Ivan Gyokov moved from Bulgaria in 2016 to stay in Germany. After completing his first semesters in technical degree programmes, he stumbled upon information about working as a language mediator and found his way into social work – a moment that, as he says, ‘changed everything’. Working with people, accompanying and supporting them in their everyday lives, and the meaningfulness of this work ultimately led him to study social work at OTH Regensburg in 2019. Today, he is pursuing a master's degree and also works as a student assistant at the faculty.
Gyokov describes his studies as a path that has helped him grow both professionally and personally. Courses that encouraged him to reflect and exchanges with professors broadened his world view: "My studies not only taught me skills, but also shaped my world view. I learned to recognise complexity – and to develop myself further." He is particularly interested in transnationalism – living between multiple cultural spaces and identities. This topic occupies him not only in his research, but also in his own biography.
During the interview, it became clear how important the people who have accompanied him on his journey are to Gyokov. Ms Jivka Eisenstein, OTH alumna and his first supervisor in language mediation, played a special role, as she opened up the field of social work to him and imparted values that particularly distinguish OTH – social commitment, a sense of responsibility and openness to new perspectives. As his studies progressed, Professor Dr. Martina Ortner provided him with significant support through numerous courses, intensive professional guidance and academic inspiration. Another important companion was Dr. Kismet Seiser from the Youth and Family Therapy Counselling Centre of the City of Regensburg, who supported him during key phases of his studies.
Gyokov has now been working as a language mediator for families from South-Eastern Europe for more than six years, many of them on a voluntary basis. He facilitates access to education and counselling services for those affected, thereby making a significant contribution to understanding and social participation. His supervising professor, Prof. Dr. Wolfram Backert, describes him as a student with ‘exceptional motivation, precise analysis and the ability to place theoretical approaches in a broader social context’. Gyokov has ‘great academic talent’ and goes ‘far beyond the usual level’ in his commitment.
Despite these impressive achievements, Gyokov emphasises that his success is a joint effort: ‘Of course, I wrote my papers myself and took my exams myself. But without the people who stood behind me, half of what I have achieved would not have been possible.’ He was particularly moved by the presence of his mother, who travelled to the award ceremony especially for the occasion.
After completing his master's degree, Gyokov is considering pursuing a doctorate. He sees his academic future clearly in research on migration, social complexity and social science perspectives on identity.
The International Office supports international students throughout their entire study programme in Germany, advises them on residence and study formalities, promotes networking and integration on campus, and thus contributes significantly to a successful start at OTH Regensburg.
