Before I went to Munich, I had a general sense of what I wanted to do. Possibly something in the automotive industry, with a few dreams of travel sprinkled in. But I never expected a two-week program to flip the script completely.
Spending time at Hochschule München and exploring the city made something click. From visiting BMW’s flagship dealership and a Siemens facility to attending classes focused on real-world application, I found myself rethinking what I want in both my academic and professional future. I realized that what excites me most is innovation, especially when it’s tied to mobility, sustainability, and international collaboration. Suddenly, the idea of working in the automotive industry in Germany didn’t just sound cool, but it felt possible.
Being in Munich also reignited something personal: my love for language learning. I’d taken German way back in middle school, but it had faded into the background over time. After just a few days in the city, I found myself more curious about the language, all thanks to helpful buddies and a growing desire to truly connect with the people around me. As I finish my Portuguese minor, I’m already looking at ways to add German back into my academic life.
More than anything, this trip opened the door to the possibility of returning. Not just for travel, but maybe for a graduate degree. I’ve started looking into master’s programs in Germany, especially ones connected to automotive technology or AI, and I’m already dreaming of what it might be like to live and study there full-time.
What surprised me the most was how natural that dream started to feel. I had always thought studying or working outside North America would be out of reach, but this experience showed me otherwise. With the right mindset, the right support, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone, these kinds of goals suddenly don’t seem so far away.
I never thought that two weeks could change so much, but this experience proved otherwise. It reshaped how I see my future, not just in terms of career paths, but in terms of possibility. I left Munich not only with new goals but with the confidence to chase them. Whether that means returning for grad school, learning a new language, or working internationally, I know now that I’m capable of more than I imagined. This program didn’t just inspire me, it expanded what I believe is possible for myself.
Swanson School of Engineering 