Academic Mobility at THWS: an unforgettable studying experience in Germany

Studying abroad is not just an opportunity to gain new knowledge, but also a chance to immerse yourself in a different culture, broaden your horizons and change your life.Anna Burmistrova, a master's student at the HSE GSB “‘E-Business and Digital Innovations” program shares her experience of academic mobility at Technische Hochschule Würzburg-Schweinfurt (THWS) in Germany.

Why THWS?

The choice of THWS was a conscious one. Firstly, the curriculum of the programme perfectly suited my interests and complemented my specialization at GSB. Secondly, Germany has always beckoned me with its culture, history, and the opportunity to improve my German language skills. However, preparing for the trip turned out to be a difficult stage. Paperwork, visas and bureaucratic issues required a lot of time and patience. It was especially difficult to organize payment for the hostel from Russia. My advice to future participants of exchange programmes: start preparing as early as possible to avoid unnecessary stress.

 

First impressions: Würzburg and THWS

Würzburg is a small but incredibly cozy city with a rich history and stunning architecture. THWS impressed me with its modern and well-equipped university. Adapting to the new environment was easy thanks to the friendly community of international students. We participated in various activities, met new people and explored the city together.

 

Peculiarities of THWS education

Studing at THWS was different from the usual format at GSB. The groups were small - about 10 people, which created a chamber atmosphere and allowed lecturers to pay attention to each student. Classes were held both face-to-face and online, which gave flexibility in time scheduling. The German instructors emphasised structure and interactivity, which helped students to better absorb the material. Grades were based on projects and tests, making the learning process more dynamic.

 

Life beyond study

One of the main benefits of studying as an exchange student was having free time. I was able to travel around Europe and visit over 8 countries including Portugal, Italy, Austria and the Czech Republic. The Christmas fairs in Germany, the streets of Prague and the nature of Portugal left unforgettable impressions. These moments became vivid memories that I will treasure for years to come.

 

What I learnt

Academic mobility is not only about learning, but also about personal growth. I improved my English communication skills, learnt the basics of German and became more confident. This experience has taught me to be independent, to cope with difficulties and to be open to new opportunities.

Conclusion

Studying abroad is a unique and life-changing experience. It is a chance to see the world, experience new cultures and understand yourself better. If you are hesitant to go or not, my advice is to not miss this opportunity. It is an adventure that you will remember with warmth and gratitude.

 

Advice to prospective students

Start preparing early, be open to new things and don't be afraid of challenges. Academic mobility is an experience that is worth all the effort. Go on, to new horizons!