Across the Atlantic and back – with UAS7
Charlotte is a student at Bremen City University of Applied Sciences, which is a member of the UAS7 alliance. She went abroad to the University of Pittsburgh as part of the UAS7 Study Program, because she had heard a lot of good things about the University and the city before – and she was not disappointed! We interviewed her shortly after her return to Germany.
Why did you decide to spend your exchange term in Pittsburgh with UAS7?
I had already been to the U.S. a few times before. During these visits, I liked the country a lot and I became curious about its people and culture. I was really fascinated by the U.S., so I started dreaming of studying there as an exchange student to get to know another study system and also to learn more about the country and the people. Thanks to UAS7, I had the great opportunity to fulfill one of my dreams.
How did you hear about UAS7?
To learn more about my possibilities to spend a semester abroad in the U.S. and to get an idea of what to expect, I read through the testimonies of former exchange students. All those who had been to the USA mentioned UAS7 again and again.
I asked the International Office of my university and they explained to me that my university is part of the UAS7 alliance and that I can spend my semester abroad at the University of Pittsburgh with the help of the Study Program.
Tell us about your experience at Pittsburgh University – what was special about studying there?
The University is great! Especially when you are an international exchange student. There are a lot of events and programs for international students. The University really wants you to get in touch with Americans and other internationals.
I was able to choose from many different classes in my own major but also in other majors. I chose five physics classes and I liked all of them a lot. What’s important to know is that the U.S. study system is different from the German system. In the U.S., they expect students to do much more for their classes and their grades. Students have to submit homework weekly or every other week. In addition, there are at least two exams for each class during the term. So, it’s hard work, but everything is possible! The professors really want their students to succeed. Moreover, the university offers many clubs, sports and events to help students escape from everyday university life, which can sometimes be stressful.
Charlotte and fellow UAS7 exchange students in Pittsburgh
What have you enjoyed most about your stay?
I really liked the people. Americans are generally very friendly and more open-minded than many other people. But I also really liked the city. You can do a lot of different things in Pittsburgh. You can go shopping at the Shadyside. You can see a lot of different sports teams and also go hiking in the parks. And not to forget the traveling. There are so many different opportunities to travel across the U.S. You can easily live like a native there.
Would you recommend Pittsburgh as a destination to international students?
Absolutely! Pittsburgh has a lot to offer. There are so many possibilities to visit museums, galleries, sports events or to do some shopping. You never get bored in the city. And the best part is that you can visit most of the galleries and museums for free with your student ID.
I really loved my time in Pittsburgh, and I can only recommend studying at the University of Pittsburgh.
Are you still in touch with the USA?
Yes, I am still in touch with some of the friends I made in the U.S. We already plan to meet again this summer. Hopefully, I can see all of them again.
Last question: What are your future plans?
I will finish my undergraduate studies in Germany next year. I am already thinking about doing my graduate studies in the U.S. because I really liked the university system there. The time in the U.S really got me into traveling so I also want to see more of the world. But it also inspires me to learn as much as possible different cultures and topics other than my major study topic.
[Questions: Inga Schulze-Velmede, UAS7 New York Intern]
Info
Students enrolled at UAS7 universities are eligible to study at one of the UAS7 partner universities in the U.S. for one term each year. Further information is available on our website or at the International Offices of our seven universities.