Hochschule Bremen (HSB) thrives on the people who study and work here, and who enrich the university as visitors. In our ‘Three questions for…’ series, we introduce some of them. Here is student Laura Cañón. The 20-year-old comes from the city of Barranquilla in Colombia. She came to Bremen just over two years ago to study Aviation Systems Engineering and Management at the HSB. Together with more than 50 fellow students from the HSB and the University of Bremen, the bachelor’s student is involved in the student project Bremergy. The team takes part in ‘Formula Student’ – the world’s largest engineering competition. To this end, the Bremen students build an electric racing car every year. They compete with this car at the international ‘Formula Student’ events, pitting themselves against teams from other universities worldwide in various disciplines. This year, they are taking part in events in Spain, Italy and Germany (Hockenheim).
Ms Cañón, why did you decide to study at HSB?
Because I really liked the focus of the course. I’ve always loved aviation. But I didn’t just want to learn about the technical side; I wanted to learn about the administrative side too. That’s why the course at HSB was perfect for me. It combines theory with practical experience – for example, through lots of exercises and projects. What I like best about it is the chance to learn from my lecturers’ experience: I’m lucky to have several lecturers who are very closely involved in aviation and have a wealth of experience. That has only strengthened my love for this career path.
What motivates you to get involved with Bremergy in your spare time, and what exactly do you do there?
At first, my motivation was my love of Formula 1. Now, however, it’s the people in the team and the events where we showcase our car. It’s particularly nice to take part in these events, as you get to meet lots of people from all over the world, work together as a team and have a lot of fun at the end of the day. The best thing about this project is working with other students. The atmosphere is very relaxed and everyone is always keen to learn and meet new people.
At Bremergy, I work in the Controlling department. I’m responsible for the team’s marketing and also help organise and run events. The Controlling department covers finance, marketing, human resources and IT. Together, we ensure that the administrative and organisational processes run smoothly, thereby providing the best possible support to the technical departments.
How do you benefit from the project?
I’m now in my fifth semester and joined the team back in my first semester. Since then, Bremergy has been a real asset to me. Firstly, I’ve met lots of great people. Secondly, as a foreigner, it’s a fantastic opportunity for me to practise speaking German. The project has also helped me step out of my comfort zone, work with new people and express my opinions.
Another major advantage is that Bremergy is organised like a company. This has taught me what it means to take on responsibility within a team, carry out tasks, hold weekly meetings and discuss updates and events. Overall, my experience at Bremergy is enriching my personal and professional development and preparing me for future career challenges.
Fancy getting involved?
Interested students from Hochschule Bremen and the University of Bremen are welcome at Bremergy. As the project has mechanical and electrical departments as well as a controlling department, students from all disciplines can contribute their expertise. How much time they wish to invest in the project is entirely up to them. There is almost always someone in the workshop. Those interested can apply via the Bremergy-Portal.