Dr Jürgen Spieß

What‘s your nicest memory of Braunschweig and do you have a favorite place?

I used to live right next to the botanical gardens. I went there often and have very fond memories of it.

Reasons why the TU Braunschweig is a great place to study:

I enjoyed the fact that the TU Braunschweig has a center around which most of its facilities are concentrated. The distances are therefore short - especially compared to the universities in Hamburg and Göttingen, where I studied. I also found the academic environment at TU Braunschweig with its spin-offs and integration into the Braunschweig research landscape very favorable

Which contents of your studies can you still use in your career today?

I was originally a Mathematician and switched to the then new field of Computer Science. Hence, I had to teach myself many things and came to realize that you can learn a lot on your own - during your studies and even later in your career.

Are you still in touch with former fellow students? Do you see each other and if so, how often?

Yes, my former colleagues and I still meet up regularly, e.g. for Christmas tea. Most of them stayed in Braunschweig and the surrounding area. But I still have contact with former colleagues who live further away, too.

What advice would you give current students for their personal career planning?

1. Don't look for a permanent job right away, but first move around the world and take advantage of the opportunities that come your way. This can be a great enrichment for your life. The Erasmus program and other exchange programs offer good opportunities for this. Gaining an in-depth knowledge of another country and its language can serve as a qualification.
2.  In my experience, it is worthwhile to immerse yourself in the subject matter during your studies with diligence, intensive work and the pleasure of success: This creates a process that changes the mind and enables a deeper understanding of the subject matter. No pain, no gain!
3. During your studies, you can learn to clearly distinguish between scientific facts and what is little more than assumptions. Especially in today's world, where assumptions are often sold as knowledge, such an ability is valuable - both at work and in life.