One Year of Master's Studies in Winterthur – «Where Engineering Meets Real-World Experience»
A strong focus on applied learning, interactive teaching and a welcoming campus environment made Alexandra Blaschek's exchange year in the Master's programme at ZHAW a valuable academic and personal experience. She shares her highlights and recommendations for future exchange students.
Alexandra, you completed an exchange year at ZHAW School of Engineering. How did you like your stay?
My exchange year at ZHAW School of Engineering broadened my horizons both academically and personally. Through interdisciplinary lectures, collaborative learning with friends, and contact with students from many different cultural backgrounds, I quickly felt integrated into the ZHAW community.
What particularly impressed you about studying at the ZHAW?
One aspect I particularly appreciate about ZHAW is its strong focus on applied research and real-world relevance. This was evident throughout my courses, where theoretical concepts were consistently connected to practical engineering applications.
Furthermore, the professor made a remarkable effort to create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere by learning each student’s name and even remembering our language preferences. This personal approach created a strong sense of community within the class.
«I especially enjoyed the the Smart Systems module, as it combined the theoretical knowledge taught in the course with hands-on experience during two laboratory sessions and a visit to the headquarters of Siemens.»
Were there major differences compared to your home university?
One of the most noticeable differences from my home university is the structure of the tutorial sessions. There, exercises are usually prepared independently at home and then presented by one of the students in class. Alternatively, assignments are completed in groups and submitted for grading.
«In contrast, the tutorial sessions at ZHAW follow a different approach: They allow students to work through exercises independently while also having the opportunity to ask questions and receive immediate feedback. Thus, I found this format especially helpful.»
Were you also able to see some of Switzerland in your free time?
Excursions connected to the lectures, as well as time spent with my new friends, allowed me to discover different parts of Switzerland, including Brugg-Windisch, Lucerne and Zug. One of my personal highlights was attending the traditional “Sechseläuten” celebration in Zurich. Watching the “Böögg” burn, sharing marshmallows around the fire and experiencing this unique Swiss tradition alongside new friends made for an unforgettable cultural experience.
«Combining academic activities with opportunities to discover Switzerland and its traditions made studying particularly enjoyable»
How could we further strengthen the international community for future students?
The exchange experience was enriched by the friendships I formed with students from all over the world. Looking ahead, I believe that additional social events for exchange students in both Winterthur and Zurich could further strengthen these connections.
An informal intercultural food event, where students bring small snacks representing their home countries, could be a simple yet meaningful way to promote cultural exchange and create lasting memories.
What's your takeaway?
Overall, my exchange year has been an extremely rewarding experience. I greatly appreciate the opportunity to study at ZHAW, expand my academic knowledge, and discover new sides of Switzerland that were previously unfamiliar to me. I am very much looking forward to visiting Switzerland again as a tourist in the future.
Alexandra Blaschek
Place of residence: Bezirk St. Pölten-Land
Home university: Technische Universität Wien
Degree programme home university: Computational Science and Engineering
Degree programme at ZHAW: Master of Science in Engineering, Profile: Computer Science