UTC students experienced a different culture while abroad and expanded both their personal and professional horizons.
Over spring break, 14 students from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s College of Engineering and Computer Science traveled to the Netherlands for a nine-day study abroad program that combined classroom learning with cultural experiences and international innovation.
Built around UTC’s MLNG 2000: Encountering Global Cultures course, the trip gave students the opportunity to explore engineering and computer science while experiencing a new country.
According to CECS Director for Student Success Irene Hillman, the goal was to create an experience that would not delay graduation while still giving the students a chance to do something unique.
“This course became a way to combine general education with global engineering exposure,” Hillman said.
Students from multiple majors participated, though most were engineering or computer science majors since the course focused heavily on the topics. Hillman explained that each student visited sites and had discussions relevant to their field.
“Civil engineers were able to focus on water management and infrastructure because that is such a defining feature of the Netherlands,” she said. “Computer science students saw how digital systems support infrastructure and cybersecurity. Mechanical engineering students explored automotive and innovation spaces.”
Before they left for the Netherlands, the students completed preparatory coursework that included learning about the country’s history and culture.
“We did a lot of research presentations on the Netherlands before we left,” said mechanical engineering student Ava Johnson, a junior from Huntsville, Alabama. “It helped us understand what we were walking into.”
Students experienced new cuisines, languages and experiences while in the Netherlands.
Johnson said this trip was her first study abroad experience and that she valued the visits with professionals.
“I actually really enjoyed talking to professionals,” she said. “I thought I would mostly explore outside the meetings, but the meetings were very interesting.”
She highlighted visiting the Van Gogh Museum, the M.C. Escher in the Palace Museum, and a pancake farm where ingredients were produced on-site.
“We went to so many museums and interesting sites,” Johnson said. “It was really memorable.”
Johnson also emphasized the differences in daily life between the United States and the Netherlands.
“The bike culture is on another level,” she said, adding that she became more confident navigating unfamiliar systems. “I can definitely navigate public transportation now.”
Mechanical engineering student Camryn Ryder, a senior from Kingsport, Tennessee, said she decided to join the course because of a learning requirement but found it to be very valuable.
“We went to multiple companies and professionals in different fields,” Ryder said. “It was really interesting seeing how they approach innovation differently.”
Ryder said the communication style she observed was different from what she was used to, noting that people were “a lot more blunt, but in a respectful way.” She added, “You can tell they value quality of life.”
Ryder emphasized the importance of taking chances like study abroad opportunities.
“Step outside your comfort zone,” she said. “It opens your eyes. If you only stay in one place, your perspective is really limited.”
Computer science student Ryan Cavitt, a senior from Cleveland, Tennessee, also found strong academic connections during the trip, even though he was unsure what to expect going into it.
“To be honest, I just wanted to have something to do during spring break,” he said. “But we saw a lot and it was well worth it.”
Cavitt also echoed a common theme noticed by students:
“The bike culture cannot be understated,” he said. “You can hear about it, but you can’t really prepare for it. It’s everywhere.”
Hillman mentioned that the program will continue annually at UTC, with future trips in different countries while maintaining a focus on engineering and computer science.
“We want to keep exploring different locations and give students different types of experiences,” she said. “Engineering will always be the focus, but the setting will change.”
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