Open Lecture Hall: Jonna Bollow – Same Goal, Different Path

Even before graduating from high school, one thing was clear: Jonna Bollow wanted to work for democracy—not just in her personal life, but also professionally. “Back then, I imagined working for the EU or becoming a diplomat.” The plan was quite realistic: Jonna Bollow speaks fluent English and secured one of the coveted spots in the European Studies program in Maastricht. She moved to the Netherlands; everything seemed perfect. 

But then came the disillusionment: The coursework was exciting, but it wouldn’t lead Jonna Bollow to her desired goal. “I quickly realized: If I want to make a political impact, the EU level isn’t right for me. I saw how difficult it is to implement many things. I want to be involved in democracy in a much more direct way.”

She changed her plan, but not her goal: “My mother is a teacher, and I’ve seen what education can achieve.” But this time, she wanted to be more certain of her decision—and came across the Open Lecture Hall at Leuphana. People of all ages can attend regular lectures there. “For me, it was a great opportunity to get to know Leuphana and campus life. I was won over by the culture of discussion and the opportunity for open exchange.”

Auditors can choose from over 200 lectures. Among other things, Jonna Bollow opted for a lecture on the New Testament: “The school subject of religion offers plenty of opportunities to talk with children and young people about ethics, love for one’s neighbor, and character development. For me, this exchange is an important part of a democratic education,” explains Jonna Bollow. 

But there’s something else that’s important to her: “Even the youngest children can experience what it feels like to live in a community where everyone has equal rights, but where individual needs also matter. Democracy doesn’t just begin in the classroom.” That’s why Jonna Bollow completed a federal volunteer service program at a kindergarten in Lüneburg.

She earned her high school diploma in Mölln: “Leuphana has an excellent reputation for teacher education, which is why I chose Lüneburg.” It wasn’t just Leuphana that won her over—the Hanseatic city itself, with its more than 1,000 years of history, stepped gables, and many recreational opportunities, also made a strong impression: “I fell in love with Lüneburg the very first time I visited.”

In the upcoming winter semester, Jonna Bollow will begin her teacher education program at Leuphana, majoring in German and Protestant Religion. “The Open Lecture Hall gave me the confidence to make my decision. Now I’m looking forward to orientation week and my studies at Leuphana.” Sometimes a detour can lead you right in the right direction.