On May 27, 2025, AmerikaHaus NRW, in cooperation with the Akademie für internationale Bildung (AiB), hosted the second intercultural workshop designed to build essential career competencies for American and German students. Under the guidance of Daniela Simut from the Department for International Students at the University of Cologne, the workshop focused on developing intercultural communication skills crucial for success in today’s globalized job market. The session also offered an opportunity for US exchange students in NRW to connect and network with German students planning to study abroad in the US.

Daniela Simut created a dynamic and engaging program that combined informative presentations with interactive elements, encouraging students to collaborate in mixed groups. She introduced key intercultural theories, concepts, and terminology, equipping students with tools to navigate diverse workplace environments effectively. Through the group activities, participants explored cultural differences and the challenges they present in professional contexts. By analyzing real-life scenarios, students learned how behaviors and expectations vary across cultures and how to adapt their communication styles accordingly.

This workshop successfully combined the development of intercultural competence with transatlantic networking, preparing students to thrive in multicultural settings and allowing them to build concrete ties across the Atlantic.

We thank our cooperation partner AiB and Daniela Simut for leading this impactful workshop.