Hello again everyone! My name is Max Rimdzius, and I’m studying in Munich through the Engineering the German Way program. During my study abroad trip, I am attending the University of Munich Applied Sciences. This university is located in the northwestern part of Munich but is still easily accessible by the local trains and trams. Munich has three main universities, each specializing in different degree programs. The Applied Sciences University is the engineering school in Munich, focusing on Industrial and Automotive Engineering. The teaching staff for our classes are very fluent in English and are making the program run smoothly with interesting lectures as well as interactive tours and trips.

The neighborhood where I’m staying during my trip is referred to as Deutsches Museum. This is a small area located on the southern side of the city, but it’s only a mile from the main attractions like the Munich Cathedral and Marienplatz. The hotel is also located near the Isar River, which makes for a nice walk or just sightseeing. The area around the hotel, and everywhere I’ve been in Munich so far, feels very safe. I’ve enjoyed the area we’re staying, mainly because it’s not the busiest part of the city. It allows me to be comfortable, and it’s not as noisy as other parts of Munich. I also appreciate that we are very close to many small bakeries and shops. Almost all of the restaurants are family owned, which makes for a unique experience at every location.

I am beginning to get used to my living situation; however, the time change in Germany has been more difficult to adapt to than I originally thought. I left the United States in the early evening and with the time change, arrived in Germany in the early morning of the next day. This led to me having to correct my sleep schedule, which is not quite as easy as it sounds. It is also difficult to contact loved ones at home due to both the time difference and limited internet availability. The hotel itself is quite nice, however, and is updated and clean.

There are both similarities and differences between the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Munich Applied Sciences. A few similarities would be the commitment to learning and the lecture style. There are other similarities, like the student experience with a cafe on site, as well as the use of technology in the classroom. Some key differences would be the number of students, as Pitt seems to have a much busier campus, and the lack of air conditioning here, which is not ideal for students trying to work.

As an Industrial Engineering student, I became interested in the supply chain field. I love to plan and think through complex problems and knew that I would be a perfect fit for a supply chain role. This summer, I will be working at Zurn Elkay Water Solutions in Erie, Pennsylvania. Some key skills and strengths necessary for this would be the ability to plan ahead, analytical thinking, as well as project management. I look forward to this internship; however, I will enjoy the rest of my time in Munich until then!