Field of study in Wageningen: Management- and Consumer Studies
Study period exchange: 01/04/2019 until 01/09/2019
Country (exchange): Germany
City (exchange): München
University (exchange): Technical University of Munich
Faculty (exchange): Faculty of Management and Technology
2. Motivation for exchange
Why did you choose to go on study exchange?
TUM is very good in it’s field in supply chain management and modelling department.
What is the reason you chose for this country/university?
Germany has always interested me, and I was keen to learn better German.
3. Accessibility to reach destination
Do you have any tips to reach your exchange destination?
Flixbuses are actually very affordable and you can actually take your bike with you as well.
4. University and studying
Could you provide some general information about the followed courses?
How is the study formalized?
There are two types of classes in Munich: seminar and regular courses. Seminars are heavily guided by professor and they go very into dept. Usually you will have multiple hands-on assignment. Keep in mind that these seminar take up a lot of time during the semester but there is no exam, your assignment will determine your final grade. A maximum of one or two seminars is recommended. Other classes are very similar to WUR.
What is the culture of the university?
Professors are generally less approachable then in Wageningen, there is a distance between the professor and the student. Students, ‘clap’ after each lecture by knocking their fists on the table, a very strange sight the first few times but you will get used to it ?. Students are however very approachable, as well as younger professors.
What does the university offer the student additionally?
The university offer a ‘mensa’ it is a big canteen with warm food. The food is cheap but not really tasty, usually it is very salty. It offers sport facilities which are quite nice.
5. Housing-travelling-living
What are the possibilities for housing?
The University only offers limited rooms for Erasmus students(from Europe). So, do not expect to get a room from the university. Usually people have to look for one on their on the private market. Which can get very expensive, keep in mind that Munich is a rich city with a big room-shortage. I used medici-living to find my room, it is quite expensive but trustworthy and your room is already furnished.
Could you give a general price indication of the place of residence compared to living in Wageningen?
Apart from the room prices which are crazy, eating, drinking and other activities are relatively cheap. Since Munich is the city of beer, this is especially cheap. A main course just outside the city will cost you around 12-15 euro’s. Groceries are also a bit cheaper versus the Netherlands.
Could you give some information about public transport infrastructure?
When you sign up for TUM you will get public transport from 6PM till 4AM for free during the weekdays, and the whole weekend for free. If you pay around 200 Euro you will also have free PT during regular hours for the semester.
6. Free time
What are must-sees in the area?
The alpes are really close and a must visit! Also try to find some nice beergardens to chill in. The Isar is also great for a nice BBQ in the summer evening.
Do you have general tips and tricks about leisure time?
Some museum in Munich are 1,- entrance on Sundays which is really nice. Also, the ESN department from TUM organizes some really nice activities. Such as weekend trips, rafting, parties etc. Which are usually organized by German students and fairly cheap!
7. Challenges & best moment abroad
What was a challenge you have experienced?
Finding a room was definitely a challenge and I would recommend to start early!
What was your best memory abroad?
All the laid back evenings in the Englischer garten with a bbq and a cold beer, enjoying the company of people from all over the world.
8. Contact details
Would you ask Laurens more questions?
Send a mail: Laurens.buijs@wur.nl or Facebook/LinkedIN.