Study abroad and get one step closer to your dream career

Marcus Owoh is studying for a Master's degree in Commercial Vehicle Technology at RPTU. His passion for cars and electromobility led him from Nigeria to Germany. He has now been in Kaiserslautern for four semesters - time for a look back.

"Even as a child, I wanted to know how cars work and how they are built. My interest was certainly sparked by toy cars and go-karting. After school, I therefore studied electrical engineering in Nigeria. After that, I really wanted to do a master's degree in mechanical engineering and automobility. There is also such a Master's course in Nigeria - but Germany is far ahead in automotive engineering. It was clear to me: I would study abroad and do my Master's in Germany."

From students for students: Exchange at eye level

"When I was looking for an opportunity to study abroad, I came across RPTU in Kaiserslautern. It's a university with beautiful surroundings and low living costs for students. An added bonus: it is very close to France and I had always wanted to travel to Paris. So I contacted the International Office at RPTU in Kaiserslautern for my application. That was the best thing that could have happened to me for my studies. After I had sent my documents to the International Office, they organized everything so that I could study abroad: from a place in student accommodation to German courses. I immediately felt that I was in good hands, which impressed me.

When a position as a student assistant was advertised at the International Office, I jumped at the chance. Because I want to convey this good feeling to other international students. I want to take away their fears when they want to study abroad. Among other things, I am the contact person for international students, give them tips for the next steps and can report from my own experience. I know what it feels like to study abroad on your own."

Studying abroad: Mastering the beginning

"It's not easy to find your feet in a new country with a different language and culture, especially at the beginning. When I came to Kaiserslautern, I first had to get used to how much quieter it is here compared to my home country. But now I love the small town and especially the proximity to nature. As I like being outdoors and doing sports, it's perfect here. All this makes my studies at RPTU a great experience, even though I miss family and friends. And what I still miss is my favorite food Egusi Soup. I've already cooked it, but it's just not as good as the one from home. I'll have to practise - or visit Nigeria again, the last time I was there was in 2022. 😊"

Conclusion after four semesters

"Despite homesickness and initial fears, after four semesters I can say: Come to RPTU! It's the right decision to study abroad. Everyone here is very helpful, whether it's the professors or other students. The course is practice-oriented, which is why I found an internship in industry very quickly - that definitely speaks for the university. Studying abroad has brought me a lot closer to my goal of a career in the automotive industry in Germany."