Connor Walsh's experience in Hamburg, Germany

Four students in a park throwing the VT hand-sign.

Connor Walsh had the experience of a lifetime on his semester abroad as a participant in the HAW VT Exchange program in Hamburg, Germany. When Connor was a freshman, he knew that studying abroad was something he wanted to experience, but he was afraid he would never find a program. When he found out about the opportunity at HAW, he was ecstatic to be able to participate.

A canal with brick buildings on either side.

Connor made so many memories during his semester abroad, but one of his favorites was hanging out with his friends in the dorm kitchen and meeting people from all over the world. After reflecting on his experience, Connor noted the difference in course structure at HAW. There were no homework assignments or midterms, just a final exam. This forced Connor to change his study habits, but he found it beneficial because this structure allowed him to learn so much more.

Students sit on the grass in a circle and look at the camera.

Connor strongly recommends studying abroad to other engineering students. He acknowledged that adapting to a new country can be challenging, but it truly is a very rewarding experience. Overall, he would encourage students to challenge themselves and embark on a similar journey because you can learn so much about yourself and the world we live in. He is even planning to return to Europe in a few months to visit one of the friends he made while abroad!

A student abroad looks up at the greenery.