Aacheners are very open and willing to help

Interview with Chinese RWTH Aachen University student Qingke Xiang Aacheners are very open and willing to help

I’m really happy in Aachen. I´m originally from Wuhan in China and started off studying information technology at Shanghai Tongji University.

Qingke Xiang

born in Wuhan, China, pop. 4.2 million
IT student at RWTH Aachen University

While there, I took a one-year German course to familiarise myself with the German language, culture and mentality. I was immediately impressed by the “German virtues” of punctuality and planning capability. I resolved to continue my studies in Germany, get to know the country and, at the same time, improve my knowledge of the language and my career prospects.

I got my visa in 2005. It didn’t take long to decide on RWTH Aachen University – it’s very well-known in China, and the Chairman of the Chinese Academy did his PhD here. Once here, the university’s International Office supported me right from the word go. During Freshers’ Week I was given essential information on studying and living in Germany, and this is also where excursions are organised involving all the foreign students. And when it came to language issues and dealing with the authorities, the International Office was there to help every time.

I’m fascinated by the border location

In terms of the city, I was especially fascinated by its border location and historic old quarter. I wished I could show them to my family. Aacheners are very open and willing to help – indeed life here is a lot more laid-back than in the huge city of Wuhan.

My Aachen highlights:

Gently swimming lengths in the Westschwimmhalle
The students’ fitness centre
The old quarter with the cathedral and City Hall
The “Dreiländerpunkt” where Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands meet up
The town of Monschau in the Eifel Hills

In my students’ hall of residence I’m living with people from a whole variety of nations. Once a month we all cook together – that’s always a great time. Studying in Aachen is a lot more free than in Shanghai. There’s also much more emphasis on teamwork here.

Away from my studies, I liaise between Chinese companies and the local Chamber of Trade & Industry, I interpret and pass on information about Aachen. Whenever I have time, I love swimming in the Westschwimmhalle pool or working out at the university fitness centre.

My plan is to graduate in 2010. After that I’d like to continue my research in the US, but I’ll definitely not forget Aachen or RWTH Aachen University.