Sebastian Wilks has been working at the university for 20 years. He is now head of the Academic Examination Office. He wants to use his position to help shape the university's development.
Were you nervous before exams in the past?
Sebastian Wilks: Yes, absolutely. And I have failed an exam before. Today, I see that as a valuable experience that helped me progress.
You have been head of the Academic Examination Office since the beginning of the year. What does your job involve?
We advise and provide information on all matters relating to examination law, which in itself is very diverse. I have numerous appointments, am involved in working groups and deal with fundamental decisions, such as the further development of the Examination Office. In my new role, I also lead a team of 28 people, which I find very exciting. I find my job very varied, mainly because of the many different people I meet every day at the university.
You are currently introducing new exam management software. What is it all about?
Our current exam management software – familiar to teachers and students from Stud.IP – is getting on in years. We urgently need a tool that is state-of-the-art. We are currently in the middle of this three-year project. The new software is scheduled to replace the old one at the end of the year. It will have a user-friendly interface and meet the needs of all users. This will also help us make further progress in terms of digitising our administration. As soon as the changeover becomes concrete, we will communicate this in good time and publicly within the university.
What do you do to relax after work?
After work, I like to spend time with my family; I have two children. And two years ago, I discovered road cycling. I really enjoy it.
Do you have a favourite place on campus?
When I have time during my lunch break or am not in the cafeteria, I really enjoy walking in the Haarenniederung – especially when the sun is shining.
You are a trained office communications specialist. What led you to university?
Initially, it was Faculty III and the office of the Institute of German Studies. Here, I trained as an administrative specialist while working. After that, I moved to the Academic Examination Office, where I started as a clerk and was able to qualify as an administrative specialist. I then worked as deputy head of department for several years. The fact that I now head the department is a great step forward for me and a huge responsibility, which I am happy to take on. It gives me the opportunity to help shape the university, which I find very rewarding.
Were there any special moments in your job that you like to look back on?
Two that spring to mind: thanks to my lovely colleagues, I was allowed to “sweep” the cafeteria foyer on my 30th birthday, which was a wonderful experience (laughs). The move of our department from the cafeteria building to the Student Service Centre just under ten years ago was also particularly exciting. We had to clear out the examination archive, including the student files, pack everything into boxes and unpack it at the new location. Back then, there was a really large amount of paper, which is no longer the case today. Because we only had a limited time frame for the move, everyone had to pitch in. It was a lot of fun and strengthened our team.
Interview: Sophie Bloser
