Ella Waddy from Curtin University in Perth is a double major in electrical engineering and physics and chose to study abroad because she wanted to take classes that weren’t offered at her home university. ‘I have always been fascinated by the aerospace industry but haven't been able to directly study it, so, this was a golden opportunity and one of the primary reasons for selecting HAW Hamburg. My aerospace classes are in English and transfer back as electives. Just perfect!’
This isn’t Ella’s first visit to Germany, as she travelled with family to Europe a few years ago. ’I knew that I wanted to revisit the country and study here as well. I love the food, the architecture, the language and of course the people, so I knew that I wanted to come back! I really wanted to be immersed in a place where I could learn another language and experience all that Europe has to offer. The reciprocal exchange programme between HAW Hamburg and Curtin made it easy to arrange.’
Jennifer Aldana Velasquez from Griffith University in Queensland is treating herself to a semester abroad and some real student life. ‘Since I started my studies, I have been working full time and studying part time. I decided to study aboard as I wanted to get out of my routine and basically, enjoy the student life that I haven't had before. Study abroad is a great example of how I can focus on my studies and invest in my career at the same time.’
The accounting student is taking lots of finance and accounting classes in Hamburg as part of the international business programme. ‘Australia’s geographical location has incredible advantages for the country and Australians, but it also keeps us in a " bubble". Being exposed to other economies, systems, cultures, food and lifestyle allows us to understand others better and use the experience for our personal lives and careers. Also, teaching at HAW Hamburg implements practical experience which allows students to apply knowledge. I am expecting more interactions with professors and classmates, and I would like to analyse businesses worldwide from the accounting perspective.’
All three students are looking forward to the possibilities of travelling during their semester in Hamburg. Not just within Germany but also into neighbouring countries. All three agree with Brian, when he says, ‘During a previous trip to Germany and Europe, I was truly captivated by the rich cultural history and atmosphere which contrasts with back home. It left a lasting impression. Germany’s central location in Europe makes it an ideal base for traveling to nearby countries, allowing you to explore even more cultures.’ Ella not only hopes to improve her German with the goal of being able to hold conversations by the end of the semester but to also fulfil a dream. ‘I am a competitive rower, so I am really looking forward to being able to watch and compete in some of the big races held in Europe that I've only been able to see online!’
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Text & photo: Ingrid Weatherall
