Incoming: Alina Schönberg from Mittweida, Germany

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From Mittweida, Germany, to Bordeaux, Alina Schönberg’s Erasmus experience combined academic discovery, practical learning and international exchange. A Bachelor student in electrical engineering at the Mittweida University of Applied Sciences in Germany, she spent one semester at the University of Bordeaux, where she explored a new approach to her field of study.

Photo : Hochschule Mittweida (Mittweida University of Applied Sciences), founded in 1867, is a public university in Saxony, Germany, hosting about 7,000 students. Known for its strong practical focus, it offers over 50 Bachelor and Master degree programs, including select courses and full degrees taught entirely in English. © Hochschule Mittweida
Hochschule Mittweida (Mittweida University of Applied Sciences), founded in 1867, is a public university in Saxony, Germany, hosting about 7,000 students. Known for its strong practical focus, it offers over 50 Bachelor and Master degree programs, including select courses and full degrees taught entirely in English. © Hochschule Mittweida

From January to June 2026, Alina spent a semester at the University of Bordeaux’s Institute of Technology, joining the BUT GEII programme (Electrical Engineering and Industrial Computer Science) and specialising in Electricity and Energy Management (EME).

Her main motivation for studying abroad was to improve her French while continuing her studies in electrical engineering in an international environment. “I wanted to study my field while being immersed in a foreign culture,” she explains.

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Learning electrical engineering through hands-on practice ©AS
Learning electrical engineering through hands-on practice ©AS

One of the aspects she appreciated most during her semester was the practical nature of the courses and the autonomy given to students. Throughout the programme, she worked on real-world projects for clients, applying her knowledge to concrete challenges. These projects included designing a Li-ion charger and an inverter, creating printed circuit boards, and even building a submarine.

“These projects were particularly enjoyable and rewarding because we were able to put our skills into practice,” she says.

Beyond the classroom, Alina also valued the opportunities to connect with the wider university community. After the exam period, she was invited to a graduation ceremony celebrating students who had completed their degrees. During the final months of her stay, she also completed an internship, providing her with valuable experience in an international and scientific working environment.

Having completed her Erasmus semester in Bordeaux, Alina is now returning to Germany to finish her Bachelor degree. Looking ahead, she is considering pursuing a Master degree in renewable energies, continuing to build on the knowledge and experience gained during her time abroad.