A semester abroad at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS)

Author: Dr.-Ing. Florian Wallburg

HTWK Leipzig maintains a large number of university partnerships and thus fosters relationships with academic institutions in many parts of the world. Within Europe in particular, the funding opportunities for semesters abroad are excellent, including at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS). UWS has several campuses in the west of Scotland. Depending on their degree programme, students spend their semester abroad in Paisley – a town neighbouring Glasgow – in Ayr, Hamilton or Dumfries. UWS is a campus-based university: all buildings and facilities (including the very international student halls of residence, cafés, institutes, lecture theatres and laboratories) are within a few minutes’ walk of one another, which is a major advantage.

The partnership between UWS in Paisley, where the School of Engineering and Computing is based, and the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Energy Technology at HTWK Leipzig is particularly close, which is especially evident in the way the course content perfectly complements one another. Due to the high proportion of international students, the university generally has a great deal of experience and expertise in dealing with its visiting students.

Every year, for example, UWS organises what is known as ‘Induction Week’, during which there are many events for new students. In addition, during this period, many student mentors are on hand to answer the many questions new students may have.

Generally speaking, the benefits of a semester abroad – not just at UWS – are enormous: As well as gaining an in-depth understanding of the dialect – which, particularly in the Glasgow area, takes some getting used to – and the culture of the host country, you’ll make contacts with people from a wide variety of nations, who are represented on the Paisley campus through UWS’s numerous partnerships. Together with friends or fellow students, you’ll have the chance to explore Scotland and, alongside your busy study schedule, take trips to the breathtaking landscapes of the Highlands (see photos of Loch Ness or Loch Linhe) or visit the countless castles and other attractions. The proximity to the city of Glasgow is a particularly positive aspect when it comes to planning trips and organising leisure activities in general.

Of course, the benefits that a semester abroad brings, particularly in terms of professional development, should not be overlooked: As well as the experience gained abroad, which is highly regarded by future employers, the range of courses on offer locally can be tailored very well to one’s personal areas of interest, thereby allowing for the in-depth study of selected subjects. It also offers the opportunity to become familiar with different, often much more problem-oriented approaches to teaching and self-study, thereby allowing you to experience your own field of study from a slightly different perspective.

For me personally – and I cannot emphasise this enough – the semester abroad was an unforgettable experience that I shall cherish in very fond memories, both professionally and personally. Florian Wallburg