Klara 
Nationality: French
Age: 26 years old 
Occupation: Master’s student in International Relations
@ ICD – Institute of Cultural Diplomacy
In Berlin since February 2021

Between lockdown, distance learning, and a small budget, the situation for students is complicated at this time. We had the chance to meet her when she ordered her Benoo box.  We took the opportunity to ask her a few questions to better understand them. 

Tell us about yourself. 

I come from Aix-en-Provence, France. I decided to do my second year of Master’s degree in International Relations in Berlin. I am very interested in cultural differences and foreign languages. I love to learn new things, whether it is art, customs, and local products, I am passionate about it! 

What did you like about the Benoo box? 

I eat a lot of vegetables so I loved discovering the box because the products were of good quality and the recipe very good. I took the opportunity to introduce my flatmates to new ingredients.   

I am in favour of sustainable food so I appreciate that through Benoo, the products are local and with the appropriate quantity. I find that young people want to take care of the planet but are not yet aware of the environmental impact and local food. 

What is student life like in Berlin? 

I am staying on a campus where I have met several students with whom I regularly share meals. It’s a very multicultural atmosphere. I’m far from home and with this lockdown, it’s sometimes complicated but our teachers are quite present, despite our online classes. We also organise study groups which allow us to motivate each other and create an international community. 

As far as student life is concerned, it’s quite frustrating at the moment because I’m living in a new city that I don’t know. I’m looking forward to getting lost in Berlin and discovering the museums, restaurants and bars. 

What advice would you give to French students arriving in Berlin? 

I joined the Facebook groups International Women Berlin and the Berlineuses. This has given me good tips on furnishings, cheap furniture, etc. 

About Benoo:

The aim of Benoo is to create a community to raise awareness on our environmental impact, in the way we consume and in our good practices. The aim of this interview is to raise awareness of the current situation of students and to build, from our small scale, initiatives that would allow them to improve their daily lives.