David Sommer (aged 27)

Where do you work?

I am the Project Lead at disserto management gmbh. We configure and program customer-specific and industry-specific enterprise solutions based on Microsoft products. As a Microsoft Gold Partner, we have specialized in two different systems: a database system and a document management system. Our main strength is merging these systems and expanding upon them using modules we develop. As such, we are able to realize our customers’ wishes and implement flexible, end-to-end solutions for business processes.

Why did you choose Berlin?

I originally come from Wismar, in the west of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. When I was studying there, I got the feeling that I would like to move to a bigger city. I was considering either Munich or Berlin, but it was a pretty easy decision. For one thing, I have relatives in Berlin, and it’s also closer to my hometown. So that’s why I moved to Berlin, or more specifically, to Potsdam.

Who or what made settling into Berlin easier for you at first?

My dog. (laughs). I’ve always wanted a dog. When I first got my own apartment, I got a dog straight away. I was able to meet a lot of people when taking my dog for a walk each day. It’s great. You go for a walk, get talking to people here and there, and that can develop into friendship. I also joined a soccer team relatively quickly, and my circle of friends gradually expanded.

What do you love about Berlin?

The Berlin way of life is just amazing. There are so many opportunities here. The movie theaters and shopping malls are much bigger than in Potsdam, for example. Even though I live in Potsdam, I always go to the movies in Berlin. The area around Berlin is just beautiful as well. You can go cycling there, for example in the Havel area or along the river Spree. I love nature and Berlin and its surrounding area have a lot of natural beauty to offer.

If you could give one tip to someone who is new to Berlin, what would it be?

Join a club! Combine your hobby with your integration into the community. It opens new doors and you get to know new people. And when you’ve settled down in Berlin and like nature too, then you should take a trip out along the Spree to the Müggelsee or along the Havel to the Wannsee. The countryside around Berlin is really beautiful.