GEARE
Global Engineering Alliance for Research and Education
Under the project name GEARE, Purdue University’s School of Mechanical Engineering and the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at KIT originally developed and initiated a student exchange program. The goal was to internationalize traditional engineering degree programs and enhance competencies for global engineering practice. Today, the program also includes Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
As a participant, you will spend one semester at your chosen partner university. Additionally, the program includes a self-organized, three-month internship that gives you the chance to gain valuable work experience in the respective host country, making this an integral part of your international journey.
In addition to your own international stay, you will also have the opportunity to connect with incoming students from partner universities through organized events. These gatherings foster cultural exchange and help you build early connections within the global GEARE community.
Timeline
To give you a better idea of what to expect from GEARE, you’ll find a rough outline of the program below. Please note that the exact schedule may vary slightly. For more detailed information, visit IPEK.
\ November
Info event and application period. Time to complete and submit your application.
\ December
Individual Interviews & Acceptances.
\ January
Program kickoff! Get to know the other participants and receive your first tips and guidance from us and from IPEK.
\ February – March
Regular exam period at KIT. At the same time, you start searching for an internship position, apply for a passport, and obtain any required language certificates.
\ April
Arrival of guest students from the US and China at KIT. From this point on, several events will help you get to know each other and connect.
\ May
You’ll apply for your visa in your respective country.
\ June – August
Now it’s time for the final preparations. You’ll receive plenty of support and some last tips for your upcoming stay abroad.
\ September – December
Departure to your host country and start of the first international phase! In the U.S., you’ll begin your internship, while in China, your time at the university starts. As the holiday season approaches, you’ll also have the opportunity to travel and explore.
\ January – May
Start of the second international phase. In the U.S., you’ll now begin your studies at the university, while participants in China start their internships.
\ May – June
End of the second international phase. From this point on, it’s up to you – would you like to return to KIT right away or take some extra time to travel and explore the country?