Abstract:

Study abroad programs are a popular option for college students to enrich their study experience and expand their horizons. Among the many benefits, such as introducing students to different cultures, languages, and environments, it also benefits students by providing them with a unique educational and learning opportunity. Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), in the United States of America, offers an exchange program for students to study at Lübeck University of Applied Sciences (THL), in Germany during their third academic year. Students who participate in the program complete a Bachelor thesis to meet the requirements and earn both the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) degree from MSOE and the Diplom-Ingenieur from THL. This paper presents the program process and case studies of the impact of the study abroad program experience on students who participated in the program. The main focus is on the dual faculty advising and improvements in individual’s research ability that students gain from the program. Under faculty guidance and mentorship, students were able to successfully complete their diploma theses. An example of design, analysis, and results of an independent research project will be presented to indicate some lessons learned along the way, as well as the challenges encountered.

Keywords:

Dual degree, Mentorship, International collaboration.