Introduction to the Writer in Residence Program

The Writer in Residence program at Swansea University's Centre for Contemporary German Culture has been hosting visiting writers from the German-speaking countries for the last twenty years. This program aims to promote cultural exchange and provide students and staff with the opportunity to engage with renowned authors and their work.

About Jörg Bernig

Jörg Bernig is a German author who spent two years as a language tutor in Swansea University. He has published poetry, short stories, and three novels, one of which, "Weder Ebbe noch Flut" (Neither Low nor High Tide), is set in Swansea. His work deals with questions of identity and has been awarded several prestigious prizes, including a Hölderlin Prize, a Lessing Prize, and an Eichendorff Prize.

Activities and Events

During his residency, Jörg Bernig will participate in various activities, including:

• Poetry translation workshops and readings for staff and students
• Public reading of his work and launch of new work "flower angel ship" at Noah's Yard, Uplands
• Attending translation classes and student events

Goals and Expectations

The Writer in Residence program aims to:

• Provide students and staff with the opportunity to engage with a renowned author and his work
• Promote cultural exchange and understanding between Germany and Wales
• Support the development of students' language and literary skills

Previous Guests

The Centre for Contemporary German Culture has hosted several notable authors in the past, including:

• Peter Schneider
• Uwe Timm
• Volker Braun
• Esther Dischereit
• Ilija Trojanow
• Zafer Senocak
• Nobel laureate Herta Müller, who received an honorary fellowship from the University in 2012

Conclusion

The Writer in Residence program at Swansea University's Centre for Contemporary German Culture offers a unique opportunity for students and staff to engage with renowned authors and their work. Jörg Bernig's residency promises to be an exciting and enriching experience, providing insights into his writing and creative process.

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Overview:

• Founded in 1920 as University College of Swansea
• Received its Royal Charter in 1948, becoming Swansea University
• Consistently ranked among the top 30 universities in the UK
• Home to over 20,000 students from over 140 countries
• Notable achievements include:
  • 2019 Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education for its work in developing and delivering innovative teaching methods
  • 2018 Times Higher Education Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community
  • 2017 Research Excellence Framework (REF) results showed that 90% of Swansea University's research was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent

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Student Life:

• Over 150 student clubs and societies
• Sports teams in a variety of disciplines, including rugby, football, and basketball
• Student support services include:
  • Counseling and mental health support
  • Disability support
  • Financial advice
  • International student support
• Campus facilities include:
  • Bay Campus: Modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities, including a library, sports center, and student union
  • Singleton Campus: Historic campus with a mix of traditional and modern buildings, including the iconic Singleton Abbey
  • Tycoch Campus: Home to the College of Engineering and the School of Management

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Academics:

• Academic resources include:
  • Over 400 undergraduate and postgraduate programs
  • World-class research facilities
  • Extensive library resources
• Faculty:
  • Over 1,000 academic staff, including internationally renowned researchers and industry experts
• Teaching methodologies:
  • Focus on student-centered learning
  • Use of innovative teaching methods, such as problem-based learning and flipped classrooms
• Academic support services:
  • Academic skills workshops
  • Writing center
  • Math and statistics support
• Unique academic programs or initiatives:
  • Swansea Employability Academy: Provides students with opportunities to develop employability skills
  • Swansea University Global: Offers international study and research opportunities

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Top Reasons to Study Here:

• Top 30 UK university
• Excellent teaching and research
• World-class facilities
• Strong industry connections
• Vibrant student life
• Notable alumni include:
  • Michael Sheen, actor
  • Catherine Zeta-Jones, actress
  • Sir Terry Matthews, entrepreneur

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Services:

• Counseling and mental health support
• Health center
• Housing services
• Library resources:
  • Over 1 million books and journals
  • Access to online databases and e-resources
• Technology support:
  • Free Wi-Fi across campus
  • Computer labs and printing facilities
• Career development services:
  • Career counseling
  • Job search assistance
  • Employer networking events