München bound

Being able to study overseas has been something I’ve wanted to do since I started my degree. I applied for Technische Universität München as I have heard amazing things about the university and their facilities for exchange students. Also, I am fortunate enough to have the opportunity to study Biomedical Engineering in a country that’s so advanced in this area.
When I received my acceptance to TUM I was so excited and couldn’t believe that after the long application process that I would actually be going overseas, to study at one of the most prestigious universities in Germany. I am thrilled to have been given this opportunity!

I have traveled to Europe a few times before, however never on my own and certainly not for this length of time. The thing I find so appealing about exchange is the fact that you are truly immersed in the culture and I will thus be able to experience an authentic German lifestyle. However, I would be lying if I said I wasn’t scared – as I count down the days the more I start to question if I’m capable of living on my own in a foreign country where I don’t speak the language. As frightening as that is, I have to remind myself that this is the purpose of exchange, to push your boundaries, to meet new people and to be immersed in the culture.

TUM’s orientation week starts on the 1^st of October however I am planning on traveling for 2 weeks prior to arriving in Munich. I will be flying into Milan, to hopefully settle my nerves as I can speak Italian and plan on travelling to Switzerland and work my way towards Munich for Oktoberfest, which I am so excited for.

I think the most challenging thing will be the fact that I don’t speak German, however, I am planning on enrolling in a German for beginners language course at TUM, so I can learn the basics and hopefully continue to improve. I would also like to mention the fact that the exchange officers at TUM have been extremely helpful and have made the application process as easy and clear as possible.

I am so grateful for this opportunity and will continue to post about my adventures once I arrive in Europe!

By Daniela Tesoriero, 11971557, FEIT