Profile

Rafael, a doctoral candidate from Munich, received his BA in International Studies and in German Studies from the University of Southern Indiana in 2011. He completed an MA in International Relations at the University of Indianapolis in 2013 and an MA in German Studies at the University of Connecticut in 2016. His research focuses on the German literature from the late 18th to early 19th century, specifically on the influence and glorification of various elements in Novalis’ Heinrich von Ofterdingen (1802) and Hymnen an die Nacht (1800). His further interests include Digital Humanities and German-DDR Film. Previously, he has taught elementary and intermediate German at the University of Connecticut, receiving numerous teaching awards.

Outside of class, Rafael enjoys outdoor activities that mostly include hiking and playing soccer. He also likes to cook and sing occasionally.