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A spring to remember: Mini-Mester with South East University
This spring of 2025 marks a long-awaited revival: after a break since 2019, the Mini-Mester program is back in full swing at RWTH Aachen University – welcoming 28 enthusiastic engineering students from South East University of China for a unique academic and cultural experience in Germany.
A three-month dive into academic life in Germany
The Mini-Mester, short for "miniature semester," offers international students an exciting opportunity to live and study in Germany for three months. At RWTH Aachen University, students not only explore the fundamentals of engineering, but also immerse themselves in project work and scientific methodology. The program emphasizes a strong connection with lecturers and tutors, providing an authentic insight into the German teaching style.
Students also benefit from direct contact with leading research institutes such as the Institute of General Mechanics (IAM) and the Institute of Mechanism Theory, Machine Dynamics and Robotics (IGMR) – both part of RWTH – and gain insights that open up new academic and career horizons.
Learning, Exploring & Networking
Students have successfully completed modules such as
- Principles of Automatic Control
- Numerical Methods with Artificial Intelligence Applications
- Basics of Mechanics and Mechanism
- Robots for Future Industrial Application
- Introduction of Information & Communication Networks
These courses combine theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring that participants build a solid foundation for future innovation.
Outside the classroom: Industry insights and cultural adventures
A major highlight of the Mini-Mester is its strong focus on real-world experiences. Students have already embarked on fascinating company visits, including:
- RWE Garzweiler Open Cast Mine – a deep dive into energy production and land recultivation.
- Thyssenkrupp Steel Factory in Duisburg – an eye-opening tour through one of Germany’s industrial giants.
- Mitsubishi Electric – cutting-edge technology and international networking.
City trips across Germany and beyond
To complement their academic pursuits, students enjoyed several memorable excursions:
- Cologne: A sweet visit to the Lindt & Sprüngli Chocolate Museum followed by free time to explore.
- Maastricht: A guided tour and a taste of typical Dutch fries.
- Liège: A journey through the historic streets of Belgium's vibrant city.
During their exploration week, students visited major German cities such as Hanover, Wolfsburg (including a guided tour and factory tour at Volkswagen), Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg (including a city and harbor tour and a visit to the Airbus factory), and Bremen.
After three months of learning, exploring, and making new connections, the Mini-Mester has come to an end. From exciting lectures at RWTH Aachen University, to hands-on projects and company visits, to unforgettable trips across Germany and beyond, it has been a filled and inspiring experience.
Many thanks to all participating companies and institutes for supporting us and for creating such an exciting and enriching program.
We wish all 28 students from South East University all the best for their future studies and careers. It was a pleasure to have you here in Aachen – and we hope to see you again soon!