Takayuki Miyauchi (Taka) is an AAE junior who is studying abroad this summer in Germany at Technical University of Braunschweig.

 

Why did you want to study abroad?

I lived in Singapore, Japan and Thailand before coming to the U.S but I have never visited Europe in my life. Therefore, I was eager to study in Germany and see what it was like to live there. 

 

Where are you studying abroad? Why did you choose this location/program?

AAE Summer research program at Technical University of Braunschweig. The university has a great program in aerospace engineering and I was interested in the Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD) project they offered. I also wanted to improve my German skills by using some of the things I learned from GER101 and GER102. 

 

Best experience so far:

My best experience would have to be all the banter I had with new friends I made whilst in Germany. There was always something to look forward to every single day whether it be work or travelling somewhere new!

 

What you’ve learned—either about yourself or the culture you’re living in:

The people and the atmosphere in Germany were very similar to my hometown in Japan. Apart from the language and ordering water, it felt like home and I loved it. One thing I learned about myself is that I am capable of adapting to a new environment without any hesitation.

 

Would you suggest study abroad for other AAE students? Why?

Absolutely! It is a great opportunity to gain technical experience and be exposed to a new culture at the same time. You have the chance to work on interesting projects during the weekdays and travel around on the weekends. It is something you can only do during your college career so definitely take it into consideration!

 

top photo: Takayuki Miyauchi at Speicherstadt in Hamburg, Germany

middle and bottom photos: Takayuki Miyauchi with fellow students in Germany