Kategorie: ‘Master’
My Internship in Athens
- Engineering Geohazards M.Sc.
- Greece, Athens
- Agricultural University of Athens
- 03/2025 – 06/2025
When I first decided, that I wanted to spend some months during my studies in Greece, I was very overwhelmed with the organisation. Luckily, throughout my academic career I was able to already make some contacts to academic staff at Agricultural University in Athens. These people were very willing to host me as an intern in their department for a few months. Hence, I was lucky in finding an internship place relatively fast.
The next challenge then was to find accommodation. I did not know what I was looking for really. I only knew that I definitely did not want to live on my own but in a shared flat, to be able to make new contacts and friends quickly. Most online resources and friends of mine who had already lived in Greece longerterm, suggested to check Facebook groups to find listings of rooms in shared apartments. Whilst this was a good suggestion and I also contacted some of the listings, I kept being fearful of scams. I had heard a lot about scamming in Greece (which to this day, I have never experienced myself. Probably, this is only a bad stereotype of the Greek). This is why I then opted for renting a room through the platform ‘Housinganywhere’. I was very lucky in finding a room in a shared apartment in a very central location (Exarchia). When I moved in, I was very excited to meet my flatmates because I had no idea who I would be living with for the next three months. However, I was very lucky to be sharing the apartment with a 25 year old German and a 23 year old Romanian. We quickly became friends and explored our new home together.
I had previously been to Greece either for vacation or for work trips several times and always perceived the living expenses to be incredibly low. However, I must withdraw this statement. Now, that I have spent so much time in Athens, I must say that living expenses are nearly equal to those in Germany (Aachen). Whilst some produce like fresh fruit and vegetables or public transport were shockingly cheap, other expenses like rent, groceries, toiletries etc. were just as expensive as they are in Germany. Obviously, Athens as a large town and the capital of Greece, is rather expensive in comparison to other Greek cities. However, this left me wondering, how the typical Greek person can manage to live in Athens with the normal Greek salary.
My everyday-life in Athens was mostly dominated by the 40 hours per week that I spent inside the university working. Whilst I got to know many other Erasmus students and other Internationals, I was mostly surrounded by Greek people at work. I felt this to be a very enriching experience since I was able to learn a lot about the Greek mentality, lifestyle and mindset only through my working hours. Outside my work, I spent most of my time with other international student and/or my flatmates. Together, we tried to navigate life in Athens without getting lost in this busy city. In our free time, we naturally spent most of our time outside, in parks or on the beach. Living so close to the sea and being able to spontaneously decide to go swim in the ocean felt like a huge privilege to me.
Additionally, I tried to explore as much of Greece outside of Athens as I could. Through a thousand different options of transportation – busses, trains, trams, metros, rental cars, … – I was able to explore many remote areas as well as urban areas within Greece. These included Kalamata, Gerolimenas, Methoni, Glyfada, Korinth, Koroni and many more. In addition to that, I also really fell in love with the ancient history of Greece and spent time visiting archaeological sites like the Akrokorinth or the Delphi oracle and also the monasteries of Meteora.
If I could, I would advise everyone who thinks about spending time abroad, to consider choosing Greece. Whilst the language might seem difficult and the life in Greece seems to be busy and chaotic, it is also an incredibly beautiful country full of lovely people, delicious food, rich history, beautiful landscapes – and of course many cute cats. I have felt very welcome wherever I went in Greece, with numerous Greeks being able to even speak some German to me. The Greek people were always happy to include me in their culture and life, introduce me to their local food and traditions and make me feel at home.
Writing my Master’s Thesis in Kraków
- Physics M.Sc.
- Poland, Kraków
- Uniwersytet Jagielloński
- 09/2024 – 06/2025
1. Application/Finding an internship
I became aware of the Erasmus+ internship because I wanted to return to the research group where I had already written my Bachelor’s thesis for my Master’s thesis. Unfortunately, it was not possible to write my Master’s thesis there. The group leader therefore suggested that I ask one of the cooperation groups in Lübeck or Krakow whether they could offer me an internship to write my thesis there. So that’s what I did.
I chose Krakow because I had already studied in Aachen for a few years and wanted to get to know another country. I had also wanted to learn a Slavic language for a long time, so Poland was an obvious choice.
The application process was quite straightforward overall, as I already had contacts in Krakow. The whole thing was quick and easy to organize, especially as the local group was happy to provide support. It was therefore not necessary for my university to help me find an internship; I was supported by my former research group.
2. Accomodation & Living expenses
During my stay in Krakow, I lived in an apartment that I looked for myself. However, it wasn’t easy to find an apartment, as most of the platforms are in Polish. If you only speak English, the choice is much more limited. So I was all the luckier: I found a well-located apartment that was in good condition. My landlord had also grown up in the USA and spoke fluent English, which made things a lot easier.
It is generally more difficult to find a suitable apartment in English. Many offers that are suitable for international students are either very outdated (e.g. apartments with a coal stove in the living room) or simply overpriced.
The cost of living in Krakow is generally lower than in Aachen. As far as food is concerned, I would say that the prices are roughly comparable to Germany. However, eating out is much cheaper and leisure activities are also usually affordable. Public transportation is well developed. However, there is no equivalent to the Deutschland-Ticket for students – instead you get a 51% discount on tickets.
3. Everyday life/ the internship
During the week, I went to university to work on my Master’s thesis. I also took some courses at the Jagiellonian University, which were not directly part of the Erasmus program, but were of great interest to me. The atmosphere at the university was very pleasant, open and collegial. There were only occasional minor problems in the administrative area, as not all staff speak fluent English. In such cases, I had to rely on the support of my supervisor, who helped me a lot.
In terms of content, I worked with neural networks as part of my Master’s thesis. Roughly speaking, the aim of the research group is to develop a detector that can be used in the field of proton therapy, a precise form of radiotherapy for cancer, in order to improve the accuracy of the treatment. In the process, I gained a lot of new knowledge, especially in the areas of machine learning, data structures and the application of ROOT, a widely used data analysis framework in physics.
The collaboration with my colleagues on site was relaxed and pleasant, which made the work much easier. The main language of communication in the lab and in the office was English, as Polish is quite a demanding language and I couldn’t speak much myself yet. Nevertheless, I took the opportunity to learn a little Polish to help me settle into everyday life.
4. Free time/tips
In my free time in Krakow, I had an incredible number of opportunities to be active and enjoy nature. Right next to the campus is a disused quarry with crystal-clear water, a popular place for swimming and relaxing. You can also climb the surrounding rock faces nearby. In general, the region around Krakow offers many opportunities for climbing, as the so-called “Polish Jura” stretches between Krakow and Częstochowa, a limestone mountain range with an impressive landscape.
In addition to climbing, I also went on several hikes. I found it particularly exciting that there are officially designated places in Poland where you can camp in the countryside. This means you can go on longer hikes at the weekend and spend the night in the forest along the way. There are also a number of caves in the area to explore.
In terms of social life, I was very lucky to meet many international people, some of whom were Erasmus students, but also others who live or study in Krakow independently of the exchange program. As a result, I have built up a broad international network. The students at the university are mostly of Polish origin, but among the doctoral students there are many from South Asia, and I met some very nice people from India and Iran.
5. Conclusion
I take an incredible amount from my time in Krakow, both professionally and personally. On the one hand, I was able to work on exactly the research project I was interested in and gain valuable experience in the field of machine learning and detector physics. On the other hand, I started learning Polish and immersed myself in the culture.
I have not regretted the decision to go to Poland for a second, on the contrary: I am happier here than in any other place I have lived before. So much so that I have decided to stay in Krakow for a while after I graduate.
I can recommend an Erasmus+ internship without reservation, not only to learn something new professionally, but also to step out of your comfort zone, gain new perspectives and make international contacts. You learn a lot in a very short time when you suddenly move to another country with a different language where you hardly know anyone. Especially with regard to your own career, such a stay abroad can be enormously valuable, and this experience definitely looks good on your CV.
Writing my Master’s Thesis at the UCL
- Environmental Engineering M.Sc.
- United Kingdom, London
- University College London
- 09/2024 – 03/2025
Application
In January 2024, I applied to AVT (Aachener Verfahrenstechnik) at RWTH for an external master’s thesis at University College London (UCL). The AVT offers not only Erasmus places for process engineering students, but also external master’s theses at partner universities. I was particularly interested in topics related to fuel cells and water electrolysis, and looking through the partner universities I found out that I could combine research in this field with living in one of my favourite cities in Europe! After my successful application to AVT, I was put in contact with the exchange student coordinator at UCL’s Department of Chemical Engineering to find a topic and a supervisor. From UCL side, I had to apply as an undergraduate exchange student to be part of the official exchange student programme, even though I wouldn’t be taking any courses but would be working full-time in the labs. For this application I had to take an IELTS language test and submit a letter of recommendation, which was provided by the Erasmus team at AVT. After an online interview with one of the Associate Professors of the Electrochemical Innovation Lab (EIL), I decided on a preliminary topic for the thesis. Once these steps were completed, I was able to apply for my Erasmus+ internship grant and my UK visa.
Accomodation & Cost of Living
As much as I love London, finding affordable accommodation can be challenging. UCL offers accommodation in the university’s halls to first year and exchange students. Accommodation in the halls is much more expensive than renting a room in Aachen, but still a good price for London. As I had already lived in London for an exchange semester during my undergraduate degree, I was not eligible for halls accommodation and spent my first two weeks in London looking for private accommodation. Especially in September a lot of people are on the lookout for a room as the university year is just starting. For my search I used Facebook groups and a website called Spareroom. Often rooms can only be rented on a yearly basis and for council tax reasons it is easiest for students to find accommodation in shared flats with other students. As well as finding rooms to rent, you can also use Spareroom to get in touch with other people who are looking for rooms. I went to a few flat viewings with a group of UCL students I had met through Spareroom. We didn’t end up renting together, but we remained friends for the rest of my time in London. The room I rented in the end was a six-month sublet in Camden and cost £950 a month. The area was great to live in (my favourite spot is Regents Canal) and I was spared many hot, stuffy and expensive tube rides as I could take the bus to UCL ☺️
Not only the rent, but the cost of living in general is a lot higher than in Aachen. Public transport is expensive, especially the tube if you use it regularly at peak times. Food in the UCL cantine costs ~£6 per meal (I always meal prepped as most of the students did). Also, there was a Lidl close to UCL where I usually did my shopping as the food is very reasonably priced there. There is an endless amount of things to do in a city like London. While eating out or going to the pubs will cost you a small fortune there are also things that can be done for free, as for example many of the museums. I can recommend the British museum which is just down the road from UCL, making it possible to visit the Rosetta stone during a lunch break.
Master’s Thesis in the EIL Labs
On a day-to-day basis, I arrived at UCL around 9am and started working in the EIL labs. Mostly PhD students and research fellows work in the EIL labs and from the beginning I was part of the team and shared an office with the group. Compared to my previous research experience in AVT, I worked much more independently with different PhD students helping me where my research overlapped with theirs. I had a lot of freedom in where to go with my Master’s thesis, which was a very valuable experience, but also challenging at times. The labs and the work were sometimes a little less structured than I was used to in Aachen. However, everyone there was very helpful, especially in the first few weeks and when I was collecting my equipment, which was very valuable. Even though I was there for a Master’s thesis, I was treated like a PhD student, with bi-weekly meetings with one of the academic leaders of the group. I was not the only international visiting the EIL labs, there were two PhD students on a six-month visit for the same period as my Master’s thesis. Towards the end of my stay, another Masters student joined the EIL group for a research project. Overall, I felt very welcome in the group and even though I was the only one doing a Master’s thesis, it felt very easy to connect and spend time with the others both inside and outside of the labs.
Life at UCL & in London
Needless to say, living in London is amazing! Over the course of my Master’s thesis I always took the weekends oft to enjoy the city. There is so much to do and even though I have spent 6 months doing all the touristy and not so touristy stuff, I still have things on my list. One of my favourite activities in London is to just walk around the streets or drive around in the red double decker busses as there is always something interesting to see.
Something I particularly enjoyed about studying at UCL is the societies. UCL has a very vibrant student community, and everyone can be part of it. When I went to the society fair at the beginning of my stay, I learned that there is a society for every hobby imaginable (ranging from a Taylor Swift Society to the Bubble Tea Society). I decided to join the Dance Society, the Hiking Society and the Photography Society (joining is very easy, you just need to pay ~£10 at the beginning of the semester to become a member). Joining the societies meant my calendar was full of social events from week one, but of course it took a bit longer to actually get to know the people in the societies. The society I enjoyed the most in the end was the Photography Society. How often do you get the chance to meet up with models (students from the modelling society) in a park in the middle of London and do a spring photo shoot as an amateur photographer?
Conclusion
The past six months have been incredibly intense, full of visits from old friends while making new friends. I had a steep learning curve academically through working more independently than I have before but also got the chance to dive into a more creative world through the societies and meet people who study something completely different from me. All of this in the setting of a huge and chaotic, yet also very beautiful city. Even though it took a lot of time to prepare and was an expensive time abroad, I am very glad I spent these six months in London ♡
Master Thesis in Finland in Winter – Is That Something for You?
- Product Development M.Sc.
- Finland, Oulu
- Oulun Yliopisto
- 11/2024 – 05/2025
Hello,
my name is Eileen, and I’d like to tell you a bit about my time here in Finland and hopefully inspire you to come and experience Finnish nature during wintertime.
I wanted to write my Master’s thesis in Oulu because my Finnish boyfriend lives and works there. I had already visited Oulu a few times during different seasons. Typically, the snowy season lasts from around November to May, but of course, this can vary quite a bit from year to year. Winters here are much darker and colder than in Germany, but I guess that doesn’t surprise anyone. It can get extremely cold – temperatures of -20°C are quite common in Oulu, since it’s only about 200 km south of the Arctic Circle. This means that in December, the sun barely rises at all, but on clear days, you can sometimes see a beautiful pink sky in the late afternoon.
I used to think I didn’t like winter, but winter in Oulu is very different compared to North Rhine-Westphalia. There are many fun winter activities like ice skating, skiing, and of course: sauna, which make this season really enjoyable. Most Finnish schools have ice rinks in winter that are free to use – you just need your own skates. Oulu also has many cross-country skiing trails that are maintained by the city. These are free to use and usually run through the forest. One side of the trail is prepared for classic skiing, and the rest can be used for skate skiing. I believe it’s also possible to rent skis, although I haven’t tried that yet. Another good option is to check out Finland’s version of eBay, called Tori, for used equipment. If you’re into downhill skiing, there are several ski centers a few hours away from Oulu that you can reach by car. Having a car in winter can be very useful. Finnish cars usually have studded winter tires, and parking spots often have outlets to plug in car heaters that warm up the engine before you drive. It is possible to bring your own car to Finland, but you should feel confident driving in winter conditions and make sure to get proper Finnish winter tires.
There are a lot of saunas in Finland, and it’s very likely that your apartment building will have a shared sauna that you can book. If not, going to a swimming hall is a good and affordable alternative – the sauna is usually included in the entrance fee. There are also river saunas where you can try ice swimming! If you’re more into indoor activities, Oulu also has climbing gyms and a trampoline hall. And of course, winter is the season to hunt for the Northern Lights, especially from November to March. They can be stunning, but you might have to wait a few weeks for clear skies. You can use a Northern Lights app to track when and where they might appear. Do not be disappointed, they always look brighter in pictures than in real life. Oulu also has an ice hockey team called Kärpät, and going to a game is definitely worth it! There are many beautiful national parks you can visit, such as the Little Bear’s Trail, which is lovely year-round but gets crowded on summer weekends because it’s the most popular trail in Finland. A bit closer to Oulu is Syöte National Park, which is easier to reach by car, though I think buses are available too. Many national parks have free huts where you can sleep, and you can check the maps on the Luontoon website. Depending on your route, it can be helpful to have snowshoes for winter hiking, or you can use skis if you have them.
Public transportation in Oulu is available, but the city also maintains its bike lanes year-round, so if you’re comfortable biking in the snow – as many Finns are – you can do that too. You can even get winter tires for your bike for better grip.
There aren’t many big cities near Oulu, but you can take a train north to Rovaniemi to visit Santa Claus. A few hours south by train is Tampere, a large city by Finnish standards. You can also visit the Ranua Zoo, which has many animals native to Finland.
Oulu itself has only a few sights in the city center, and half a day is enough to see them all (such as the policeman statue, the market hall, the main church, the free city museum, and the harbor). In winter, you can even walk on the frozen Baltic Sea, which connects some of the islands to the mainland. At the moment many sights are under construction, because Oulu is will be the European Capital of Culture of 2026.
Culture
The Finnish people I’ve met so far have been very open and friendly. While people in Nordic countries are often said to be more reserved – which is true to some extent – joining a sports club is a great way to meet locals. I joined the fencing club in Oulu, and they’ve been super friendly and welcoming, they also welcome beginners.
In general, people here are more relaxed than in Germany, and you usually thank the staff when leaving a store, which I really like. Because of the long dark winters, alcohol consumption is more strictly regulated than in Germany and also more expensive. Beer and low-alcohol drinks can be bought in supermarkets before 9 p.m., but for stronger alcohol, you have to go to a special store.
Language
No need to speak Finnish at all – English of course is enough here in Finland!
Living Costs and Organization
I sent my CV and a cover letter to the University of Oulu to find a thesis position in the mechanical engineering department. One of the professors then set up an online interview, and that was all I needed for the application process. After that, I searched for a supervising institute at RWTH, which was very easy and didn’t take much time.
Living in Finland is more expensive than in Germany, especially if you want to eat out. However, the University of Oulu pays you for writing your thesis there. In addition, you can apply for an Erasmus Traineeship Scholarship. You should apply for Erasmus at least six weeks before your internship starts.
The University of Oulu has a website for foreign workers that explains all the organizational steps you need to take – you can use this even if you’re writing your thesis for a company. However, it might not be possible to write your thesis for a company at all, depending on whether you can find a supervising institute at RWTH.
Flying or Taking the Train?
I usually fly to Finland, because taking the train is very time-consuming, just as expensive as flying, and quite exhausting. But if you have time, it could be a nice experience: you can go by train to Copenhagen from Hamburg, then on to Stockholm, and take a ferry to Finland (from Stockholm or Uppsala). This is a great way to avoid flying and see some cities on the way. There are also night trains you can take in Denmark or Sweden.
When I fly, I usually go to Helsinki, and from there, I either take the train (possibly a night train) or a domestic flight to Oulu. From Oulu airport, you can take a bus or taxi into the city. In winter, flying to Rovaniemi or Kittilä and taking the train from there to Oulu might also be a good option. You can check train schedules on the Finnish railway website [VR].
Final Thoughts
I would definitely recommend Finland as a destination for your Master’s thesis if you enjoy winter sports, hiking, and nature – and if you’re confident that you can make friends here, for example through sports clubs or among Erasmus students at the university. Otherwise, the long and dark winters might be difficult to enjoy.
My experiences at Volvo Technology
- Energy Engineering M.Sc.
- Sweden, Göteborg
- Volvo Technology
- 10/2024 – 05/2025
Hello, my name is Marc. I am a German studying Master Energy Engineering at RWTH Aachen University, Germany, and participated in a research stay funded by the Erasmus+ Internship program during my master’s thesis at Volvo Technology – one of the most Swedish companies imaginable – in the second largest city Göteborg, Sweden. Getting this opportunity, to work on practical research in a company, was very difficult and almost did not work out. I started applying more than a year ahead, but this was way too early for most cases. In Sweden, there are no mandatory internships of up to 6 months; Swedish students gain practical experience during their summer break. Yes, you heard right: all students have a 2-3 month study-free period during the summer, without the need to prepare for exams, since they finish them before Midsommar (the summer solstice). Their internship culture comes from the fact that students do not receive their student funding during vacation, so many rely on summer jobs to survive financially until the next study period. Because internships are limited to these three months, companies don’t know about longer internships, especially not outside this period, as is common in Germany. Another aspect is that thesis work usually starts in January, as Swedish studies are separated into four periods, and are mainly carried out in groups of two—eliminating most chances if you want to start according to the German semester dates and alone. However, you would not be reading this if I hadn’t made it despite the low chances. I applied a lot, sent unsolicited applications to companies, connected with people on LinkedIn, and sent dozens of requests for an internship with the opportunity to follow up with a master’s thesis, which is usually the catch in Germany. The position was acquired via an unsolicited application to an industrial PhD student in cooperation between Chalmers University of Technology and Volvo Group, which led to the position at Volvo Technology. Other research internships would have been possible at Chalmers, but the research topic and work environment at Volvo were the best option.
Finding a suitable accommodation without being registered as a Swedish student brings further problems, since you are not eligible for student accommodations. Some shared living opportunities always exist but are highly requested and not available in sufficient quantity. Some international students even live in hotels or cabins for the first year. In Swedish metropolitan areas, housing agencies require you to be in the queue for several years. Even colleagues at my workplace, who were in the queue for up to three years, were not able to find suitable accommodation (for their living standard) and ended up buying instead. I found mine with a lot of luck on Facebook (which is widely used in Scandinavia and also serves as an online marketplace and for international exchange). The accommodation had two rooms, one bedroom, and one living room/kitchen. The monthly costs were approximately €450 per person, with all additional costs included. I lived there with my girlfriend, who also studied at Göteborg University. For grocery shopping, I highly recommend using “Too Good To Go,” which offers a full bag of vegetables close to expiration for under €5—this saves money since vegetables and fruits are noticeably more expensive compared to Germany. Monthly expenses for groceries were roughly €200 per person, including all food and household costs and eating out every two weeks. Since the canteen at Chalmers was €6 (student) or €8 (visitor), and at Volvo Group €10, I decided to always prepare my own food, which is popular in Sweden. There are always spaces with microwaves and cutlery. For transportation, you can use rental bikes for €30 per year (Nextbike/Sty&Ställ). Since I needed to get to the other side of the harbor to Göteborg Lundby, I bought a tram ticket, which was €60 (student) or €75 (non-student) per month. Even though I was a student, I couldn’t use the student discount for many occasions, since in Sweden your student status is verified by a “Mecenat” app account issued by a Swedish university, which I did not have.
Everyday life during the research stay was a 40-hour workweek, starting at 9:00 and ending at 17:00. It is common to have a one-hour lunch break at 11:00, which I always spent with coworkers. Since I started in October, I was the only student at the company until January, when two other thesis workers joined, as is usual during this time. From Volvo, I received a laptop for my research work, which was mainly self-guided and supervised by weekly meetings with my supervisor. I highly enjoyed short coffee breaks with colleagues around 14:00-15:00, called “fika,” to discuss technical topics or daily life. There was one 30-minute fixed slot per week where the whole department met, and one colleague always brought sweet pastries or cake. The department worked great as a team, and I think this weekly contact, as well as spontaneous meetings on other days, helps with teambuilding. I also enjoyed that Volvo Group is an international environment, and you can get into contact with everyone on a casual basis since in Sweden you always call people by their first name; titles and positions do not mainly define your personality.
During the winter, I came home from work when it was already dark, but there are many options available. Monthly sports membership at “Fysiken” cost €33 per month (3-month period) for students, including gym, courses, team play, and climbing/bouldering. I used to go every second day and made friends during climbing and basketball. It seems much easier to make international friends, as Swedish students usually already have their friend groups. Getting into those groups takes time and is comparable to making friends in Germany. With friends found that way, at the company or through international university programs such as ESN, you will definitely find people to spend time with—though more likely internationals who will leave after six months. However, Göteborg is a city where you can spend your time at many places, such as bars with after-work discounts and pub quizzes, museums, or at the ice hockey arena watching “Frölunda HC.” Around February, you will get home when it is still bright outside and can spend the sunset at famous places such as “Skansen Kronan.” On weekends, I recommend visiting the local historical
amusement park “Liseberg,” the islands in the archipelago near Gothenburg, one of the beaches, or hiking around lakes such as “Delsjön.” Trips around Sweden to Stockholm, Malmö, Helsingborg, or even Oslo in Norway are easy to do on a small budget. ESN also offered a one-week trip to Swedish Lapland, which everyone recommended to me, but I was quite
occupied by research work and also took vacation to visit my family over Christmas.
In conclusion, I liked Swedish culture before, and this trip increased its attraction. Sometimes it was tough to receive the same rights as locals, since you always need digital proof such as Swedish student status (“Mecenat”). For foreigners, it is also impossible to buy at a local food market or farm since “Swish,” the Swedish version of PayPal for payment, requires a Coordination Number for a Swedish ID, a Swedish bank account, and BankID. There are also several special days with traditions such as St. Lucia around Christmas, Valborg/Walpurgis Night and Swedish National Day in spring, and Midsommar in summer. However, my girlfriend and I decided to continue our time in Sweden and enjoy one or more summers at the coast and in nature, where Sweden has much to offer.
Writing my Master Thesis in Trondheim
- Chemistry M. Sc.
- Norway, Trondheim
- Norges Teknisk-Naturvitenskapelige Universitet
- 07/2024 – 01/2025
Preparations
People often ask for the reason I chose Norway: Initially, I planned to do an internship in Sweden and then return to Germany for my thesis. Unfortunately, I lost contact to my Swedish prof, and as time was running out, I finished all required internships in Germany. However, I struggled to find a suitable thesis topic, so I decided to write it externally, including universities from countries in Ireland and Scandinavia in my search. I wanted to improve my English skills and also experience a place full of nature I have never been to before. As the nature in Ireland, Sweden, Norway, and Finland is beautiful, I ultimately found that Norway was the best fit for me. It offered a fascinating language but still with the comfort to speak English anytime, stunning landscapes, beautiful nature, a vibrant student city, and an exciting thesis topic.
I came across the topic of my thesis by proactively reaching out to professors working in areas I found particularly intriguing. As a chemistry student, I was often dissatisfied with the specializations at my university, so learning that Norway has a strong focus on environmental chemistry caught my attention. After a response from a professor, we had a brief meeting where he introduced me to a project based within the Arctic Circle, combining environmental chemistry with fundamental research. The process of signing the OLA was incredibly slow, but once that was finalized, there was nothing standing between me and my successful thesis – well, except for one thing: accommodation.
Accommodation & Living expenses
Overall, Norway is more expensive in nearly everything, which makes sense given their higher income. Usually, it is possible for exchange students to apply for student dorms (e.g. at Moholt). Those are particularly nice because of the large student communities that make it easy to meet new people. However, since I arrived in the winter semester – when most new local and exchange students come – the dorms were fully booked. As an internship student from Europe, I wasn’t automatically eligible for housing, so I had to request dorm accommodation. Even then, priority is typically given to international students from outside Europe and those attending summer courses at NTNU.
Thus, I ended up looking through the private housing market. Luckily, I found a room in a Norwegian student’s flatshare that was subletting for the exact duration of my stay. The flatshare with 4 people was comparably affordable and with 5300 NOK (everything included) even cheaper than the dorms. My place was located near Solsiden, which wasn’t exactly close to the university, but the area was well-connected by buses. It was also closer to the city center, as Tyholt and Moholt were about a 25-minute bus ride away. Personally, I preferred cycling since it is faster, cheaper, and the terrain was less steep compared to Gløshaugen-Moholt, which was a nice bonus.
As for the general living expenses, being a vegetarian made it a bit challenging to find affordable fresh vegetables, as everything tends to be more expensive and often heavily packaged in plastic. However, you get used to the prices after a while. As someone who loves tofu, I found it difficult to find good, firm Asian-style tofu. Common supermarket chains include Rema1000, Bunnpris, and Coop Mega for cheaper options, while Kiwi and Meny are more expensive. There are also online discounts and QR codes that offer discounts on specific products, and it’s helpful to ask around in ESN groups, as they often share these codes. I also found myself visiting Asian markets, like NM Market for the best deals on rice, soy sauce, and paneer at Melon Midtbyen. In general, products with higher fat, sugar, or imported goods were about twice as expensive as in Germany. However, Norwegians tend to offer larger packaging, which can help reduce the price per unit.
Everyday life/the internship
Since I was doing my master thesis, my workload was higher compared to an average exchange student. I did miss out a bit on some activities since I was less flexible and had less free time. However, Norwegian work culture is much more chill and laid back than back in Germany. Nobody will ask you to come early and nobody cares if you leave early. Therefore, you need even more discipline to stay on track. Typical work hours in Norway are from 8am to 4pm. Afterwards, people head home for dinner. Many shops also close around 4 or 5 pm, so it’s a good idea to check their hours in advance to plan accordingly.
My thesis involved a field trip to Svalbard in mid-August, where I collected samples, spent time in the lab back In Trondheim, and then focused on writing the thesis. The working groups at NTNU are pretty small, so it is easy to get an overview but I rarely met everyone at once. Knowing how close people work together in working groups in Germany, sometimes I felt a bit lonely and disconnected from PhD or master students. However, I also enjoyed the independence I had to plan my own research, discuss it with my professor (who, by the way, dedicated a lot more time to me than the average professor in Germany would for a master’s student), and work closely with my supervisor. I also enjoyed the flexibility in how I structured my daily work and writing process.
In the evenings, I usually took part in various free-time activities including choir, anime screenings, board games, swimming, 3D printing, sewing, knitting, or baking. On weekends, I usually met up with friends, did my chores, or went on hikes and trips around the area. Sometimes, and further. With a bit of planning, you can easily bring your work with you, as many trains offer Wi-Fi! That way, you can explore places like Åndalsnes, Bergen, Finse (!!!), and more.
Free time/tips
Trondheim is a big student city, so you will find all kinds of people. While connecting with international students was quite easy, since everyone is desperate to find friends, I was more interested stepping outside the Erasmus bubble and meeting Norwegians. And the stereotype holds true: While Norwegians are friendly and somehow open to start a conversation, there can still be a sense of distance. Personally, I’ve never been the most social or chatty person, so I always struggled to form deeper connections with anyone. That said, living with Norwegians and joining Norwegian clubs really helped me engage more with locals.
Norway is known for its stunning and beautiful nature (northern lights, midnight sun, mountains, fjords, lush green forests wherever you go!) and almost all Norwegians are big sports enthusiasts. NTNU has a student organization called NTNUI, where you can sign up for various sports clubs. Its very close to what American sports teams are like. People are competitive and passionate about their activities. If you want to try something typical Norwegian: You can join a group that teaches halling, a traditional Norwegian dance, or even take up sword fighting through another separate group.
If you are not into sports, there are still many student groups you can join: As for me, I joined a group called PVV for board games and anime. In general, they have a different focus but they also offer great social activities. I also joined a choir (NTNU motettkor), conducted by one of Norway’s most famous conductors and a group of Norwegian music students. The group was a fun mix of exchange students and locals, and the conductor was incredibly motivating, making it a truly enjoyable experience. Another popular hobby in Norway is knitting, with knitting events often hosted at cafés or yarn shops. It’s a relaxing activity, especially on those cold, rainy days. I also had the chance to learn 3D printing and practice sewing at the MakeNTNU workshop, where you can book time on a machine to create whatever you like (They are getting new printers, finally!!).
Another great place that offers cool events is the student building down the road from the technical university building: Studentersamfundet. It is definitely worth a visit, as they offer concerts, talk shows, discussions, I addition to having restaurants and more.
As for Trondheim, nature is incredibly accessible. You can enjoy small walks along the coast to the fjord in Lademoen, hikes in Estenstadmarka to the southeast, or head to Bymarka to the west. In winter, Bymarka is perfect for cross-country skiing. For bigger adventures, the ESN group organizes trips to Lofoten, Lapland, and other places. Otherwise, it is advisable to form small groups and rent a car to get around, especially in winter. While many people opt for Airbnbs, I highly recommend trying the great network of cabins in Norway! NTNUI Koiene have basic cabins around Trøndelag but personally, I suggest going for the DNT cabins as they are more spacious and comfortable.
Conclusion
If you are an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys nature and want to experience a new culture during your internship or your thesis with excellent supervision and a nice work environment, I definitely recommend Norway. Not only did I gain insight into the country and its people, but I also embraced a new way of living my life while staying productive. There are plenty of opportunities and activities that allow you to connect with others. You just have to step out of your comfort zone and start engaging people!
I hope you enjoy your time here as much as I did if you choose Norway.
P.S. Yes, it does get pretty dark and depressing from November to February (Average daylight around 5h in Trondheim). But trust me, the experience alone is worth it. Plus, the midnight sun and longer days in summer make up for it!
My Internship at an Architectural Office in Vienna
- Architecture M. Sc.
- Austria, Vienna
- Jadric Architektur ZT GmbH
- 09/2024 – 11/2024
My Erasmus+ internship in Vienna was an unforgettable experience that gave me both professional growth and cultural enrichment. From the very beginning, it was a journey filled with excitement, opportunities and memorable moments.
Finding the internship was relatively straightforward. I applied online to a small architecture firm with five employees and was lucky to receive a direct offer after an online interview. The team was incredibly welcoming and the atmosphere at work was open and familiar. We always took breaks together, which helped me integrate into the group quickly and feel like a valued member of the team. Since the team was international, we spoke exclusively English at work. This not only created a collaborative and inclusive environment but also allowed me to enhance my professional English skills, especially in areas like technical terminology and day-to-day communication.
To find an accommodation in Vienna, however, was more challenging. I searched for a room to sublet via WG-Gesucht.de and found the housing market to be quite competitive, but with persistence and a bit of luck, I managed to find a room in a shared apartment. It was a beautiful old-style building in a central location, which made exploring the city easy and enjoyable. Living with three roommates added to the experience, as we often shared meals and made trips through the city. While rents in Vienna are relatively affordable, everyday living costs were slightly higher than in Germany, though prices in bars for example were similar or even slightly lower.
My everyday life revolved around the internship and exploring the city. At work, I had the opportunity to engage with a variety of tasks and learn from experienced professionals. The close-knit team created a supportive environment that allowed me to grow both creatively and technically. Outside of work, Vienna offered a wealth of cultural activities and countless opportunities for exploration. From visiting museums and historical landmarks to discovering cozy bars and cafes, there was always something to do. One common stereotype about Viennese people is that they can be at times rather unfriendly, but my experience was the opposite. I found people to be open and approachable, especially once you started a conversation. This friendliness made navigating a new city much easier and helped me feel at home.
For anyone considering an internship in Vienna, I recommend making the most of the city’s rich cultural scene. Don’t miss out on the chance to visit exhibitions and historical buildings, enjoy traditional Viennese coffee houses and relax in the many green spaces the city has to offer. Vienna is also well-connected, making it easy to take weekend trips to other parts of Austria or nearby countries.
In conclusion, my internship in Vienna was an enriching experience that I would recommend to anyone considering doing an internship abroad. The combination of professional development, cultural exposure, and personal growth made it a truly unique opportunity. If you embrace the challenges and immerse yourself in everything the city has to offer, Vienna will leave a lasting impression on you.
My Internship at the EHU Bilbao
- Biology M. Sc.
- Spain, Bilbao
- Universidad del País Vasco (UPV)/ Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea (EHU)
- 07/2024 – 09/2024
When I reached out to the Cell Communication and Transcription Lab at EHU Bilbao for a placement, I was quickly connected with my future supervisor. We arranged an online Zoom meeting, and from the start, I felt genuinely welcomed. She was incredibly helpful in organizing my stay, handling all the necessary university paperwork, and went out of her way to ensure everything was in place. It was at that moment I knew I would be well-supervised, and that this internship would be a great success.
Although the university is located far outside the city, I was advised to find accommodation in the city center for better social connections and public transportation. I found my room on Idealista, a popular platform for finding apartments in Spain. For me, finding a reasonably priced room in a shared apartment near the river was relatively easy, but knowing at least some Spanish greatly helps in communicating with landlords, who often speak only Spanish. I ended up living with a girl from Catalunya, a girl from Peru, and one from France. Two of them were students, and the other was working. We got along really well, and they made every effort to make me feel welcome and comfortable in the flat. While we didn’t spend much time together in the end, it was still nice getting to know them!
My first impression of the city was different from what I expected of a typical Spanish city. This is because Bilbao is not quite Spain—it’s the Basque Country, something I later learned is very important to acknowledge. The architecture reminded me more of Central Europe, with modern and stylish buildings. The Nervión River flowing through the city provides a contrast to the otherwise dense urban landscape, creating a special atmosphere, especially at night when the lanterns reflect off the water. I really enjoyed taking walks by the river towards the old town, chatting with friends or responding to voice messages, as there are parks and green spaces along the way. The old town (Casco Viejo) is beautiful to explore and becomes even more vibrant at night. Every day of the week, you can find people enjoying drinks and Pintxos, the Basque version of tapas. My favorite Pintxos were the mini burgers and slices of baguette topped with various salads.
Nature in Bilbao is lush and green, thanks to the high humidity and frequent rain. The surrounding hills and mountains offer excellent hiking routes with stunning scenery, such as the trails around Trapagaran. About 40 minutes from the city center by public transport, you’ll find large, beautiful beaches with breathtaking cliffs and sunsets. My favorite was Sopelana Beach, which I highly recommend for a spectacular sunset.
Because my stay coincided with exam season and the university’s semester break, there weren’t many students on campus, and the Erasmus students left a week after I arrived. However, I was part of the Happy Erasmus WhatsApp group for Bilbao, which allowed me to join their last gathering. Not knowing anyone in the city, I simply asked in the group chat if anyone was going out that night and if I could join them. A really nice Czech girl replied, and we met up with her group for a pre-party. We clicked instantly and had a fantastic night, which ended with a spontaneous swim in the sea. We went to a techno club called Sonora, which was a nice change from the usual bachata and salsa music. In general, Bilbao doesn’t have many clubs; it’s more common to go to small bars, particularly in Casco Viejo, where you can dance to loud music. If you’re looking for an experience full of partying and socializing with Erasmus students, I recommend coming during the semester when there are more activities and it’s easier to meet people. I also attended some language exchange meetings that I found on the Meetup app (which I highly recommend for meeting new people in a new city!) and created a Bumble BFF account specifically to find friends.
During my stay in Bilbao, I was eager to follow the Euro 2024 football tournament in Germany, especially in the company of others. I heard about a German bar that always showed football matches, so I went there for the Germany games. I struck up a conversation with a group of young Germans, and we immediately hit it off. They were taking a language course in Bilbao, and from then on, we watched all the games together. The bar is also worth visiting—the owner is very friendly, and you can speak German with him! While I didn’t try the food, I heard great things about it. We watched the final at a public viewing event in Parque de Doña Casilda, which culminated in Spain’s victory. I also attended the popular BBK Bilbao festival, held on a hill just outside the city. It was easy to get there by bus, and we walked back afterward. I asked in the Erasmus WhatsApp chat who was going and if I could join, as I didn’t want to go alone. Fortunately, a German guy replied, inviting me to join him and his friends. We had an amazing evening, with the highlight being dancing to Jungle’s live performance. Bilbao and the surrounding towns have a lot to offer young music lovers, with numerous street fiestas and concerts during this time of year.
I highly recommend exploring the various towns around Bilbao, such as Portugalete, Santurtzi, Getxo, and Muskiz, which offer beautiful nature and charming towns. A day trip to the stunning city of San Sebastián is also well worth it, and the bus tickets are quite affordable! You can also easily travel to Madrid, Santander, Zaragoza, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Burgos, and other cities by bus or train, and if you prefer to fly, there are plenty of low-cost options to explore all of Spain.
My academic experience was also incredibly valuable. I learned a lot of methods and concepts related to working with mammalian cells and maintaining them in culture. The atmosphere in the lab was everything I could have hoped for, helping me realize what aspects are important to me in a working environment. I made many friends and colleagues who enriched my network, and I plan to stay in touch with them. This experience made me more open to meeting new people, finding ways to connect, and getting along with them right away. I’m certain it shaped my character in ways that only an experience abroad can.
Doing a Research Internship at the UiT in Norway
- Psychology M.Sc.
- Norway, Tromsø
- University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway
- 04/2024 – 08/2024
Going abroad the second time in my life posed a challenge, yes, but a less intense one than being a volunteer in South Africa after finishing school. Hence, the whole stay (planning included) was easy going and associated with anticipation and the joy of revisiting the most beautiful country in the world.
Starting my master program at RWTH in winter 23/24, I already had everything laid out. As I wanted to go abroad during my second master semester, I started thinking about research internship possibilities when I finished my bachelor’s degree in March 2023. As my bachelor thesis supervisor was on a one-month exchange in Tromsø and spoke very highly of one professor at the UiT (The Arctic University of Norway), I asked her for connecting me to her. She did, and fortunately the professor at the UiT invited me to come to Norway and work as a research intern for her. This turned out to be the start of a fruitful, respectful and somehow deep supervisor-intern relationship. She is a very capable, very humorous and very kind person. Next to living in the far north (with its midnight sun, polar lights and spectacular hikes), she was my highlight during my whole stay.
Norway is an expensive country. Nevertheless, the German inflation made the transition rather easy. Groceries can be affordable if you know which grocery store to visit and which products to buy. My rent was a different story: For a single room in a shared flat (of eight people) in a student housing I paid 410€. This is the same amount I pay in Germany for my student apartment. On the good side, Norwegian flat mates are the most quiet and respectful people I have ever met, hence, living with eight people was pleasant.
I have adapted my lifestyle drastically. While in Germany I used to meet friends at a café or a restaurant, in Norway I never ate out. I did not party at all, as alcohol is luxurious here, and cut back on my shopping expenses. Although it seems bad, it was a refreshing and grounding experience and let me think about what I take for granted in everyday life.
During the internship I was extremely high in autonomy. My supervisor and I met every Monday noon to talk about new tasks and projects. Next to this, I was flexible regarding my working hours, working place (I switched between the institute, the UiT library and the public library in the city center) and working pace. After work, I either hit the gym or went home to play the piano. My piano teacher and I kept doing lessons via FaceTime. Taking my hobbies from Germany with me helped a lot, especially during the first few weeks, to find my rhythm.
The biggest and most meaningful project during the internship was being a co-author in a review paper we submitted to the Journal of Business & Psychology. It took us from May to August to get the data, analyze them and write the manuscript. Hopefully, the manuscript will undergo a brief review process and will be published at some point. Next to the review paper, I got a lot of insights in the publishing process and data analysis. Furthermore, I could get creative while designing a scientific poster and developing new lecture materials.
The best thing to do while in Norway is hiking. It is for free. And please, just look at the photos:
If it is raining, I enjoyed reading a lot. And that have been my last five months: Hiking, exercising, reading, baking. My family visited for two weeks, in which we went on a road trip to the Lofoten and Vesteralen islands. This vacation I will remember dearly. Of course, friends of mine visited now and then – this was a welcome disruption from everyday life. But I must admit that nowadays it is easy to stay in touch. Being 3000km away from Aachen, I learnt that deepening friendships and fostering my relationship can sometimes be easier even when apart.
I am writing this report one day prior to leaving Norway. It has been a wonderful time, helping me finding an answer to the one question that made me consider a research internship in the first place: “Do I want to do a PhD?” My answer: “Yes, but not abroad!” Additionally, I would like to say a big thank you to the Erasmus office that made my whole stay possible. Thanks for your support, organizing everything neatlessly and being reliable throughout the whole stay.
My experiences at Tsinghua University
- Business Administration and Engineering: Mechanical Engineering M.Sc
- China (VR), Beijing (Peking)
- Tsinghua University
- 09/2023 – 07/2024
Before the stay
Course Planning: It is recommended to get an overview of the selectable courses at Tsinghua University, depending on the respective department, such as Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Energy & Power Engineering, and Automotive Engineering. Additionally, it is strongly advised to clarify which classes are eligible for acknowledgment – both Aachen courses at Tsinghua University and Tsinghua courses at RWTH Aachen. One must be cautious about course acknowledgements between Tsinghua University and RWTH Aachen. Based on past experiences, it is generally more challenging to get Aachen courses acknowledged at Tsinghua University than the reverse. This discrepancy necessitates early communication with both institutions. Students should verify which Tsinghua courses will be recognized for credit upon return.
Visa: After receiving the Tsinghua University acceptance letter confirming your stay abroad, a visa appointment should be made as soon as possible. It is likely that the Tsinghua University acceptance letter may arrive quite late. In the past, it was possible to make appointments at both the Düsseldorf Visa Centre and the Frankfurt/Main Visa Centre. Currently, according to my information, the Düsseldorf Visa Centre is closed. If time before departure to China is short, it is recommended to visit the Frankfurt/Main Visa Centre and pick up the visa personally. This way, it is possible to receive the visa within approximately 3-5 days, based on 2023 information. The visa application process involves filling out a detailed online form prior to the appointment. It is recommended to gather all necessary documents, including the acceptance letter, passport (which is valid for the whole stay plus six months, that is, at least 18 months), possibly recent photographs, before beginning the application. Completing this step efficiently can prevent unnecessary delays.
Health and Vaccinations: According to my GP in Germany, no extra vaccinations were needed. However, depending on your travel destinations in East Asia during the winter break in January and February, it might be recommended to receive vaccinations against typhus, hepatitis B, rabies (3-4 doses), and yellow fever. Students should consult their GP or healthcare provider in advance to ensure they are adequately prepared for any planned travel in the region. Besides, it is recommended to sign up for an international health insurance for the complete year.
Travels: It might be helpful to book a flight to Beijing about three months in advance. Possibly due to low demand for flights between Germany and China, the prices for one-way flights were generally rather low (between 350-500 Euros, depending on the booking time). For those planning a round-trip, one challenge is that flights generally can only be booked up to 365 days in advance. Given that the return flight will likely be in July, longer than a year from the outbound flight, this limitation can be an issue. One solution is to book a relatively inexpensive round-trip ticket and postpone the return flight once the return date is finalized. Some airlines offer flexible options for changing the return flight at a low cost, making this a potentially more economical option than booking two separate one-way flights.
Experience in the host country
Accommodation: Tsinghua University offers various dormitory options on campus for international students. There are three different room types available for internationals: First, single rooms with a private bathroom and a small sink (“Single Rooms”). Second, double rooms with shared bathrooms and separate bedrooms (“AB-rooms”). Third, double rooms that consist of a shared bedroom only (“Double Rooms”). The latter do not include any private bathroom or kitchen, as these are shared by the entire floor. The university is gradually renovating all Single Rooms, converting them into Double Rooms. Consequently, the likelihood of securing a Single Room or AB-room will steadily decrease over time. The 2023/24 Aachen cohort was the first to receive Double Rooms instead of Single Rooms.
Most of the 2023/24 Aachen cohort lived in Zijing Building 23, with a few students placed in Building 19 or Building 6. Buildings 6, 22, and 23 are recommended, if possible, as these are relatively newly renovated buildings.
In general, life in the dormitories is communal, with shared spaces like bathrooms and kitchens (depending on the room type). This setup encourages interaction among students, fostering a sense of community. However, it also requires some adjustment, particularly for those used to more privacy.
Dining and Food: Tsinghua University has a lot of dining halls on campus, offering a great variety of food options with a very high quality. The meals are very affordable (normally between 0,80 Euros – 3,00 Euros) and cater to diverse tastes, with a mix of Chinese cuisine and many international options. For those who prefer cooking, some dormitories have shared kitchens where students can prepare their own meals. The quality of the canteens, however, are outstanding for college food.
Off-campus, the Haidian district offers numerous restaurants and food stalls, where students can explore local Beijing cuisine. Street food is also popular and provides a quick and inexpensive way to enjoy traditional Chinese snacks.
Extracurricular Activities: Tsinghua University is known for its vibrant campus life. There are numerous clubs and societies catering to various interests, including sports, arts, music, and technology. For international students, joining these clubs is a great way to meet new people, practice language skills, and immerse in Chinese culture.
Sports facilities at Tsinghua are top-notch, with options for basketball, soccer, swimming, tennis, and more – all of them quite close to most of the international dorms (Zijing 18-23). The university encourages students to stay active, and many participate in regular sports activities. The high-end on-campus gym and fitness centers are also popular among students.
Cultural activities are abundant, with events such as traditional Chinese festivals and holidays, art exhibitions, and extraordinary performances regularly held on campus. Tsinghua’s proximity to cultural landmarks in Beijing also makes it easy for students to explore the city’s rich history during weekends or holidays.
Transportation: Getting around Tsinghua University is convenient, as the campus is well-connected by public transport. Bicycles (especially Blue Bikes from HelloBike) are a popular mode of transportation among students, as the campus is large, and cycling is often the quickest way to get to classes or dining halls. For longer trips, the Beijing subway system is easily accessible from the university, providing a reliable and efficient way to explore the city.
Challenges and Adaptation: For international students, adapting to life at Tsinghua can be both exciting and challenging. The language barrier and cultural differences may initially pose difficulties, but the university offers support services, including language classes and international student offices, to help ease the transition. The campus community is generally welcoming, and many Chinese students are happy and eager to practice their English and learn about other cultures, which can make integration easier.
Daily life at Tsinghua University is dynamic and diverse, offering a mix of academic rigor, cultural experiences, and social engagement. While the challenges of studying at one of China’s top universities can be demanding, the opportunities for personal growth and cultural exchange make it a rewarding experience for both local and international students. Whether through academics, campus life, or exploring Beijing, students at Tsinghua have the chance to engage deeply with both their studies and the rich cultural environment surrounding them.
Experience at the host institution
Academic Life: In our case, classes typically started at 9:00 AM in the first semester. The university offers a wide range of courses across its 21 schools and 59 departments. For international students, classes might vary depending on the department and program, but the workload is generally not too demanding, but quite extensive. Students often attend lectures, participate in group discussions, and engage in research projects. The grading in general is quite fair and benevolent.
Coursework at Tsinghua is challenging, with high expectations from professors. However, the university provides ample resources to support students, including libraries, research facilities, and academic advisors. International students may find the Chinese language barrier challenging at times, though many courses are offered in English, particularly in graduate programs.
Culture at Tsinghua: Tsinghua University provides a rich array of cultural opportunities that allow students to immerse themselves in Chinese history, arts, and traditions. The university regularly hosts cultural events such as Chinese music performances, traditional dance showcases, and art exhibitions that celebrate the country’s heritage. Students can explore Tsinghua’s and Beijing’s renowned museums (Tsinghua has got two of them), participate in traditional arts and crafts workshops, and attend festivals like Chinese New Year, the Mid-Autumn Festival, the Moon Festival, or the Dragonboat Festival which are celebrated with great enthusiasm on campus. Tsinghua’s proximity to cultural landmarks, such as the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace, also offers students a chance to delve deeper into China’s historical treasures. Furthermore, engaging with Chinese students through clubs, sports, music, social events, and collaborative projects provides invaluable insights into contemporary Chinese culture and customs. These interactions foster cross-cultural friendships, where international students can learn directly from their peers about local traditions, cuisine, language, and daily life, enriching their overall experience at Tsinghua.
10 tips for new students at Tsinghua University on how to make the most of a one-year stay:
1. Explore Beijing’s Cultural Heritage: Take advantage of Tsinghua’s location in Beijing by visiting iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Summer Palace, and the Temple of Heaven. These historical sites offer a deep dive into Chinese culture and history.
2. Participate in Campus Festivals and Events: Engage in traditional Chinese festivals like Mid-Autumn Festival celebration on campus. These events provide a unique cultural experience and an opportunity to bond with fellow students.
3. Attend Cultural Performances: Tsinghua hosts various cultural events, including Chinese opera, (traditional Chinese) music concerts, and dance performances. These are great opportunities to experience traditional and modern Chinese arts firsthand.
4. Visit Local Markets and Try Chinese Cuisine: Explore Beijing’s and other cities’ local markets. In Beijing, the Silk Market and the Pearl Market are highly recommended, if you are interested in bargaining. Also, be adventurous with Chinese cuisine by trying local dishes such as Peking duck, hotpot, and dumplings.
5. Explore China Beyond Beijing: Plan trips to other parts of China during breaks. Visit cities like Shanghai, Xi’an, Qingdao, or Chengdu to experience the diversity of China’s landscapes, history, and culture.
6. Engage with Chinese Students: Building friendships with local students is invaluable. Join language exchange programs, participate in group projects, or simply hang out at campus cafes to foster these connections and gain deeper insights into Chinese culture.
7. Join a Student Club or Organization: Tsinghua has a wide range of student clubs, from sports across arts to technology. Joining a club is a great way to meet new people, develop new skills, and immerse yourself in campus life.
8. Learn Mandarin: While many courses are offered in English, learning some Mandarin will enhance your experience and make daily life easier. The university offers language courses, and practicing with local students will definitely accelerate your learning.
9. Take Advantage of Tsinghua’s Academic Resources: Make use of the university’s libraries, research facilities, and academic lectures. Attend guest lectures by prominent scholars and leaders from various fields to broaden your knowledge.
10. Stay Active and Use Campus Facilities: Tsinghua has excellent sports facilities, including gyms, swimming pools (inside and outside), and sports fields. Regular physical activity can help you stay healthy and relieve stress during your stay.
What added value did the stay have for my studies/career prospects?
A stay at Tsinghua University significantly enhanced my studies and career prospects in several ways.
Academic Excellence: Tsinghua University is renowned for its high academic standards and rigorous programs, especially in fields like engineering, technology, and business. The exposure to cutting-edge research, advanced coursework, a high focus on teamwork, and a global academic environment deepened my knowledge and skills in my field of study. This academic rigor might be highly regarded by employers and can set one apart in competitive job markets.
Language and Cultural Skills: Learning Mandarin and immersing myself in Chinese culture has been a big benefit, especially if one intends to work in industries or companies that have strong ties to China. Proficiency in Mandarin and an understanding of Chinese business practices can make someone a valuable asset to multinational companies or organizations operating in China.
Global Perspective: Studying at one of China’s top universities provides a unique international experience. It allowed me to gain insights into China’s rapidly growing economy, technological advancements, and global influence. This international exposure can make one more adaptable and culturally aware, qualities that might be increasingly valued in today’s globalized world.
Problem-Solving and Adaptability: Living and studying in a new country requires adaptability and resilience. The challenges I overcame during my time at Tsinghua, whether related to academics, language, or cultural issues, helped me to develop problem-solving skills and the ability to thrive in diverse environments. These are qualities that might be valued by employers in any industry.
Career Opportunities in China: China’s economy continues to grow, and having experience at a Chinese university like Tsinghua can open up career opportunities within China or with Chinese companies abroad. Being part of the Tsinghua alumni network can also provide valuable career opportunities.
Networking Opportunities: Tsinghua University attracts some of the brightest minds from China and around the world, offering an excellent opportunity to build a global professional network. The connections you make with fellow students, faculty, and industry professionals can open doors to future collaborations, job opportunities, and mentorship.
In summary, your stay at Tsinghua University not only enriches your academic background but also equips you with valuable skills, global perspectives, and professional networks that can significantly boost your future life both in China and internationally.
To what extent does my stay abroad have a sustainable character? To what extent could the general public also benefit from my personal experience?
My stay abroad at Tsinghua University has a sustainable character in both environmental and social aspects, with potential benefits that extend beyond my personal experience. By immersing myself in China’s approach to sustainability and environmental practices, particularly in areas like energy, engineering, and electromobility, I have gained valuable insights into how we can implement more sustainable solutions in our own communities. For example, learning about cutting-edge renewable energy technologies and urban sustainability initiatives at Tsinghua and in Beijing, especially regarding electromobility and public transport, allows me to bring back knowledge that can be applied to projects aimed at reducing environmental impact and promoting greener practices in my home country. This might contribute to a more sustainable future by helping to develop solutions that minimize resource consumption, lower emissions, and promote long-term environmental health.
On a social and cultural level, the public might benefit from my experiences through the sharing of cultural knowledge and perspectives. By engaging with local communities and sharing my experiences, I can help foster greater cross-cultural understanding and empathy, which is crucial in an increasingly globalized and polarized world. This cultural exchange can also lead to stronger social bonds and collaboration between different communities, promoting peace and mutual respect.
Emotionally, the empathy and cultural sensitivity I have developed through this experience allow me to better relate to people from diverse backgrounds, which can positively influence my interactions with others. This emotional experience can help in creating more inclusive and supportive environments, whether in the workplace or in the community.
Financially, the skills and knowledge I have gained might lead to more effective and innovative approaches in my field, which could translate into economic benefits. For example, by applying sustainable engineering practices learned, I can contribute to cost-saving measures and resource efficiency in projects, which benefits not only companies but also society as a whole by reducing environmental costs and promoting sustainable growth.
In summary, my stay at Tsinghua University allows me to bring back knowledge and practices that contribute to environmental sustainability, while also fostering social and cultural benefits for the public. By sharing my experiences and applying what I have learned, I can help create a more sustainable, inclusive, and interconnected society.
