Jia-Yu Chen
College of Engineering
“I have always wanted to study in Germany, known for their fantastic automobile industry and infrastructure. Having known that Germany is renowned for their research and industrial practice, I wanted to challenge myself to see how I might handle their education and research system.
Coming into my German research program, I found myself learning in an area completely brand new to me, one with which I had no prior experience working in. The field of acoustics is very intricate, and so I greatly appreciated my supervisor’s patient efforts to show me the ropes. Working alongside other German bachelor students, I found myself more motivated when performing my research, especially during the initiation phase when everything still felt so ambiguous. The pace was overall easy to work with, and I admired the other researcher’s dedication to the field. Nowadays, I feel as though I have broadened my academic horizon, and I want to spend more time dedicated to my interest in the semiconductor industry.
On a more general note to the study abroad experience, I was certainly surprised by a few things. For starters, the intensity of the German education system. The students have four months to study, followed by two months for their final exams. Secondly, I enjoyed the prominent biking culture. Students studying in Aachen may not have a car, but they definitely have a bike. Finally, I truly enjoyed how both cheap, and fulfilling the food was in Germany. What surprised me the most was their train system. While Germany is known for its impressive infrastructure, I did have to watch for delays and cancellations when it came to my travel plans.
Speaking to the others I met on my program, I adored each and every person. They were beyond kind, and we became quick friends. Throughout the entirety of the research program, we all had loads of fun traveling alongside one another.
Another significant point of mention is my first-generation student status, which shaped my study abroad experience in its entirety. I approached it with excitement, but also uncertainty. Without family guidance, I had to navigate applications, finances, and cultural adjustment on my own, which pushed me to become more independent and resourceful. At the same time, my identity built me a deeper appreciation for the opportunity to represent first-gen students abroad.
The First-Gen Education Abroad Scholarship made this journey possible by reducing financial stress and allowing me to fully focus on academics and cultural immersion. Instead of worrying about expenses, I was able to engage deeply with my courses, connect with peers, and embrace new perspectives. Knowing the scholarship was created for students like me allowed me to feel supported and encouraged. I returned with greater confidence, a global outlook, and motivation to help other first-gen students pursue similar opportunities.
All in all, studying abroad is a great opportunity for those who not only want to advance in their studies, but make friends along the way.”
