Open FIESTA | IID Class of 2022 | Zeyu Chen (陈泽宇)

As a Tsinghua graduate student, I joined an exchange program at Technische Universität München (TUM). It expanded my horizons and fostered personal growth. I hope my journey inspires others to explore similar opportunities.

01 Academics: Knowledge Exchange and Creative Inspiration

“Compared to studying in China, classes here focus more on encouraging students to ask questions and explore diverse solutions.”

TUM, one of Europe’s top research universities, stands out for its rigorous academics, diverse courses, and global outlook. Located in Munich, southern Germany’s largest city, it offers seamless campus commutes via an efficient subway system.

I majored in Informatics, with classes split between the city center and Garching campuses. TUM courses include Lectures, Seminars, and Practical Courses. Lectures deliver knowledge, Seminars foster team discussions, and Practical Courses focus on project-based learning with PhD guidance. Different from the common course structure of chinese university, TUM emphasizes more on questioning and exploring solutions, focusing more on “inspiring.”

As an exchange student, I have prioritized diverse courses, collaborating with culturally diverse classmates in Seminars and Practical Courses taught adaptive problem-solving, joining a research group further sharpened my skills and built a solid academic foundation.

02 Life: Embracing Diversity and Finding Inner Peace

“When I heard a foreign friend say ‘Add me on WeChat’ in fluent Chinese, I truly felt the cultural bond behind language.”

When I arrived in Munich, the unfamiliar language and culture felt overwhelming. Soon, I adapted and embraced this open, diverse city. Life here is slower than in China’s fast-paced cities. Shops close early, and Sundays are for relaxing. This slower rhythm taught me to plan with balance and calm.

Beyond studying, I explored Munich’s nature and culture. The nearby Alps offered great hiking and stunning views. Weekends were for trails with friends, combining exercise and scenery. Festivals like Oktoberfest and campus events let me experience Germany’s vibrant, joyful lifestyle.

German classes and Language Cafe events helped me connect with people from around the world. I used simple German daily and learned about other cultures through language exchanges. These interactions improved my skills, expanded my perspective, and deepened my respect for diversity. Hearing “Add me on WeChat” in perfect Chinese showed me how languages build connections.Cooking became a surprising challenge and joy. With high dining costs, I learned to cook. It saved money, fostered independence, and taught self-discipline.

03 Travel: Growth and Self-Discovery on the Road

“From the grandeur of the Alps to the blue of the Mediterranean, every journey amazed me with the world’s diversity.”

During my exchange, I explored several European countries. Trips to the Alps and Mediterranean deepened my appreciation for diversity.

Backpacking introduced me to like-minded travelers and new perspectives. Many Europeans and Latin Americans prioritize passions over external judgments. This inspired me to reflect on my choices, rediscover balance, and reconnect with what I truly love.

04 Reflections and Advice: Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone

The value of an exchange lies beyond academics—it’s about discovering the world and unlocking potential. Embrace the journey fully, setting aside utilitarian goals.

You’ll find true friends, grow unexpectedly, and create lasting memories. My TUM exchange boosted global competence and strengthened Open FIESTA’s focus on collaboration and innovation.Engaging with peers and learning from diverse cultures became my core strengths. I am proud of this journey and eager to inspire others to step out, embrace challenges, and explore life’s possibilities.

05 Gratitude and Future Aspirations

Finally, I sincerely thank Tsinghua SIGS, Tsinghua Open FIESTA and Technische Universität München for this incredible opportunity. I am also deeply grateful to my mentors and friends who supported me throughout the journey. Moving forward, I aim to apply these valuable experiences to my research, contribute to global collaboration and innovation, and continue exploring uncharted academic territories.