When electrical engineering student Joanne Wu boarded a plane to Germany to complete a European Double Degree, she had no idea she would end up being a Product Manager for one of the world’s leading electronic engineering companies in Munich.
Joanne started her Bachelor of Engineering(Hons)/Master of Engineering program at The University of Queensland, before she applied to participate in UQ’s European Double Degree pathway in her third year.
“I wanted to experience living and studying in a different environment to further develop my skill sets,” she said.
Joanne was accepted into the Technical University of Munich (TUM) double degree, where she was able to complete the final two years of her studies and graduated with not only the integrated Bachelor and Master’s degree at UQ, but also a German Master’s qualification from TUM.
“TUM is one of the best engineering universities in the world and it was interesting to experience the different learning approach found in the German system.”
During her two years studying abroad, she also completed a thesis placement with Wurth Elektronik eiSos, giving her hands-on experience within a global company.
Her placement focused on the company’s electromagnetic compatibility components and looked at creating a new measurement routine for surface-mount technology in high frequency.
From there she secured a full time position and the company submitted her thesis for a unique patent, which she now officially owns.
“This exchange put my skills and character to the test the moment I arrived in Munich,” she said.
“But you learn and discover more about yourself and what you are capable of doing under these circumstances.”
Not only did her time abroad lead to career success, but she was able to see the sights of Europe and learn to speak German during her studies.
“The highlight of my experience was definitely travelling all over Europe. Germany is so central and surrounding countries are only a few hours away,” she said.
“I've learnt so much about different cultures, languages and really admire the characteristics that each individual place exhibits.”
You can find more information on UQ’s European Double Degree Program and the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) /Master of Engineering program at UQ’s Future Students website - www.future-students.uq.edu.au
Discover what other exchange opportunities are available to students at UQ at the UQ Abroad website.
