A Blog about Education Abroad

Category: Faculty of Engineering

  • Arno Zulch at HTWH Konstanz, Germany

    Arno Zulch at HTWH Konstanz, Germany

    Arno Zulch 

    BEng Mechatronics

    Semester Exchange in the First Semester, 2024 at HTWH Konstanz

     

    Pre-departure:

    Embarking on my exchange to HTWG Konstanz University in Germany has been an incredibly transformative experience. Initially, I was conflicted about the decision to move abroad, leave my friends and university behind, and extend my degree by a year. However, inspired by Chris Martin from Coldplay’s words, “If you never try, you’ll never know,” I decided to seize the opportunity. 

    The preparation phase was intense, as it was my first time flying internationally. Navigating visas, flights, and trains was overwhelming, but I finally made it to Konstanz. From that moment on, my life changed dramatically. 

    Experience at the Host University:

    Arno with his international friends

    One of the most enriching aspects of this exchange has been meeting people from all corners of the globe, including America, Chile, Brazil, Mexico, Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Ethiopia, and China. The friendships I’ve formed are invaluable, and the memories we’ve created together are unforgettable. From bike packing around the stunning Lake Constance to visiting Neuschwanstein Castle, and exploring numerous skateparks within a 100km radius while filming a skate movie, every experience has broadened my horizons. Traveling across Europe and immersing myself in different cultures has fundamentally shifted my perspective on life. 

    River surfing in Switzerland

    Konstanz itself is a vibrant and beautiful town, offering endless activities. Whether it’s spending time at the lake with friends or watching the Euro finals at a public viewing, there’s never a dull moment. Studying at HTWG Konstanz has been equally rewarding. The small class sizes and close relationships with lecturers were unlike anything I had experienced before. The courses have been enriching, providing both academic and personal growth. 

    Coming from a family without the financial means to support such an opportunity, I am immensely grateful to have been selected for the BW Stipendium. Without their support, this life-changing experience would not have been possible. Their generosity has opened doors for me that I once thought were out of reach, and for that, I am profoundly thankful. 

    Swimming in the Rhein River, Konstanz

    While there have been moments of loneliness and missing friends and family, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. The opportunity to explore, learn, and grow in such a diverse and dynamic environment has been life-changing. Given the chance, I would undertake this exchange again without hesitation. Germany and its people have truly captured my heart. 

    Return to Stellenbosch:

    I am thrilled to extend my stay in Germany until December for an internship at Volkswagen in Wolfsburg. This opportunity allows me to continue experiencing this remarkable country and its culture. This exchange has been the most exhilarating chapter of my life. The lessons learned, friendships formed, and adventures experienced have all contributed to my personal and academic development. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and look forward to the continued journey. 

  • Matthew Schneider at Stuttgart University, Germany

    Matthew Schneider at Stuttgart University, Germany

    Matthew Schneider

    M. Mechanical Engineering

    Semester Exchange in the First Semester, 2024 at Stuttgart University

     

    Pre-departure:

    Embarking on an exchange program at Stuttgart University was such an exciting opportunity for me. It wasn’t just about expanding my knowledge in mechanical engineering; it was also a chance to soak up the vibrant culture of Stuttgart. Known for its expertise in automotive engineering and advanced manufacturing, Stuttgart is at the heart of the renowned German automotive industry. Being at Stuttgart University, surrounded by experts and researchers who are at the forefront of automotive innovation, was incredibly inspiring. The university’s strong ties with local industries meant I could see theory put into practice, whether touring cutting-edge facilities or engaging in discussions with professionals. It truly brought my studies to life in a way I couldn’t have experienced elsewhere. The University has a good Aerospace Engineering program – which is the focus of my master’s thesis. They also have a highly accomplished student rocket group, HyEnd. I was interested in talking to and sharing ideas with other students in a similar field as me.

     

    Matthew visiting Mercedes-Benz in Stuttgart

    The months leading up to my departure were filled with anticipation and meticulous planning. Getting travel documents in order and organizing accommodation is no small feat. Before leaving, I invested time into learning German and researching the area, as well as finding out about places to visit and things to do outside of the academic world. I wanted to take advantage of being in Germany and exploring cultural landmarks and cuisine. It was important to me to not only immerse myself in the academic environment but also to fully embrace the local culture and lifestyle. Learning some German phrases in advance not only helped me navigate everyday interactions but also
    made me feel more connected to the community from the moment I arrived.

    Preparing for accommodation was another adventure in itself. I wanted to find a place that was close to where I did my work but also offered some good amenities, which was not too difficult in Stuttgart as it is a vibrant town with dedicated student districts. Public transport was another consideration and familiarising myself with the ticket process and DB app were important aspects of my preparation to study abroad. I also had to inform myself on how to open a German bank account and how to register myself at the local registration office.

    Experience at the Host University:

    My time at Stuttgart University was an adventure of enriching experiences that went far beyond just academics. One of the highlights was the opportunity to connect with a large community of welcoming local German students and fellow international peers. Whether in the cafeterias or public transport, I found myself immersed in a cultural exchange and conversations that enriched my understanding of global dynamics and made me understand how where you come from truly can impact you on a deep level.

    Exploring Stuttgart’s rich culinary scene was another delight. From savouring traditional Swabian dishes to trying international cuisines made by other students was all a treat. These experiences not only satisfied my taste buds but also deepened my appreciation for different countries cuisines.

    Being interested in aerospace and rocketry, I had the opportunity to witness rocket engines being tested at the DLR (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt) site in Lampholdshausen. Many students doing a masters degree in aerospace complete their thesis at the DLR and have the opportunity to work on site. This is also where the student rocket group, HyEnd, test their engines and flight hardware. It was an incredible experience, to see and hear rocket engines being tested, and to see the test bench and infrastructure was a privilege. Overall, my experience at Stuttgart University was a transformative journey of personal growth and cultural exploration. It taught me the importance of embracing diversity, both in thought and experience, and prepared me to face future challenges with an open mind and more of a global perspective.

    Managing finances during my stay in Germany was a significant aspect of my exchange experience. Through careful budgeting and taking advantage of student discounts, I navigated living expenses such as accommodation, groceries, and transportation. Dining out may be expensive and hurt ones budget, but making your own food and purchasing food from supermarkets is much more affordable and budget friendly. Travelling in Germany is also made affordable through the Deutschland ticket, which is a monthly subscription costing 49€ and gives you access to any bus, tram and regional train. Taking a trip to a nearby town will not cost you any money if you have this tick

    Return to Stellenbosch:

    As my exchange period drew to a close, I reflected on the transformative impact of my time at Stuttgart University. The knowledge gained, both academically and culturally, has not only enhanced my professional skills but also broadened my perspective on global engineering practices and offered incredible networking opportunities. Returning to my home institution, I bring with me a renewed enthusiasm for my studies and a deeper appreciation for the experiences and lifestyle I had while on exchange.

  • Devin Jefferies at Technical University of Munich, Germany

    Devin Jefferies at Technical University of Munich, Germany

    Devin Jefferies

    M. Electronic Engineering

    Semester Exchange in the First Semester, 2024 at Technical University of Munich (TUM)

    Pre-departure:

    Preparing for the exchange was an exciting yet challenging process. It involved a lot of paperwork, planning, and anticipation. I had to ensure all my documents were in order, secure accommodation in Munich, and familiarize myself with the academic and social environment at TUM. 

    Square in Munich

    Experience at Host:

    Upon arrival at TUM, I was immediately struck by the advanced facilities and the welcoming atmosphere. My research at TUM was focused on F1TENTH, an open-source 1/10th scale autonomous race car platform, which is directly related to my master’s thesis. The state-of-the-art equipment and resources available at TUM significantly enhanced my research. I was able to achieve results that would have been impossible at Stellenbosch due to the limited resources. 

    Moreover, I was introduced to the vibrant German university culture. TUM fosters an environment of collaboration and innovation, which greatly contributed to my academic growth. The professors and fellow students were incredibly supportive, always willing to share knowledge and provide feedback. This collaborative spirit was truly inspiring and motivated me to push the boundaries of my research. 

    A Castle in Germany

    Living in Germany presented some financial challenges, especially given the higher cost of living compared to South Africa. However, with careful budgeting , I managed to navigate these challenges effectively. The key was to plan ahead and prioritize spending, focusing on essentials and making the most of student discounts and affordable options for accommodation and transportation. Despite the higher costs, the experience was well worth the investment, providing invaluable academic and personal growth opportunities. 

    Return to Stellenbosch:

    Returning to Stellenbosch University after the exchange, I brought back a wealth of knowledge and experiences that have profoundly impacted my academic journey. The skills and insights gained at TUM have enriched my research, enabling me to approach my thesis with a new perspective and advanced techniques. Additionally, the personal growth and cultural experiences have broadened my horizons, making me more adaptable and open-minded. 

    Overall, the exchange program at TUM was an unforgettable experience. It not only enhanced my master’s degree but also contributed significantly to my personal and professional development. I am grateful for the opportunity and highly recommend such exchanges to fellow students seeking to broaden their academic and cultural horizons.