Michael Testimonial

Michael Christian Suhendra
Computer Engineering 2016

I was first enticed by the Fast-Track Programme due to three things:

One, my desire to study in a field concerning both engineering and informatics; two, being able to study in Germany and obtain a highly-regarded German engineering degree; and three, to do so without having to endure a year-long preparatory course (Studienkolleg). 

I then enrolled into this one-of-a-kind offer, taking the course Computer Engineering. During this process the Mercator Office, the ‘bridge’ between the University of Indonesia and Universität Duisburg-Essen, were kindly accommodating and especially helpful, as I took both the National Exam and the Cambridge A-Levels (which clashed with Mercator’s one-month MINT preparation), but thankfully everything went smoothly. Although being a last-minute choice, the University has so far reached my expectations.

To begin with, the University has an international outlook, also evidenced by this programme, with the variety of students from all over the world taking part. Starting from the professors, the tutors, up to the International Office, all are supportive and welcoming, as well as the cities of Duisburg and Essen – conveniently located in the heart of the Rhein-Ruhr area, meaning traveling to Belgium, the Netherlands, and within Germany itself is made more efficient. And for the cities Duisburg and Essen themselves, they offer a range of sceneries and activities for a respite from the usually hectic study periods.

Moreover, the courses in the University are organized, such that English-taught subjects are taught at the first year, easing a transition to the mostly German-taught subjects on the following years. I can tell you that this University presents a totally different learning experience, compared to high school.

 I am still on my freshman year at Uni DuE – hence I can’t explain a lot about the University or draw a conclusion just yet – but the early signs are promising, of what would be three (very possibly more, according to seniors) highly enthralling and worthwhile years of university life.