"Ensuring talent isn't overlooked": How studying abroad through TUMexchange can shape the future

An exchange semester opens up new perspectives, international experiences, and often opportunities that extend far beyond academic study. It prepares students to navigate an increasingly interconnected world of research and work. For Nick, a student at the TUM School of Life Sciences, his stay at the National University of Singapore (NUS) could even be life-changing. He wants to lay the groundwork for research into treatment options for his own medical condition. Starting October 20, TUM students can once again apply for a study abroad experience through TUMexchange.

A person using a power wheelchair in the lobby of a university building. A staircase and a lion sculpture can be seen in the background. — Nick deliberately chose NUS for his exchange semester. The university's research strengths align perfectly with both his academic interests and his personal goals. Image: Amanda Gesang / TUM

Nick is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Molecular Biotechnology. He has spinal muscular atrophy and will spend the Winter Semester 2026/27 studying in Singapore through TUMexchange. In this interview, he talks about what motivated him to take this step despite the challenges associated with his disability, the support he has received, and why NUS became his first choice.

Nick, congratulations on your exchange semester in Singapore. What made studying abroad so important to you?

Like most students, I definitely want to improve my English. If you want to work in research later on, English is the foundation of international scientific exchange.

I also hope to build an international network during my time abroad. The contacts I make could be valuable for my future scientific career.

Beyond that, I'm looking forward to becoming more independent. Living away from my parents for an extended period for the first time is a major step for me. I'm excited about the experience and curious to see how it will help me grow as a person.

But the scientific aspect is especially important to me. For a long time, I've been asking myself how my condition could be treated more effectively or perhaps one day even cured. That's one of the reasons I chose Molecular Biotechnology as my field of study. My dream is to one day help advance research into new treatments myself. The experiences I gain in Singapore will hopefully provide the foundation for that goal.

That’s certainly a powerful motivation. Even so, taking such a big step often comes with doubts. Were there moments when you weren't sure whether you wanted to go through with the exchange semester?

Yes, I definitely had doubts at times. But my mother believed in this plan from the very beginning and supported me unconditionally. That gave me a great deal of confidence.

Some uncertainties remain. In particular, the personal assistance arrangements on site will only become clear once I'm actually in Singapore and everything has settled into place. I'm also a little nervous about the language. But ultimately, I'm convinced that these challenges can be overcome.

Studying abroad is usually a significant financial commitment, and your situation involves additional costs. How are you financing your stay in Singapore?

First of all, I saved money myself because I knew early on that I wanted to study in Singapore and that it isn't an inexpensive destination.

My parents are also supporting me financially. In addition, I was fortunate to be selected for an Erasmus+ scholarship that supports stays at certain partner institutions. The fact that NUS is one of the eligible partner universities has been a tremendous help.

With the support of Ms. Gesang from the TUM Global & Alumni Office, I was also able to apply for additional funding through the German National Agency DAAD to cover actual disability-related expenses. The application has already been approved, and I am very grateful for that support.

This funding helps cover the additional costs associated with my disability and makes my exchange semester in this form possible.

Preparing for an exchange semester involves a lot of planning. Which aspects required the most attention?

Large waterfall in a tropical garden setting beneath a glass roof structure. — The combination of futuristic architecture and abundant green spaces impressed Nick during a preparatory visit to Singapore in March. Image: Nick G. / TUM

The topics that occupied me most were healthcare, housing, and mobility. I wanted to resolve as many questions as possible before leaving so that I could focus entirely on my studies once I arrived in Singapore.

To address organizational matters, I traveled to Singapore with my parents in March for a preparatory visit. We met with the responsible contacts at NUS, toured the residence hall where I will be living, tested public transportation, and discussed numerous practical details.

Another important aspect of my preparations was ensuring access to medical care in Singapore. It was important for me to know that I would be well supported medically during my stay. In that context, I met a professor at NUS University Hospital who will serve as a point of contact in case of an emergency. Knowing that the hospital is located directly on campus gives me additional peace of mind.

We also looked into which assistive equipment I would need during my stay. For example, a medical bed has been provided for my room. In addition, we assembled a set of essential spare parts for my wheelchair so that I would be well prepared in the event that repairs are needed.

Why Singapore?

I saw the challenge of this destination as an opportunity. Singapore is far from home, and studying abroad there naturally requires a considerable amount of planning and organization. At the same time, I believe that my time here will help me become more independent and encourage me to step outside my comfort zone.

My decision was also influenced by the city itself. I had visited Singapore once before with my family after my brother graduated from high school, and I was immediately fascinated by it. What captivates me most is the combination of futuristic architecture and lush green spaces.

I also have the impression that people here are very driven and efficient. They pursue their goals with confidence and determination. That's something I hope to learn from and apply to my own path.

Why was NUS your first choice?

NUS was my first choice for several reasons. First and foremost, the university is home to outstanding research in the biosciences. In the long term, I could very well imagine returning to NUS after completing my degree to conduct research into treatment options for my own condition.

In addition, both the university and Singapore as a whole offer excellent conditions for wheelchair users. The campus is well connected to public transportation, many areas are accessible, and I feel that I can maintain a highly independent daily routine here.

Three people on the campus of the National University of Singapore (NUS). One person is seated in a powered wheelchair, while two others stand beside them. UTown Green, modern university buildings, and the NUS sign can be seen in the background. — Nick with Teo Zhi Xiong and Kew Jun Wei on the NUS campus. UTown Green, the centerpiece of the University Town residential community, can be seen behind them. Image: Nick G. / TUM

I was also deeply impressed by the openness of NUS. From the very beginning, my inquiry was met with a positive response, and I immediately felt supported.

For laboratory work, NUS even offered to assign someone to work alongside me. I would have been able to direct and instruct that person myself, which I found to be an extraordinary opportunity and something I greatly appreciated.

You've mentioned the support provided by TUM and NUS several times. What impressed you most about that support?

The support was incredibly important to me. Both the TUM Global & Alumni Office and the colleagues at NUS showed tremendous commitment from the very beginning.

What impressed me most was the openness and solution-oriented mindset of everyone involved. Together, they looked at what conditions needed to be in place to make my stay successful. People on both sides invested a great deal of time and worked hard to find solutions to a wide range of challenges.

Because there often were no standard solutions for the questions that arose, this support was especially valuable to me.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to Ms. Pascale and Ms. Gesang from the TUM Global & Alumni Office, Kew Jun Wei from the NUS Global Relations Office, Teo Zhi Xiong, and the entire team of the NUS Student Accessibility Unit. Their commitment has shown that international mobility and inclusion can go hand in hand.

The support provided by TUM and NUS shows what is possible when universities and their staff work together with openness, commitment, and a willingness to find individual solutions. Why is inclusion important in international exchange programs?

It's about ensuring that talent doesn't go unnoticed. An exchange semester creates opportunities in many ways, whether for personal growth, an academic career, or future professional opportunities. These opportunities should be available to all students, regardless of whether they have a physical disability or not.

Thank you for speaking with us, Nick. We wish you an exciting and successful time in Singapore!
To be continued: After returning from Singapore, Nick will share his experiences of daily life and studying at NUS with us.

Studying abroad: More than just a change of location

Nick's story shows that an exchange semester is about far more than studying at a different university. International experiences foster independence, intercultural competence, and the ability to work in global teams. They broaden horizons, create international networks, and open doors to both personal and academic growth.

To ensure that these opportunities are not determined by individual circumstances, TUM works together with its partner universities to promote equity and reduce barriers in international mobility programs.

Ready for your own TUMexchange experience?

Apply now for exchange opportunities in Winter Semester 2027/28 and Summer Semester 2028

Starting October 20, 2026, applications for study-abroad opportunities through TUMexchange will open again.

The program offers one- or two-semester study experiences at renowned partner universities around the world. At most TUMexchange partner institutions, students do not pay additional tuition fees.

Find information on partner countries, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines:
TUMexchange