Testimonials from outgoing students
This is what DeKUT students who had an opportunity to go on exchange to other countries had to say about their experiences:
Moses Mwangi Kangethe
My name is Moses Mwangi Kangethe, a fourth-year Mechatronics Engineering student. In June of this year, I embarked on a four-month adventure in Merseburg, Germany, as a mobile robotics intern at Merseburg University of Applied Science, which was a stint originally meant to last just three months but was too good I got an additional month. This internship was a pivotal step in my career, allowing me to develop critical skills in robotics and project management.
My days were filled with hands-on work in teleoperation, navigation, and sensor integration, working on projects with the TurtleBot3 Robotics Kit and AuRa, an autonomous cargo bike, which was a collaborative project with another German University, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg. I am talking about development of a bicycle that is more or less self-aware; can navigate unmanned, through busy streets, and drive up to your location, or any other set location! I was literally working on bleeding-edge technology, a level of exposure that I would not have otherwise attained. I was neck-deep in the (Robotic Operating System) ROS2 framework, orchestrating complex data from Lidar and RGB-Depth cameras, simultaneously mapping and localizing(SLAM) with all the finesse of a self-driving car. Each challenge I encounteredand solvedfueled my fascination for autonomous systems and proved to me that real-world robotics is equal parts thrill and troubleshooting.
But the true adventure went far beyond robotics! Working with colleagues from Germany, Ghana, Bulgaria, and China, I found myself immersed in a rich cultural mix that made every day an exciting blend of perspectives. From learning the quirks of German efficiency to navigating daylight hours that seemed to last forever (a shock to someone more accustomed to punctual sunsets), the cultural experience was eye-opening. I even learned that “on time” could have slightly different meanings depending on where someone was from, being that the German version of it meant being 10 minutes earlier. The collaboration and cultural exchange we shared brought a depth to my work that went beyond just technical knowledge.
Embracing Diversity and Learning on the Rails: My Internship Journey in Deutschland
From the silent streets of Zittau to the bustling railway stations of Deutsche Bahn, my internship in Germany was a journey filled with great unexpected encounters and invaluable lessons.
My fascination with Germany’s rich history and innovative engineering drew me to pursue an internship in this captivating country. Inspired by the experiences of other IAESTE members who had ventured through similar paths, I embarked on a journey that would not only expand my professional horizons but also enrich my understanding of different cultures.
Nestled in the picturesque region bordering Poland and the Czech Republic, Zittau welcomed me with its quaint charm and vibrant community. It was here that I encountered my most defining moment in my internship – a meeting with Dr. Daniela Gerd, a distinguished figure in the realm of railway technology. As a member of the Management Board for Digitalization and Technology in Deutsche Bahn, Dr. Gerd’s insights into the future of digital railway systems left an indelible mark on my understanding of the industry.
Throughout my internship, I delved into the intricate workings of railway transport infrastructure, with a particular focus on the expansion of digital systems in Germany. From digitalization to automation in the planning and operation of command control and signaling, each project and task provided a deeper insight into the complexities of modernizing one of the world’s most renowned railway networks.
Yet, amidst the technical challenges and professional growth, it was the unexpected encounters that truly shaped my experience. Adjusting to life in a foreign land, I found solace in the camaraderie of fellow interns hailing from diverse corners of the globe. Together, we navigated language barriers and cultural differences, forging bonds that transcended borders and enriched our perspectives.
Beyond the confines of my internship, Germany’s central location offered boundless opportunities for exploration. From skiing adventures in the Ore mountains in Saxony to traversing the historic streets and museums of neighboring countries such as Austria, Czech Republic, The Netherlands, and Poland. Each excursion provided a glimpse into the rich tapestry of European culture and history.
Reflecting on my time in Germany, I am grateful for the invaluable lessons learned and the friendships forged. My internship exceeded all expectations, challenging me to embrace diversity, foster teamwork, and broaden my horizons. To those considering a similar journey, I offer this advice: seize the opportunity, embrace the unknown, and embark on a transformative adventure that will shape your future in ways you never imagined possible.
As I bid farewell to Germany, I carry with me memories of a journey filled with growth, discovery, and the enduring spirit of camaraderie. Though my time as an intern may have come to an end, the lessons learned and experiences gained will continue to guide me on the rails of life’s journey.
I will forever be grateful to IAESTE Kenya and DEKUT for the great opportunity and as they say it here, Danke schön!!
Prague, Czech Republic
Vienna, Austria
Zittau Mountains, Germany
MY INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE IN SWITZZERLAND
Switzerland, a land famous for its precision and natural beauty, has become the backdrop of my memorable internship. Throughout this journey, I got into a world of innovation and efficiency. This article reflects on my internship experience in Switzerland, focusing on professional growth, cultural immersion, personal reflections, achievements in research and extracurricular activities.
My internship exposed me to the Swiss dedication to precision. I learned firsthand the value of precision in achieving top quality collaborating with Swiss professionals and from other countries as well and learned how attention to detail drives efficiency and excellence.
My internship is providing opportunities to engage with cutting-edge technologies and research practices. Whether working on innovative projects or attending workshops, I continue to be challenged to expand my skills. Collaborating with a diverse team has enriched my understanding and fostered creativity, highlighting the importance of varied perspectives in problem-solving.
Switzerland’s commitment to research and innovation is evident in its advancements and development of developing eco-friendly in insulation materials. I have the privilege of contributing to projects exploring materials for insulation, aiming for improved efficiency and sustainability. Witnessing the intersection of chemistry and engineering in developing insulation solutions is both enlightening and inspiring. Collaborating with experts in the field, I try to contribute to experiments and analyses aimed at enhancing the thermal efficiency and durability of insulation materials. Trying to develop solutions for sustainable construction is both enlightening and inspiring.
Beyond work, Switzerland has offered rich cultural experiences. I had the privileged to witness this enchanting cultural celebration often called the carnival, which provided a delightful contrast to the country’s reputation for orderliness. One of the most memorable aspects of experiencing the Swiss Carnival was witnessing the creativity and ingenuity displayed in the costumes and floats from the Swiss residents. Exploring Swiss nature and hiking in the Alps has provided glimpses into the country’s heritage and natural beauty. Interacting with locals and navigating daily life in a multicultural environment has broadened my perspective and continue to enhance my adaptability.
Engaging in extracurricular activities further enriched my internship experience. Participating in sports events and language exchange programs allowed me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. These experiences not only complemented my professional growth but also my personal connections and cultural understanding.
My internship in Switzerland has been a transformative journey of self-discovery and growth. Stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing challenges has strengthened my resilience and adaptability. The lessons learned, both professionally and personally, has already undoubtedly shape my future endeavours and aspirations.
I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and lessons already gained. From professional growth to cultural immersion, each moment has contributed to my development. Switzerland’s commitment to precision, coupled with its vibrant culture and spirit of innovation, is already leaving an indelible mark on my journey. I carry with me not only cherished memories, but also invaluable lessons learned.
Allan Waithira
Salaam Aleikum!
I recently finished my coursework in Bsc. Mechatronic Engineering. I am currently doing my internship at the University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, under the IASTE program. I am happy to say that this is the second internship I am doing with IASTE. Last year, I did my external attachment at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany. While working there, I had immense interaction with European people and culture.
At the University of Sharjah, I work with a group of researchers fromthe Nuclear Energy System Simulation and Safety Group. I am researching the development of a preliminary RVE model for hydride Zry-4 considering the parameters of orientation and volume of fraction (concentration) of the embedded hydride. During nuclear reactor operation, hydrogen precipitate ingress into the cladding. As a result of temperature and pressure changes, the hydride particles settle around the circumference of the cladding. A radial orientation of the hydrides results in changes in the cladding’s mechanical properties, such as embrittlement. This increases the likelihood of cladding failure during transportation and storage. As such, there is a need to study the effects of hydride formation and mechanical property changes of cladding.
My research project has also been accepted for the 30th International Conference on Nuclear Engineering to be held next year in Kyoto, Japan.
Kenya seeks to establish its first nuclear power plant by 2038. My internship here prepares me to be a part of the team that will realize the Development of carbon-free, sustainable, and adequate energy that will fuel our production capacity in pursuit of Kenya’s plight for economic success. Learning about the safety of nuclear power plants helps engineers reduce the chances of emitting harmful radiation or catastrophic accidents in nuclear power plants, as once happened in Chornobyl and Fukushima.
While at DedanKimathi University, I met and interacted with visiting students at IASTE club and personal levels. I gladly shared my culture with them during cookouts, visits to wildlife conservation parks, visits to local communities, and hikes. While outside my country, I get to learn and experience new cultures from all over the world. Ranked the top university in UAE this year, the University of Sharjah is culturally divergent, with students from all over the world travelling here for their studies. In an equal measure, being here helps me appreciate my culture even more. UAE is an amazing country with a vibrant economy and business booming from the skyscrapers of Dubai to the deserts of Abu Dhabi.
I am utterly grateful to DedanKimathi University of Technology for creating a platform for students to explore their educational and cultural aspects further into the world, crucial ingredients of a wholistic student. I am also grateful to the entire IASTE fraternity at University of Sharjah for their welcoming heart.
As IASTE celebrates its 75 years of existence, I am proud to be a beneficiary of the program in multiple ways. It has connected me with people on research frontiers and helped me interact with diverse cultures from all over the world. In one sentence, I would say that IASTE is a flashing flame, and now a fast-burning fire, spreading true to the meaning of International Exchange.
Vivian Muiruri
‘The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams’ a friend always reminded me. Exploring the world while improving technical skills in engineering has been a dream come true for the very many tenacious students with IAESTE, and myself being a testament.
In Switzerland, I worked at Empa, the Swiss Federal Laboratories, the under Acoustic and Noise Control department for six months. I tested the damping properties of particles on wooden structures based on the mass and the measured data from a prototype. In comparison of the results to the bigger setup room, I understood the vibrational damping of a mass spring damper systemfrom theory. To analyze the results from my measurement further, I did modal analysis of the wooden prototype at the lower frequencies to get the different modes that occur on the structure once the box becomes excited.
With my internship in Switzerland, I had the chance to try different cuisines of the Swiss culture, with the mostdelectable being the fondue during the winter. However, I must say, snow was my most thrilling experience of winter, snow sledding and skiing, escapades, in one of the most beautiful country during winter, with the divine, spectacular view of The Alps. I, by and large, had the chance to visit several countries like Rome, The Vatican City, the Spanish steps, and as recommended, the Roman Pizza was heavenly. In Paris, France, The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and The Palace of Versailles. I made several day trips to Germany, Constance, and Milano in particular.
Experiencing the different cities in Switzerland, Zurich, Bern, Basel, and Geneva amongst others would not have been possible without Iaeste. I am very grateful for the opportunity to meet and interact with the multi-cultural community in and out of Empa to learn and maybe teach what I, we need to make my country, and the world a better place even with tiny steps made by all of us.
Mutai Kiprono Isaiah
From: Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Kenya.
Internship Institution: Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), Switzerland.
Department: Materials and Systems: Building Acoustics
- Experience of being abroad all by myself
The experience of being in Switzerland was fascinating, a culture in which time, punctuality and efficiency is of high importance. Having been in Germany before, adapting to the life in Switzerland was much easier; thanks also to the IAESTE Switzerland and IAESTE Zurich local committee’s organized forums, such as joined communication groups and weekly meetings, that made sharing of information easier and efficient for the interns in Switzerland. - Experience at work
The most touching experience was with my supervisor at Empa, Sven Vallely, all the way from the time of the interview, to the end of the internship. He was very supportive. From arriving at the airport in Zurich, having never met before and not knowing me, he stood at the airport exit with a paper having my name, in order to identify me and pick me at the airport. It was the best experience that made me feel at home in a foreign land, great love and support to the interns! With little experience in acoustics computer simulations, he offered to train me in detail prior to the start of the assignments. This training offered me a solid foundation, which made us achieve the objectives of the internship within the allocated time.
The opportunity to work as an intern at Empa was one that offered great exposure and efficient transfer of multiple skills to me as a research student. I worked at the Laboratory for Acoustics and Noise Control, in the building acoustics section of the Materials and Systems department. The work involved vibro-acoustic simulation using finite element software, Ansys Mechanical. The simulation was followed by laboratory experiments, modal fitting to extract modal parameters and finally model updating. It was an exciting journey of discovery of the power of finite element analysis (FEA) and use of technology to achieve critical insight regarding acoustics and noise control.
Additionally, the work on collaborative programming with my supervisor was an opportunity to sharpen my Python programming skills and improve my knowledge and skills on MATLAB programming. Indeed, the internship gave me opportunity to work in a high-tech and results oriented environment, with opportunity to contribute in the team as well as to learn from the team. - Experience with IAESTE
My overall experience with IAESTE in Switzerland was superb! The great support, and ease of settling in Switzerland was made possible by IAESTE. All the processes of getting the contract to having visa and work permit was seamless. As an intern through IAESTE, I received full support, both from the local authorities and at work place. The advantages of the internship through IAESTE were the ease of identifying open internship opportunities, and the simplicity of applying as well, all through the IAESTE website. To me, IAESTE is more than just exchange of students for technical experience, it is indeed a body that helps in exposing the students worldwide to diverse working cultures, and is an eye opener to students on their potentials in their career paths. Through IAESTE, I learnt that my skills were not limited to my country but can be utilized anywhere in the world. Additionally, IASETE widens the network for career opportunities for the students in the future, beyond the borders of their countries. It is my hope that all the institutions in my country will join IAESTE in order to offer their students these wonderful opportunities through the exchange.
Lelan Kiplimo
Bsc. Mechatronics Engineering
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Kenya.
This is Lelan Sammy Kiplimo and I graduated last year from DeKUT with a Mechatronics Engineering degree. After my graduation, I got the opportunity to do an internship in Paderborn, Germany which was really successful and great in all aspects.Through this opportunity with IAESTE, I was able to apply for a masters course here and was accepted and I came back to Germany towards the end of March.
I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity I got through IAESTE and to point out that it is not just an opportunity for a few months or 12 months at most as most students think. It can really expose someone to multiple opportunities and experiences. I hope this can motivate more students and I will be available if the International Office needs me to help out with anything. Thanks!
Amon Cheruiyot
Bsc. Mechanical Engineering
Technical University Of Munich.
I was attached at the Institute under DAAD-IAESTE internship program and the project I was assigned involved: Familiarization with multi-stepadditive manufacturing technologies, Involvement in the construction and setup of an extruder print head to mix a binding media with raw powder material; Programming of the control unit for an extrusion-based printer prototype; Fabrication of green parts (samples consisting of binder and powder material) for material testing.The internship basically involved 3D printing an additive technology used to manufacture parts. Read More>>
Vincent Boon
Newton Ollenso
Bachelor of Education in Technology (Electrical & Electronics Engineering).
Artorg Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, Switzerland.
Jackline Asango
Bsc. Mechatronic Engineering.
Technical University of Chemnitz, Germany
My name is Jackline Asango, a recent Mechatronic Engineering graduate in Dedan Kimathi University of Technology. Last year I had the opportunity to work as an intern in Technical University of Chemnitz, Germany under the IAESTE program in our school. I can say I had an amazing experience both academically and culturally. Read More>>
Celestine Kathure
Bsc. Mechanical Engineering.
TU Berlin, Germany
The internship benefited me professionally and socially as it subjected me to working with people from different countries and professional levels. The tough tasks improved my resilience and equipped me with technical and interpersonal skills. I have also acquired a fresh insight on technology and software systems.
Sophia Mithika
Bsc Mechatronic Engineeering.
Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences, Germany.
The exchange programme was an impactful experience as it broadened my mind and demystified cultures that are different from my own.
Cornelius Kipkemoi
Bsc.Mechanical Engineering.
University of Hannover, Germany.
The technical skills I got have made me competent, Germany being the most developed and industrialized country in the world. I have gained more passion and motivation towards my aspiration for furthering my studies.
Lorraine Muga
Bsc. Mechanical Engineering.
Xylem Water Solutions, Sweden.
The internship gave me an international exposure and experience on how to conduct myself in a professional environment. This was also a chance to meet new friends and an opportunity to travel the world and make great memories.
Gloria Odira
BSc. Civil Engineering
Xylem Water Solutions, Sweden.
It was indeed a memorable experience. I went through hands-on skill capacity building in truss bridge design, static and dynamic analysis of truss bridge and pre-stressed concrete technology. Each professor was assigned at least three labs. Here, I learnt that Japan Education System emphasizes on practical and problem solving approach. Students have direct and close interaction with their lecturers. It was very inspirational. I also learnt how designs cater for earthquake, tsunami and other strong winds like typhoons, as well as infernos. I learnt to be happy, positive, responsible, thankful, courteous and efficient (time conscious). The Japanese experience is like no other!
Mwangi Sam Kamau
BSc. Information Technology
Graz, Austria.
IAESTE is the best experience one can get in their entire life in campus. They give an Internship opportunity beyond the borders. I traveled to Austria for my Internship for three months during the summer period; end of July to October. I worked for a Construction company in Graz, Austria where I majored in software engineering. During this period, I worked as a Junior Software Developer in programming software for logistics purposes in C# language. I gained a better experience in writing clean code and learning other Libraries in Visual Studio. Anyway, let me spare you the geek terminologies.
Well, other than getting more knowledge, there is a whole better life in gaining friends and traveling to different places that one has always dreamt of. The best thing you get a stipend to help you manage to live there.
If you are still in campus or waiting to join campus this is the club to join.
Testimonials from incoming students
This is what students who were hosted on exchange in DeKUT had to say about their experience in our University:
Meshash Yamoal
Department of Electrical & Electronics Engineering.
Kwame Nkurumah University of Science & Technology.
Ole Eberson
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering
RWTH Aachen University, Germany.
When I was first introduced to my work at DeKUT, I was somewhat surprised, because I expected to get a task that benefits the University in some way. Instead I was instructed to do lab work like other students do. After the initial surprise I realized that for me personally this approach to internship was better than my first thought. I already learnt the theory about most topics the lab dealt with in my German University. In German Universities we do very little practical work, my impression at DeKUT was that great value is set on gaining practical experience with the subjects taught. This style of teaching benefited me since I now have a better overview of how different university teaching is internationally and of course because I personally gained a lot of practical experience we do not get in Germany. I was surprised at how well equipped the labs are. The good equipment adds up with the importance given to practical work. I really enjoyed my stay at DeKUT; I learnt a lot about engineering as well as cultural and academic differences compared to Germany. I am very grateful I got the opportunity to complete this internship and stay at DeKUT for 8 weeks.
Calum Watkins
Mechatronics Engineering
University of Strathclyde, United Kingdom.
My time in Kenya was wonderful. I discovered my love for the music, food and most importantly people. It has been great to play hockey for the university and teach some Scottish dance. I also enjoyed travelling and working at the Mechatronics Department at DeKUT.
Maria Graule
Food Science and Bioresources Technology
Germany.
I learnt a lot about coffee, but the benefits for me was the cultural exchange and all the friends I now have in Kenya.
Lena Pohl
Food Science and Bioresources Technology
Austria.
The internship gave me an opportunity to get a good overview of the agricultural methods used in Kenya and learnt about coffee production.