26.02.2010
"The programme in Tübingen combines all I wanted"

Jung-Chih Chang´s favorite spot is the Neckar Brücke near the famous Hölderlin Turm in Tübingen (© Baden-Württemberg International)

Right after high school she knew that she was interested in how the economy works. With her background in finance gained at National Taiwan University, Jung-Chih Chang came to Europe in 2004 as an exchange student at the Institute of Economics at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark. It was there that she met young Germans who recommended Tübingen in Baden-Württemberg as a good place to do her Master´s. “I was one of the first students in the brand new Master´s programme “International Economics and Finance” and I am very happy with the programme in Tübingen. It combines all I wanted thanks to its focus on financial markets using quantitative analysis,” the 25-year old Taiwanese says.

In addition to the flexible structure with three majors and numerous courses to choose, the special focus lies on international economics and finance. The lectures are well-combined with practical courses. “For example, we learn how to use statistical or mathematical software to conduct quantitative analysis in PC-lab courses. In a colloquium or a seminar, we are required to do presentations and discussions about the relevant economic issues.” Jung-Chih finds these soft skills extremely important. She has two years of working experience and knows what is essential for a job in the financial industry. Also the academic empirical research is attractive for Jung-Chih: In the US, where many Taiwanese students study, business schools are very practically oriented. I am glad that the University of Tübingen also provides me with the theoretical background I would need for a PhD.

Changing the perspective from academics to the location: “Compared to the very busy city of Taipei where I studied and worked for 5 years, Tübingen is a relaxing town and not very stressful. In Taiwan I often had to work 12 hours a day! In Baden-Württemberg there is more room for life after work. Nature is easily accessible and there are so many interesting cultural events,” the Master´s student dotes. Her favorite spot is the Neckar Brücke (picture) near the famous Hölderlin Turm. Tübingen has everything a city needs and is extremely cozy. A perfect place to study hard and to live well.