Two Paths – One Double Degree
As part of the Double Degree programme between the ZHAW School of Engineering and Victoria University of Wellington (VUW), Thamena Essahaty and Joël Bieli spent a year navigating new academic systems, unfamiliar cultures and their own expectations. With outcomes that went beyond earning two master’s degrees, they told us how a new form of ice cream unexpectedly marked a turning point and how mountains help get away from screens – also in New Zealand.
A decision that didn’t feel obvious – at first
As the collaboration between the ZHAW School of Engineering and Victoria University of Wellington is quite new, the Double Degree did not start as a long-held plan for either of them.
Thamena, from New Zealand, hadn’t actively considered studying abroad until the opportunity landed in her inbox. “To be honest, I wasn’t thinking about the possibility of study abroad until some of the coordinators reached out about the opportunity.” Switzerland’s reputation for quality of life, combined with ZHAW’s strong practical focus and industry proximity, quickly made the option hard to ignore.
Joël’s path was even more understated. “My supervisor asked if I’d be interested in an exchange, and before I really processed it, I was in a meeting where seemingly everyone assumed I’d already said yes. Wellington looked walkable, close to nature – and far away enough to feel like a genuine change. So why not?”
First impressions: unfamiliar, but intriguing
Arriving on the other side of the world rarely feels smooth – and both remember their first days vividly, albeit differently.
For Thamena, it was winter in Switzerland, supermarket prices, and wandering through Winterthur and Zurich in awe.“I remember trying desperately to stay warm and sending home many unsolicited reports of cost-of-living comparisons.”
Joël, on the other hand, was struck by how green New Zealand felt. “Most trees don’t lose their leaves in winter here like they do in Zurich.” Wellington’s mix of urban life, nature and slightly unexpected campus fashion trends (“Y2K vibes”) made an immediate impression.
Studying abroad: different structures, shared standards
Academically, the Double Degree doesn’t mean starting from scratch – but it does mean adapting.
Thamena noticed clear structural differences between the universities. At Victoria University of Wellington, fewer modules allow for deeper focus. At ZHAW, a broader module mix creates room for exploration. “ZHAW allows you to diversify more. You get greater theoretical exposure, and specialisation is mostly reserved for projects.”
Joël experienced something else: familiarity. “Nothing stood out as dramatically different – which was actually reassuring.” The comparable teaching quality made it easier to focus on content rather than constantly adjusting to a new system.
Projects, research and unexpected directions
For Thamena, project work became one of the most defining elements of her stay.
“If you told me a year ago I’d be working on deep learning for medical imaging and radio astronomy, I’m not sure whether I would’ve laughed or cried.”
Her master’s thesis, co-supervised by both universities, revolves around deep learning for radio astronomy data. “I get to stargaze all day and call it research.”
Joël is writing his thesis at VUW, navigating familiar research challenges: debugging, training runs, deadlines approaching. “Right now it’s mostly heads-down work mode.”
Different topics, different rhythms – but the same sense of academic ownership.
Outside the lecture hall: moments that stay
Some of the most impactful experiences happened far away from classrooms.
For Joël, it was hiking up Mount Taranaki: “The weather was good, the views were great, and we walked through clouds for a bit. Nice to get away from the screen.”
For Thamena, the moment was smaller – and unforgettable: “I had a mind-blowing bowl of Spaghettieis in South Tyrol and now consider myself a changed woman.”
Both moments say something essential: the Double Degree is intense, but it leaves room for discovery beyond academics.
Learning about a country – and about yourself
Living abroad sharpened their awareness of cultural nuances. Joël was pleased by how present Māori and Pacific cultures are in everyday university life in New Zealand – he enjoyed seeing hakas at university events and Samoan dances at a graduation ceremony.
Thamena noticed how strongly seasons shape life in Switzerland. “The whole atmosphere changes palpably with the seasons. Festivals, food, activities – it makes time feel tangible.”
Also, on a personal level, they both experienced growth. Thamena reflects on distance, independence and the confidence that comes with navigating challenges on her own.
“I now have a stronger sense of self – and a much better understanding of what actually matters to me. Beyond its value for experience and career opportunities, the qualification also allowed me to prove to myself that I was capable of achieving it.”
Joël realised how much structure he relies on.
“Moving to the other side of the planet forced me to rebuild my routines from scratch. Figuring out where I work best, how I structure my days, what helps me think. It forced me to be more intentional about designing my environment rather than just adapting to whatever's there.”
Two degrees – but one shared experience
The Double Degree is, by definition, an exchange. Thamena and Joël met in Zurich, attended some classes together and stayed in touch throughout the year.
“It was comforting to know there was someone out there having a similar, albeit opposite, experience.”
Sometimes that exchange is about academic tips. Sometimes it’s about knowing someone gets it.
Thamena Essahaty
Place of residence: Wellington, New Zealand
Home university: Victoria University of Wellington (VUW)
Joël Bieli
Place of residence: Winterthur, Switzerland
Home university: ZHAW School of Engineering