Jana Gellissen (Jay) (she/they)

Position: 1. Chair

2-Fach Bachelor English Studies & Afrikanistik

Motivation for my Studies:

Learning languages and exploring cultural differences have always fascinated me! Reading classical English literature as well as contemporary works do not only pose a great hobby for me but can also reveal a lot about dominant attitudes and social structures within society. Due to my interest in gaining a deeper understanding for literature, language and social justice issues, my study programmes in their linguistic and socio-cultural focus were a welcomed choice for me. Given the severe lack of an authentic, diversified representation for African countries in western media, I find it all the more intriguing to gain a less generalized impression of the continent’s multifaceted dimensions. Although my future prospects sometimes stress me out, I hope that I will soon be able to find something in the field of interpreting/translation after completing my studies.

Why I joined the Fachschaft: 

The Fachschaft offers the opportunity to get involved for our fellow students while simultaneously gaining practical experience – for me that forms a great balance to the theoretical university routine. The networking opportunities among students and the diverse tasks also motivated me to join. Plus, it’s just fun to work together on projects and actively shape campus life, ensuring that students are represented and also have the possibility to attend events and connect with each other there. And I wanted a Fachschaft hoodie as well. :D

Chiara Witry (she/they)

Position: Finances

2-Fach Bachelor Ethnologie & Afrikanistik

Chiara is a multifaceted individual whose journey began in South Korea under challenging circumstances, leading to being adopted in Luxembourg at an early age. Growing up in Europe, has been a continuous navigation of parallel conflicts, revolving around identity, family, and sense of belonging, fuelling a deeply-desired sense for self-discovery. The current B.A. study degree as well as volunteering at The Social Justice Agency allow for a holistic combination of academic research and field experience through the lens of local communities. Chiara believes in the importance of striving to be better each day and channelling love both outwardly and inwardly.

Motivation for my Studies:

Being able to understand the complex layers that constitute our societies: the impact of humans onto society and the impact of society onto humans. Being able to explore the subtle nuances of our world and attempting to understand its complexities was a primary reason to enter the Anthropology field. Due to my personal sentiment for topics such as identity and sense of belonging, my choice for the Anthropology & African Studies degree has been a potential gateway to understanding and finding myself in the process.

Why I joined the Fachschaft: 

I believe that change can and should be affected on various levels, regardless of the scale or size of impact. Being part of an entity within an Institute, that is given a certain agency to transform and improve the circumstances, is an extreme luxury and privilege, I could not not be part of. Communication and interpersonal connections are integral parts of what I believe to be key elements to creating a wider and more accepting society.