A new phase of our studies began for us in mid-September 2025. After three years at HSLU, we wanted to broaden our horizons and started the dual-degree program at Tongji University in Shanghai, China.
At the Institute of the Chinese-German University of Applied Sciences (CDHAW), we were able to start this exchange year together with around 60 German fellow students. These exchange students are spread across four fields of study: Automotive Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering and Building Services Engineering.
There are also some things that remain similar on the other side of the world. For example, the manageable proportion of building technology students, which consisted of seven Chinese, two German and two Swiss students.
As part of various modules in the field of energy optimization, energy networks and carbon reduction, we attended various lecture modules together with the Chinese students and worked on several projects. The exchange with the local students not only provided professional insights, but also new approaches.
In addition to studying, there is time to explore the country and its culture whenever possible. During Golden Week (National Day), we were drawn to the north-east of China. There were also plenty of opportunities for weekend excursions, both in the immediate vicinity of the big city of Shanghai and further afield.
With the completion of the first semester at the beginning of January, the next phase of the stay began after the semester break: the practical semester and the writing of the Bachelor’s thesis.
From the Middle Kingdom
Damian Meier & Patrick Bösch
