Program Testimonial

ISA Colombia: UniNorte - A Semester in Barranquilla, Colombia

Anonymous — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 20:10:02 +0000

ISA Colombia: UniNorte - A Semester in Barranquilla, Colombia Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 11/10/2020 - 13:10

Cole Velasquez's view of Barranquilla from his homestay.

Barranquilla is the largest city in the northern Caribbean Coast. It is the main industrial, shopping, educational and cultural center of the Caribbean Region in Colombia, offering a vibrant, scenic, and cosmopolitan setting where students can learn to dance salsa, cumbia, and merengue.

Barranquilla is home to la Universidad del Norte. The university meets the region’s needs of community relations, a deep sense of ethics, transparency, and excellence in academics, extensions, and research. Courses are taught in both English and Spanish. Typically, students live in homestays to maximize immersion in Colombian culture and the Spanish language, but housing in student residences is also available.

Students can study for a semester or summer, and course offerings are strong in civil engineering, computer science, electrical and computer engineering, and mechanical engineering.

Cole Velasquez is a civil engineering major who studied at UniNorte through ISA Colombia during his sophomore year. He enjoyed a profound experience and offers numerous insights to share about his time in Colombia.

Cole Velasquez during his time in Colombia.

What made you choose this specific study abroad program?
I chose to study at UniNorte in Barranquilla, Colombia because my Dad is Colombian. I have always gotten a glimpse of the culture and the food and music, but I had never been able to visit. I always dreamed of living in Colombia so I could understand my roots better, and I saw no better way to do that than studying abroad in Colombia. During my first week at college, I found this program, vowed to go, and this program worked out perfectly. It offers homestays, which were highly recommended to me, and I wanted to get a more intimate experience with the people there. Also, the academic program worked well with my major and had several compatible courses with my block diagram.

What was your experience like during the program?
In Barranquilla, I lived in an apartment with my host mom and dad and an additional American student (mi familia Barranquillera). I had classes every day of the week, though many students had days off. I took the 15-20 minute public bus ride to the university to attend my classes. One of my favorite parts of Colombian culture was the eating and siesta schedule. Lunch is the main meal there, and the entire family would come home for a lavish and delicious lunch and more often than not, I’d have time for homework or a nap (siesta). My host family was one of my favorite parts of my experience. They welcomed me into their family, engaged me in meaningful conversations, both taught me and learned from me, and they were a constant support in a foreign place. Additionally, I could go on and on forever about how I loved getting to know the local students at the university and going out to discotecas and becoming comfortable in the city. I also had the opportunity to travel throughout Colombia on weekend trips, over fall break, and with ISA. I visited Medellín, Bogotá, Santa Marta, Cartagena, Guatape, and San Gil. Colombia is a country of welcoming and kind people. My experience never felt overloaded with school, and I was able to balance my academics with a vibrant social life and plenty of travel.

Los Nevados National Park

How would you rate your academic experience? Please explain your rating.
My academic experience was very positive, but I likely would have done it differently in hindsight. On my study abroad, since I was already ahead in my block schedule, I decided not to take any engineering courses. This gave me the opportunity to take some cool humanities courses about topics that really interest me. The classes were great and interesting, but it was a significant change learning in a different language in some classes, and in a different country, and also taking humanities classes instead of engineering classes. I appreciated the ability to relax and have more time for fun, but I would’ve liked to take at least one or two engineering classes to get to know the local engineering students and have that experience.

Classroom culture is different in Colombia. Most of my classes were more loosely structured, had less homework, and were mostly project-based. I really enjoyed my Spanish class, and I felt like my Spanish improved a lot in that class. Lastly, the university campus was beautiful. It had a lot of open space, tasty food, and options to take tennis and salsa classes. Overall, on a scale of 1-10, I would rate my academic experience a 9. Make the most of it! Also, my time abroad was the only time in my life when grades didn’t weigh on me much since I only had to pass.

Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean Coast.

What would you tell other students who are considering this program?
I would recommend this program to EVERYONE who can put it into their schedule. It is an experience like no other. Colombia is a country of immense beauty that is filled with the most gracious and fun people. The university is great, the ISA study abroad program is a helpful resource, and Barranquilla is lots of fun. Barranquilla is not a tourist destination, but that was one of my favorite aspects about it all. I didn’t feel like just another tourist; I felt like a student. If you decide you want to go, practice Spanish every chance you get. Don’t be the American who only speaks English with other English-speakers. Invest in your host family, offer up help, strike up conversation, and ask questions. Additionally, travel is fun and seeing places is fantastic, but be sure to pursue meeting people and exploring Barranquilla while you are there. It’ll make the experience even more special. Finally, have fun, make it your own, and feel every emotion.

A mural in downtown Barranquilla.

Any other comments?
Algunas palabras y frases importantes:
Chévere → Cool, great
Bacano → Awesome
A la orden → you’re welcome, here to help, at your service
Costeño/a → a person from the Caribbean coast of Colombia

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Two Ways to Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea

Anonymous — Wed, 07 Oct 2020 18:51:45 +0000

Two Ways to Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 10/07/2020 - 12:51

A view of Seoul, South Korea at night.

Seoul is the capital of South Korea and is located in the northwestern region of the country. The city is surrounded by mountains, and the Han River runs through it. With a population of 9.7 million, Seoul is the political, economic, and cultural center of South Korea. The city is a mix of modernity and tradition.

Seoul is home to Korea University and Yonsei University, both of which are private universities. The two universities make up two of the three SKY universities, which are widely regarded as the most prestigious universities in South Korea.

Korea University is the top private university in Korea. It offers a renowned faculty and caters to both local and international students. It is a part of APRU and U21 university networks, making KU a peer with the world’s top research universities. Courses are offered in English and Korean. Students can live in residence halls or nearby off-campus housing.

Yonsei University is another top-tier private university located in Seoul. The university was established in 1957 through the union of Yonhi College and Severance Union Medical College. It is a missionary school, but students from non-Christian backgrounds are still welcome to attend. CU students can study at Yonsei University through CIEE, a well-established study abroad organization that offers students a number of on-site support services that complement the university’s academic offerings. Yonsei aims to foster in-depth academic research, education, and community service.

The semester-long program at Korea University is available to engineering students studying architectural engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering, and mechanical engineering. The program also offers credit for humanities and social sciences and tech electives.

Student Brayden Shelley while abroad in South Korea.

Brayden Shelley is a mechanical engineering major who studied abroad at Yonsei University as a sophomore and at Korea University in his junior year. His extensive study abroad experience provided valuable insights about both universities in South Korea for students considering either program.

What made you choose each of those specific study abroad programs?

I had been learning Korean for a while. My family hosted an exchange student from Korea when I was in high school and then I took some Korean language classes here at CU. At the time, the Yonsei program was the only one in Korea. After I came back, they added the program at Korea University and I decided to go on that one too. I was the first student to attend that program!

What was your experience like during each program?

Both experiences were awesome, but quite different. At Yonsei, it was partnered with CIEE. They had some really great staff on the Yonsei campus and had a lot of really cool programs and events. The staff were really good about providing support and activities to us. They helped us get familiar with Seoul, hosted some events to teach us about Korean culture, took us on trips to two other cities in Korea, and paired us with local Korean college students for other events. For someone who had never traveled outside of the United States before, it was a bit intimidating at first but the CIEE staff gave us so much help, and I made so many friends that made it such a great experience. The classes were taught well and weren’t too difficult. They had a mix of Korean and international students, but some classes only had international students. The campus is beautiful, and is located in an amazing area of Seoul.

Architectural details in Seoul.

At Korea University, it was a direct exchange, meaning there wasn’t as much support or planned events. Many students stayed in the dorms, but I rented my own apartment off-campus. For the classes, they had limits of how many exchange students could be in each class. All of the classes I took were mostly comprised of Korean students, with only a few exchange students. I’d say they were more challenging than the classes at Yonsei, but the professors were also really understanding of the difficulties the international students faced. This exchange felt more like I was a student at a Korean university rather than an exchange student.

How would you rate your academic experience at each university?

I would rate Yonsei University as a 10 out of 10. This was such an amazing experience and is absolutely the best semester I have had in college. I made so many friends and had such a great time. I would rate Korea University as an 8 out of 10. I also had a really great experience here, but in a completely different way. It was a bit harder to get used to with more difficult classes.

A walkway with a view in Seoul.

What would you tell other students who are considering either of these programs?

Either program is a great chance to experience Korea through a study abroad experience. For someone with no prior travel to Korea, I think the Yonsei program would be a much better choice. The fact that it was a CIEE program paired with the location makes it such a great option for studying abroad. I can guarantee this will be the highlight of your college career and an experience of a lifetime!

Any other comments?

Studying abroad in general is just such a great experience. Whether you pick Yonsei University, Korea University, or a program in another country, know that you are making a great decision!

All photos included in this article were taken by Brayden Shelley.

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University of Wollongong - A Virtual and In-Person Experience

Anonymous — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 22:03:29 +0000

University of Wollongong - A Virtual and In-Person Experience Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 09/18/2020 - 16:03

Spencer Miller during his time abroad in Australia.

Wollongong is a city located in the Illawarra region on the coastal strip between the Illawarra Escarpment and the Pacific Ocean. It is the tenth largest city in Australia, with a population of about 300,000. Wollongong is known for its port activity and beautiful coastal environment, surrounded by mountains. The city has a thriving music and theater scene, adding to the cosmopolitan feel. Additionally, metropolitan Sydney can be reached by just a 90-minute train ride, giving students the best of both city and coastal living.

The University of Wollongong is ranked in the highest 2% of universities worldwide and hosts top-tier research programs. There are a variety of clubs on campus, providing the opportunity to meet and socialize with Australian students. Exchange students can live in one of the five university residences near campus or in a private room or flat. Classes are taught in English, Australia’s de facto national language.

This program is available to students studying applied math, architectural engineering, computer science, electrical and computer engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, and creative technology and design.

While the University of Wollongong is traditionally an in-person study abroad location, it has made much of its coursework available online during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing students to partake in a virtual exchange. Anthony Nguyen is a junior studying mechanical engineering with a minor in biomedical engineering, and he is completing the virtual exchange program this semester. Spencer Miller, a mechanical engineering major, completed the in-person program his junior year, before the pandemic. Both Spencer and Anthony had great insights to share about the university, and their respective experiences studying abroad.

Anthony Nguyen completed the University of Wollongong program virtually in Fall 2020.

Virtual Experience
Anthony Nguyen originally planned to complete the in-person program at University of Wollongong but shifted to the virtual experience in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

What are your first impressions of the virtual exchange program with the University of Wollongong?
My first impressions of the virtual exchange program at the University of Wollongong were that it was certainly different, and that it would be difficult to adjust to the time zone difference. However, the virtual welcome sessions they held made it feel rather natural, and I felt like I was meeting people. I was very excited to start the virtual semester; however, the course structure initially overwhelmed me before I eventually came to admire and enjoy it. I believe the hardest adjustment was understanding and navigating the online course catalogue through Moodle and getting adjusted to attending class in Wollongong’s time zone.

What drew you to this program?
This program drew me in because it is incredibly affordable, the university ranks in the top 2% in the world, and it is a stone’s throw from Sydney, giving me access to a major airport so I could visit other regions, including the Great Barrier Reef. Additionally, it meant that I could take relatively difficult courses in a country that is still English-speaking.

Where are you taking your virtual classes from? How do you think that's affected your experience so far?
I am currently taking my virtual classes from my parents’ home in Federal Heights, CO. When classes started in August, I actually started taking my classes in California at my significant other’s home but have since driven back to Colorado. Some days it is very hard to focus on school, and other days I find it nice that I have everything I could need for schoolwork within my home.

In terms of motivation, I would say attending the University of Wollongong virtually isn’t as hard as taking virtual classes at CU was last semester when COVID hit. Generally, the University of Wollongong encourages you to further your knowledge of the course subject by doing your own research, using other resources and exploring things on the internet. UOW's emphasis on teaching yourself outside of the classroom makes me want to go to class and do more research so I can do the best I can. For most courses, lectures only occur once a week on Mondays, so you have the whole rest of the week to learn and figure things out. On the other hand, CU holds most classes two or three times a week, and most everything you will need in the class is presented in lectures. While UOW similarly presents concepts in lecture, the actual learning and understanding comes from the tutorials and practicals for each course and the independent research. You almost have to instruct yourself out of the classroom to get full understanding. Since CU presents nearly everything to you in lecture (at least in engineering), there is very little thought required outside of class. Overall, I feel better about my performance in courses and will retain more from instructing myself at UOW than I have with the courses taken at CU.

UOW makes me want to work harder. Because there's so much time left to my own devices, I have a lot more freedom in choice in what I do and when I do it. Since this independent learning is emphasized, I find myself wanting to study, rather than go do something more divertive like going on a hike. Over halfway through my semester at UOW, I still find myself wanting to do better, and I don't think this feeling will burn out. The difference in teaching style and what professors emphasize has changed how I feel about virtual classes and has helped my motivation levels.

Given that you're taking your courses virtually, do you feel that you're still able to gain some of the cultural immersion that you would have if you were living in Wollongong?
I think that with the virtual meetings that the University of Wollongong’s Office of Global Student Mobility offers, I am still able to gain some immersion in Australia’s culture. So far they’ve had a welcome meeting and a flora and fauna meeting, though I was not able to attend the latter. I had a very good time at the welcome meeting and met a lot of people from interesting places. Additionally, courses are often structured with group assignments. All four of the classes I am taking include some group assignment. In three of the four, I have met and made friends with people who have been very kind and understanding of the abroad situation. The fourth does not hold actual live classes, and as such it is not as easy to meet people. Tutorial sessions are a possible avenue for meeting others, but I find it harder as I tend to focus on the problems. I do wish that there was more of a cultural aspect, such as a social hour every week or maybe a meal. The next student mobility meeting concerns cooking, which I am very excited about, but since they happen only once a month or every three weeks there isn’t much interaction. Regardless, we have been encouraged to use Facebook and other connection services to talk to one another, and I am grateful for that.

How would you rate your experience so far on a scale of 1-10?
I would rate the experience as an 8. I am very happy to be studying virtually at the University of Wollongong, including my courses and their difficulty. I am likewise happy to have connected with a number of interesting people. Of course, I do wish that I was physically in Australia, and this experience fuels my interest in visiting someday.

In-Person Experience
Before studying abroad, Spencer Miller had traveled to places like England, Turkey, and Peru with his family, but he had never been away from home alone.

Spencer Miller during his travels around Australia, Indonesia, and New Zealand.

Being alone in a new place provided him with the opportunity and motivation to talk to new people. On his first day in Wollongong, he met so many other students that he had to write all of their names down to remember them. Spencer still keeps in contact with many of the people that he met in Australia, and now has places to stay in France, Denmark, and all over the world.

Although he said that many aspects of Wollongong felt like home, he was often surprised by unexpected sightings around every corner, like a tropical parrot or an exotic plant.

Spencer took courses in both mechanical engineering and humanities and social sciences during his exchange, allowing him to stay on track with his degree while still having a lot of free time to explore. The education system was different than it is in Boulder; there’s a lot more emphasis on independent study, which meant fewer classes and notably less homework, yet exams were just as challenging. Although he prefers the system at CU because it keeps him on track throughout the semester, he was glad to have experienced a new style of learning.

Spencer traveled extensively around the coast of Australia, Indonesia, and New Zealand. During spring break he undertook a solo excursion to the islands of Indonesia and lived out of his backpack. He saw Komodo dragons, went to Bali, and visited Yogyakarta, the spiritual capital of Indonesia, which houses the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Spencer also collected a lot of stories while hitchhiking around New Zealand. Although many of his trips didn’t go exactly the way that he thought they would, he was relieved to discover that everything worked itself out. The spontaneity of not knowing where he was going or where he was going to sleep taught him about his ability to adapt to and enjoy uncertain situations, embracing experiences that he wouldn’t be able to recreate.

One of his favorite memories from his time studying abroad was unexpectedly meeting an old boat captain while trying to find a place to sleep during his backpacking trip. The captain gave Spencer a meal on the deck of his boat and provided a place to sleep. Even though the captain barely spoke English, they were able to have a five-hour long conversation, communicating mostly with gestures and facial expressions.

Spencer is thankful for the experiences that he had that taught him to take care of himself and think completely for himself for the first time. Without parents or an advisor to tell him what was best for him, he learned to make decisions for himself and to be accountable for his actions. Even though he was homesick at times, Spencer learned that being present and focusing on the unique moment he was in helped him enjoy his experience much more. He had to “just remember that [he] was on the other side of the world.” Spencer encourages others studying abroad to try to do everything, “even if it’s scary!” Studying abroad taught him things about the world, and about himself, that he would not have learned had he remained in Boulder. Studying abroad completely changed his perspective to think globally. He now sees more clearly how the things that he creates as an engineer will affect people around the world. Spencer has realized that thinking globally in the field of engineering allows him to engage all kinds of people, whether they’re from Boulder or Yogyakarta.

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Uppsala University - A Semester in Uppsala, Sweden

Anonymous — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 20:38:53 +0000

Uppsala University - A Semester in Uppsala, Sweden Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 09/18/2020 - 14:38

Tatiana Jones studied TAM, now known as CTD, and grew up in Evergreen, Colorado. She had only left the country once before starting her degree, but after seeing others study abroad, she was eager to do the same. After finding classes for her major in Sweden, she set off for Uppsala, Sweden for four months. In her time abroad, she was exposed to a whole new world (literally!) of responsibilities, given the opportunity to travel Scandinavia and other parts of Europe, and was able to build connections with like-minded people from all over the globe.

Tatiana immersed herself in a very different world when she left home for Uppsala, and she quickly learned that moving across the planet to a new country presents a lot of new and different challenges. She was suddenly thrust into more independence and responsibility than she is used to at home, while simultaneously adapting to an unfamiliar university, a new social life, and a different culture.

Tatiana soon realized that these challenges also presented tremendous opportunities. She had a much smaller workload at Uppsala University than she was used to at ��ý�Ļ��Ʒ, so she used this free time to try a lot of new things. Tatiana’s philosophy was to, “Say ‘yes!’ to every opportunity that came my way.” Her adventures took her all across Sweden, Iceland, Switzerland, Finland, and Norway. She tried new foods, like knackebrot with kalle (crisp bread with caviar), tried new activities, like dog sledding, and made new friends from Holland, Australia, Finland, and Sweden that she still keeps in contact with today.

Like many students who study abroad, Tatiana found it hard to come home. She learned a lot about herself, developed a more global perspective, and expanded her education in ways that no class can. Tatiana is excited to continue traveling, and would like to go to Britain, New Zealand, and of course back to Sweden to relive her favorite moments from her time abroad.

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Comillas Pontifical University

Anonymous — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 16:07:13 +0000

Comillas Pontifical University Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 06/02/2020 - 10:07

Summer research or a semester in Madrid, Spain

Madrid is the capital and the most populous city in Spain. It lies on the River Manzanares and is the political, economic and cultural center of the country. The city is also home to two world-famous football clubs, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. Madrid has also preserved the look and feel of many of its historic neighborhoods and streets and contains many national museums and historical archives.

Madrid is home to Comillas Pontifical University. It is a Catholic university that has been run for over a century by the Society of Jesus. Comillas has been training professionals since 1890 and is motivated by the desire to contribute to scientific innovation. Classes are taught in both English and Spanish, and students are housed in apartments, houses, or homestays.

The program is available to students studying aerospace engineering, applied math, electrical and computer engineering, environmental engineering, and mechanical engineering.

Andrew Wingfield is the director of international programs for CU’s College of Engineering and Applied Science. He visited the Comillas campus and had lots of great information to share about all the university has to offer.

What are the academic draws of attending Comillas?

Comillas is a well-established, Jesuit university with campuses in and around Madrid, Spain. Engineering students study at Comillas’ main campus in the heart of Madrid and follow a U.S.-styled engineering curriculum developed in close collaboration with U.S. colleges of engineering. Known as SAPIENS (study abroad program for international engineering students), this unique program provides students access to English-taught engineering coursework graded on a 4.0 scale with ample access to Spanish culture and language courses. CU engineering students will benefit from a high-quality engineering education in a familiar format while immersing themselves in the culture and language of one of Europe’s most dynamic and cosmopolitan capital cities. Comillas offers a number of technical summer courses for students seeking a shorter study abroad experience, including popular courses like thermodynamics. Students may also pursue summer research projects at Comillas, providing a global setting for undergraduate research—an important experience for students thinking about graduate school or considering a career focused on research and development.

Being right in the heart of Madrid, what is the environment and feel of the university like?

Like so much of Madrid, Comillas is emblematic of a rich history and bright future. The campus buildings are ornate yet modern and include excellent laboratory facilities, unusual for a private and relatively small Spanish university. The campus buildings are dense, like many urban universities, and students are within an easy walk or metro ride to Madrid’s sprawling parks, world-class museums, and many modern amenities.

What would you tell students who are considering this program?

Spain remains one of the most popular study abroad destinations for American students, including at CU, and Comillas has distinguished itself for its semester and summer SAPIENS program. Students who wish to live and study in the heart of Madrid with small class sizes and a familiar course format will find Comillas to be an excellent fit. A number of housing options are available, including homestays for students who wish to practice Spanish and sow relationships with Spanish people. Importantly, students should be aware that SAPIENS courses typically align best with sophomore year, with spring semester offering the most robust engineering coursework.

What specific majors would you recommend application to this program to?

Sophomores from CEAE, EE/ECE, e+, and ME will find a number of pre-approved courses in their field of study. Summer research opportunities are available in a wide range of engineering disciplines, and students can apply to work on a project related to their interests.

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Two Ways to Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia

Anonymous — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 16:06:55 +0000

Two Ways to Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 06/02/2020 - 10:06

Beaches of Melbourne, Australia.

A view of the city across a canal.

Melbourne is the capital of the Australian state of Victoria, and it is the second most populous state in Australia and Oceania. The city is home to many of Australia’s best-known landmarks, such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the National Gallery of Victoria and the Royal Exhibition Building. Melbourne is recognized as a UNESCO City of Literature and a global center for street art, live music, and theatre, while also hosting many annual international sporting events like the Australian Open.

The city is home to two world-class universities - Monash University and the University of Melbourne. Both of these universities are fantastic options for CU engineering students looking to experience life in Melbourne.

Monash University is ranked in the top 1 percent of all world universities. It has a diverse student population spread across five campuses; CU students’ studies are based at the Clayton campus, with the option to take classes at the Caulfield campus. The university focuses on collaboration, culture, optimism, and history. CU exchange students live in on-campus residence halls.

The semester-long program at Monash University is available to engineering students studying computer science, aerospace engineering, applied math, chemical and biological engineering, civil engineering, electrical and computer engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, and creative technology and design.

The University of Melbourne is a public institution that focuses on research, learning, teaching and engagement. The research done at the university is used to help solve social, economic and environmental challenges. Courses are taught in English, and students are housed in either apartments, houses or residence halls.

This semester-long program is available to students studying computer science, engineering physics, and creative technology and design.

The CU engineering education abroad team spoke with two students about their respective experiences at Monash University and the University of Melbourne to compare and contrast the two universities. Rémy Morgan is an astronomy major with a minor in atmospheric and oceanic sciences. She is a non-traditional transfer student and studied abroad at Monash University as she approached her junior year. Caroline Adams is an English, creative writing and psychology major who completed the University of Melbourne program during the spring semester of her junior year.

What made you choose this specific study abroad program?

Rémy: I chose this program for a few reasons, actually. First, Monash University has a good selection of pre-approved atmospheric and oceanic sciences units to choose from, and had a lot of astronomy options I got approved for transfer. A lot of other universities CU partners with don't have as many opportunities to do STEM work, but Monash was definitely an exception. I was really drawn to the location as well—Melbourne looked like an amazing city to spend a semester in! And it really was a great place. I'd also always wanted to see the night sky in the Southern Hemisphere, so Australia had a lot of appeal in that department. It was gorgeous and I did cry, thank you.
Caroline: I have wanted to go to Australia for as long as I could remember, and shockingly, study abroad and airline miles made it very affordable to do so! I chose Melbourne because it was the perfect combination of the modern city and the stereotypical Australian beaches. I did a lot of research when trying to decide between Sydney and Melbourne, landing on Melbourne because it seemed like a more authentic experience, less driven by tourism.

An ocean view near the University of Melbourne.

What was your experience like during the program?

Rémy: My experience was awesome! I loved the campus and the people (classmates, professors, random strangers, etc.) and the city itself was amazing. I found a really good friend group while I was out there and ended up spending most of my time with them. I loved exploring the area, both in the city and the gorgeous views nearby. The campus was really neat as well.
Caroline: I had an incredible experience there! The university was probably my favorite part. I made a lot of really close friends who are from Australia, Indonesia and even New Zealand who also studied there. Oddly enough, I ran into a handful of friends from high school that moved there to join the lacrosse team and the other American students in my program were so much fun! I also took classes from some world-renowned psychologists and medievalists. Melbourne is massive; there was something new to see every single day. If you like coffee, it's the place to be!

How would you rate your academic experience? Please explain your rating.

Rémy: Academically, it was a really tough semester, I'm not going to lie. Monash University is pretty exam-heavy, rather than assignment-heavy, which means that if you're not a great test-taker or get test-anxiety, this might be a tough program. One of my classes, the final alone was worth 60%. So, if you plan to go abroad and goof-off, I would not suggest this program. I learned a lot though, and managed to take care of a number of upper-division credit requirements there, which I didn't think would be possible in a major that isn't generally great for studying abroad. As for an overall academic rating... it's tough. I don't think the exam-heavy system lends itself well to good pedagogy, but the professors there do care about making sure you're getting the material through good pedagogy.
Caroline: I would give my academic experience a 10/10. I took four classes, two for my majors and two to fill general requirements for Arts and Sciences. If you have any humanities and social science course requirements to fill, I highly recommend taking them abroad! I took two history classes and learned so much about America but also about Australia's role in history, which I had never learned about before. You certainly get a new perspective in every class you take. I put a lot of work into my classes and tried to be very outgoing during labs or recitations and made most of my friends by doing so! A handful of my classmates also lived on campus and getting tours of their dorms and eating with them in their dining halls was a very unique experience to say the least. There were some people within my program that only took two classes or had to drop one of their classes because of their attendance, but going to class is one of the few ways that you can actually interact and get to know Australians and their culture.

What would you tell other students who are considering this program?

Rémy: I was in the science course while I was there, so I can't speak so much to the other courses, but you have to be on top of yourself the whole time. Lectures are all pre-recorded and optional and if you're not on top of it, they may pile up. A huge percent of your grade comes from tests, so you need to feel comfortable with that. Make sure that you explore the area when you're here—the public transport is amazing! And eat all the good food you can. I would highly recommend the program, so long as you plan to still be academically-focused.

Any other tips?

Rémy: If you go to Monash University, definitely take the time to get involved on campus and to make sure you get to explore the area when you can! Public transport is easy and there's tons to do and see.

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National Chiao Tung University

Anonymous — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 16:06:25 +0000

National Chiao Tung University Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 06/02/2020 - 10:06

A Semester in Hsinchu, Taiwan

Hsinchu, Taiwan.

Hsinchu is the oldest city in northern Taiwan. It has a relatively small population of around 35,000 people and is a little over an hour from the capital, Taipei, by train. Hsinchu is surrounded by beautiful mountain areas, and the constant wind gusts from the Taiwan Strait keep the city pollution-free. Hsinchu is home to The Science Park, also known as Taiwan’s Silicon Valley. The city is known for its technology and also its high-quality decorative glass art products.

Hsinchu is home to National Chiao Tung University, a top-tier research university renowned for its excellence in engineering, computing, and science. Students can live in dorms or apartments. Classes are taught in English, but all students have the opportunity to take Mandarin language courses as well.

This program is available to students studying computer science, applied math, civil engineering, electrical and computer engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, engineering physics, and technology, arts and media.

Francesco Vassalli is an engineering physics major and completed the NCTU program during his junior year. He shared a wide array of valuable information about his academic experience and his time living in Taiwan.

Reasons for choosing NCTU

Vassalli’s father is an immigrant from Switzerland, so he and his family visit Switzerland frequently. He has also traveled to South America with Engineers Without Borders. Based on his previous experiences, he wanted to study abroad in an unfamiliar region. He chose this specific study abroad program primarily because of the coursework offered, and also because he wanted to learn more about Asia and Asian cultures. Through his time there, he gained a new perspective on the relationship between China and Taiwan and the regional history that has made Taiwan a melting pot of influences and cultures. Vassalli also mentioned that Taiwan is socially similar to the United States, with Eastern values and traditions mixed in. If a student is interested in learning about East Asia, Taiwan is a great place to do so.

A view from a hike Vassalli took during his free time.

Academics

Even though courses at NCTU are taught in English, Vassalli learned some Mandarin before the program and picked up more while he was there. Mandarin was widely spoken among his classmates, despite broad knowledge of English, and Vassalli shared an apartment with European exchange students from several different countries. Vassalli said he felt less academic pressure in Taiwan than he does in Boulder, especially since CU counts study abroad coursework as pass/fail. It is very common for students in Taiwan to take six classes with the same credit amounts at CU, but it is also very common for students to fail a class. Failing a class is not viewed as negatively there as it is in the U.S. because the Taiwanese job market is much less sensitive to GPA. Vassalli said it is hard to do well in some courses, but if you try and put the effort in, it is hard to fail. He also had much less homework there, as academic culture in Taiwan is more independent, meaning students are responsible for keeping up with course content between exams. The courses at NCTU are very similar to those in Boulder, and one of Vassalli’s classes even used the same textbook that CU does.

Taiwan's beautiful jungle-like mountains.

Living Situation

Students have the option to live in either dorms or apartments. Vassalli recommends getting an apartment, as the dorms are similar to ��ý�Ļ��Ʒ’s but smaller and more crowded. Vassalli shared an apartment with three other students. He remarked that it was nicer than his place in Boulder and also cheaper. He got around using public transport and a bicycle. Vassalli recommends getting an apartment without a kitchen. The population that eats out in Hsinchu is so large that it keeps the price of food extremely low—he ate out for every meal for almost five months! In general, Taiwan is an affordable place to live, and Vassalli worked off his normal budget that he uses in Boulder for travel, flights, food and other living expenses.

Free Time

For the first few months Vassalli spent in Taiwan, he traveled to different places around the country using the train system. Between the trains and the subway system in Taipei, he said it was super easy for him to get around. Hsinchu is a more industrial city, so he often traveled to Taipei to experience big events and a younger demographic. A bus line runs between the two cities, and a new bus leaves every three minutes, making it even easier to travel.
Taiwan’s geography is beautiful and unique. It is a very wet and rainy place, with a sort of jungle feel. Vassalli spent lots of time hiking through the mountains and biking around the island through beach and mountain landscapes. Due to the pass/fail nature of study abroad grading, Vassalli said he had more free time in Taiwan than he would have in Boulder.

A beach Vassalli visited while in Taiwan.

Recommendations for students considering NCTU

Vassalli remarked about how unique of an experience his study abroad was. He also strongly recommended students look into the food options offered in Taiwan, as the diet there is very different than that of the United States. If you are vegetarian or vegan, there are plenty of options, but make sure to learn the Mandarin so you can request those specifications. Vassalli said he believes the program would be a good fit for anyone who wants to learn more about Asian or Chinese culture and anyone who is interested in the engineering courses offered by NCTU.

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Erica Wiener - Engineers Without Boarders USA in Nepal

Anonymous — Sun, 15 Mar 2020 23:33:15 +0000

Erica Wiener - Engineers Without Boarders USA in Nepal Anonymous (not verified) Sun, 03/15/2020 - 17:33

Erica Wiener, left, gathers with members of Engineers Without Borders during her service trip to Nepal.

BS Environmental Engineering – Class of 2016

As a sophomore transfer student, Erica Wiener got involved with Engineers Without Borders casually. But an exploratory information session turned into serving as secretary of the Nepal team, then program manager, and before she knew it, she was traveling to Nepal to work on development projects firsthand.

As her international service roles deepened, Wiener embraced the gravity of her work.

“Typically you don’t place the livelihood of people in students’ hands,” she says. “It’s a huge responsibility.”

Despite its emphasis on service to developing communities, international travel is not a requirement nor a guarantee for students serving in EWB. So Wiener was excited when she was selected to travel to Nepal in summer 2015. Then, a severe earthquake rocked the Himalayan country that spring, killing almost 9,000 people and upending the country. The EWB trip was cancelled, but the need for engineering projects remained.

Wiener and her team rescheduled their travels for winter break, but the aftermath of the earthquake was a poignant reminder to be prepared for anything.

“Working with developing communities, you often run into really unexpected situations,” Wiener says. “It’s a really challenging experience, but it’s also a super valuable experience that you wouldn’t be able to get anywhere else in your undergraduate career.”

Wiener and the team worked on water quantity and quality projects to improve access and prevent illnesses in the community of Ilam in eastern Nepal. They gained hands-on engineering experience along with best practices for working alongside people from other cultures.

Wiener also participated in CU’s faculty-led Global Seminar “Culture Wars in Rome,” which included classes on the history of Italy and travel to significant historical sites, so her undergraduate career offered a broad range of international experiences.

She encourages students to attend information sessions and learn about opportunities available to undergraduates – and to think about how their lives and careers might benefit.

“Knowing beforehand what kind of experience you want out of it is helpful,” Wiener says.

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Maithreyi Gopalakrishnan - Launching Surya Conversions in India

Anonymous — Sun, 15 Mar 2020 23:28:39 +0000

Maithreyi Gopalakrishnan - Launching Surya Conversions in India Anonymous (not verified) Sun, 03/15/2020 - 17:28

BS/MS Engineering Physics – Class of 2016

CU student Maithreyi Gopalakrishnan gathers with members of Surya Conversions, a company that produces hybrid rickshaw conversion kits.

In 2014, Maithreyi Gopalakrishnan traveled to India, a place she visited frequently to see family. But this time, she had a different mission: developing her business venture.

On this three-week, grant-funded trip, Gopalakrishnan refined her designs for a hybrid rickshaw conversion kit, aiming to reduce pollution caused by the passenger vehicles popular in developing countries. She dissected an auto rickshaw, took pictures, interviewed drivers and learned about their lives and needs.

As a student at CU, Gopalakrishnan had become involved with the Center for Environmental Energy Security, an interdisciplinary research and policy center that aims to move society toward a sustainable energy future. In 2012, she coordinated a conference on the subject, recruiting speakers involved with sustainable cook stoves, water and transportation projects in developing countries.

She embarked on her own research project to pilot a cleaner rickshaw and launched a company, Surya Conversions, to attract investors and manufacture hybrid electric conversion kits. Her team developed a prototype and began rigorous testing this fall. The kit, which retrofits common auto rickshaw models without modifying the vehicle’s existing components, can be installed in about an hour and reduces vehicle emissions by as much as a third. Drivers can see fuel savings of up to $600 per year.

“It took me very little time to find people who were interested in this project,” Gopalakrishnan said.

Her team won the Social Impact Prize as part of CU’s New Venture Challenge in 2014, then won the top prize in the Boulder Chamber of Commerce’s Espirit Venture Challenge in 2015. At graduation in spring 2016, the College of Engineering and Applied Science recognized Gopalakrishnan as one of two Outstanding Graduates for Service.

Now, the project that Gopalakrishnan started as an undergraduate has become a career, as the young alum works to help Surya Conversions take off.

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Technical University of Darmstadt - Summer Research in Darmstadt, Germany

Anonymous — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 17:23:22 +0000

Technical University of Darmstadt - Summer Research in Darmstadt, Germany Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 03/10/2020 - 11:23

Darmstadt is located in the Southern part of the state of Hesse in Germany, about 30 minutes south of the city of Frankfurt. It holds the official title “City of Science” because it is a major center of scientific institutions, universities, and high-technology companies. Darmstadt is also a thriving culture center, filled with museums, galleries, expositions, and an old theatrical tradition. There are many old buildings, parks and gardens throughout the city.

Darmstadt is home to Technical University of Darmstadt (TU-D). TU-D is one of Germany’s leading technical universities, and is characterized by a pioneering spirit. The International Research Experience Program (IREP) at TU-D is conducted in English. Applicants are matched with other students based on preference for research topics, and also receive academic support and supervision from a faculty member at TU-D. Students work in a lab setting for approximately 30 hours per week, but also have time to explore the city and travel during the weekends.

The summer research program is available to students studying Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical, Computer & Energy Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.

Noah Gilsdorf is a double major in Mechanical Engineering and Jazz Studios - Bass. He completed the IREP program at TU-D between his junior and senior year at ��ý�Ļ��Ʒ. He had a plethora of information to share about his experience.

What made you choose this specific study abroad program?
I decided to choose this study abroad program for a few reasons. Most importantly, it was a summer abroad program, because I could not complete a full semester abroad and still stay on track with my two majors. It also was one of the most affordable abroad programs I could find. It also was purely a research program, so it gave me a good insight into research, grad school, and other applications in the field of research.

What was your experience like during the program?
During the program, I had a great time. It was a very insightful, and learning experience for me. Not only was I learning about the field of engineering research, but also how other country's customs are different from ours. The program's students had a good mix of international students as well, ranging from the U.S. to Canada and Singapore. The day-to-day research was sometimes difficult because it was very self-led, but my supervisor was always available to help and show me a way to go. The department at the university was very kind and included me on a lot of their events, like barbecues, soccer tournaments, and funnily enough after the first day I was there, invited me to participate in a 10k race with them that afternoon. The program included some outings with fellow international students, like a trip to Heidelberg, and a trip to Munich. Other schools across US and Canada who do the same program in Darmstadt had multiple people in the program, however, I was the only CU student to be in the program, which was not bad because a lot of us lived together making it easy to get to know one another.

How would you rate your academic experience?
My academic experience was very good and I would rate it highly, however, only if working alone is a strong ability. This is because most of the time, I was by myself on my project because I was the only student assigned to my particular project. This made it easy for me to interact with the German grad students, and my supervisor more, which I believe made it a much more enriching experience.

What would you tell other students who are considering this program?
I do think that this program is what you make of it. I think an important aspect is making sure to do extracurricular activities, like traveling, experiencing the culture, and making friends along the way. Being outgoing in this program makes it much better.

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