can you tell us about your involvement in scientific and social activities within your mentor’s group?

I applied to the Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Master Fellowship Programme out of my passion for studying ageing-related diseases and my desire to contribute to the field. As a Master Fellow, I've gained access to cutting-edge research resources, networking opportunities, and mentorship from esteemed faculty. Within my mentor's group, I've actively engaged in scientific discussions, research projects, and social activities, fostering a dynamic academic environment.

3. How has this involvement shaped your understanding of ageing research and potential areas for future PhD study? What are your plans for your next steps during your Master studies and perhaps beyond?

My involvement in the Cologne Graduate School of Aging has deepened my understanding of aging research and has illuminated potential avenues for future PhD study, focusing on understanding and enhancing stem cell function in aging. During my Master studies and beyond, I intend to further explore this area, aiming to contribute to advancements in understanding and potentially intervening in age-related functional decline in stem cells.

4. What advice would you give to future Bachelor graduates who are considering applying for a master's degree and finding a suitable programme? Do you have any advice for students considering applying for the CGA Master Fellowship Programme?

For future Bachelor graduates considering applying for a master's degree, I advise looking for programs that offer opportunities for research, networking, and personal growth. Specifically, for students considering applying for the CGA Master Fellowship Programme, I recommend emphasizing your passion for ageing research and highlighting any relevant experiences or skills. Additionally, be prepared to engage with faculty and peers, as collaboration and actively participating in research are key aspects of successful application for the fellowship.

What was your original vision for the CGA?

The original vision was to establish a graduate program that provides broad interdisciplinary training on the biology of aging and aging-associated diseases that attracts the best students from different disciplines and different places of the world. Now that I see how the CGA has developed and what has been achieved over the last 10 years, I am really proud and happy that I was able to help with the first steps, set the direction and share my vision.

Looking back, is there a special or funny anecdote about CGA from the early days/years?

One thing I always liked and thought was special and worked from the start was the recruitment week: Students who came from all over the world enjoyed the program and quickly bonded through the PI poster session, the BBQ and the evening social events.

I also enjoyed hearing what the students were doing and what their backgrounds were. Some of them had interesting hobbies, e.g. being a radio presenter and connecting communities, being very good at parcours, or enjoyed other exceptional leisure activities.

Another time, I joined the group of students during the recruitment week for the Dom rooftop tour - it was amazing! However, when we arrived, we found out the lift was out of order, so we had to climb the stairs. It was a struggle, but eventually, we made it to the top, where we enjoyed a magnificent view of the city.

Daniela, you started working as a CGA coordinator in 2014, Julia in 2019. Can you share some memories from your past years in the programme?

Daniela and Julia: For us, the most memorable moments with our students are when they start, at the CGA Welcome Days, when we get to meet all these excited, diverse and super interesting people from all over the world. Throughout their PhD projects we have numerous valuable interactions with the students and classes such as individual counseling sessions, networking BBQs or summer parties. Another highlight for us is also the Graduate Symposium, where we have the opportunity to see these same students, now as independent researchers, each with unique talents and stories to share. One class created a custom-made quartet game for us, which consisted of a card for each class member showing off their abilities and superpowers. Not only was it a truly kind gesture but also a really enjoyable game!! Overall, it is always amazing and heartwarming for us to see our graduating class and we are so proud of all our students, especially on THEIR graduation day.

What motivates you most and what do you enjoy most about your job? Have there been times or occasions that you would like to forget?

Daniela and Julia: Well, let's start with the things that can sometimes be really difficult: as coordinators, we sometimes feel like jugglers who have to keep one ball in the air after the other. Not letting one of the balls slip out of our hands is a real challenge and can be overwhelming at times... On the other hand, there are several situations where we can assist and support our students: Moments when people leave our office with a smile on their face, relieved and confident to take their next steps, those moments really show us that our work has meaning and purpose.

Do you think you need specific skills and interests to work as a coordinator in science management? What would you recommend to a student interested in this type of job?

Daniela and Julia: We think it helps not to lose your head when there are several events to organize, a million projects in the pipeline and you have to manage different deadlines with different people at the same time... haha! Knowing the scientific landscape in Germany and Europe also helps a lot, as does staying curious and eager to explore new ways of thinking and learn from other people. In general, it helps to be emphatic, diplomatic, patient and understanding when managing projects with PIs, students and other coordinators. A job in science management, especially as a graduate school coordinator, has many facets and you can be very creative and really use your individual strengths for this kind of work: You need to organize events and manage projects, take care of public relations, support students in organizing their curriculum and also mediate in conflict situations. In addition, it is a good feeling to have a colleague who has your back. We think you can best focus on your strengths and interests by sharing the work, just as we do.