Marshall University student Gregory Hart, who is studying mechanical engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Sciences, was recently accepted into the master’s degree program in design and development for mechanical and automotive engineering (DDM) program at the Esslingen University of Applied Science in Esslingen, Germany. The DDM program is taught in English and focuses on the design and development of complex engineering systems. It encourages students to work in interdisciplinary and international teams.
“I’m really looking forward to getting a global engineering perspective through studying abroad and believe the DDM program will set me up well for getting work experience with a German automotive company,” Hart said. “Esslingen is very close to Stuttgart and has close ties with automotive companies headquartered there, such as Daimler and Porsche.”
He is also excited to get involved with the Institute of Sustainability Energy, Engineering and Mobility (INEM) at Esslingen. Hart has experience in fuel cell research and an interest in clean energy. He says he looks forward to getting involved with the INEM’s zero emission local public transport project and conducting research in the area of clean mobility, which is a possible theme for his master’s thesis.
Working with faculty in the College of Engineering and Computer Sciences gave him closer connections and also led to his acceptance into a clean fuel REU program at Old Dominion University, Hart said. Marshall faculty members’ efforts to help him succeed with his nanoparticle research helped the most, he said. The experience gave him a passion for clean energy and the desire to continue this work in graduate school.
Having family from Germany also inspired Hart’s goal of doing a master’s program there. He was not accepted into another program for which he underwent a very difficult application process.
However, “Through my professors, mentors and peers, the Marshall family helped me get the courage to continue walking when I felt worthless, and now I have the chance to attend a program better than the one I was rejected from,” Hart said. His advice for fellow students is, “I would say that no matter what your goals are, there will always be people to help you along the way, especially here at the College of Engineering and Computer Sciences. Even when you are convinced you won’t make it, send that application, because if you put in the effort, even when it seems pointless, you will find opportunities that are fulfilling for you.”
Hart is off to a great start toward a successful career in engineering, said Dr. Tony Szwilski, interim chair of the Weisberg Department of Mechanical Engineering. “Germany has a fine tradition in engineering. The DDM program will also provide him a unique international experience,” Szwilski said.
Hart “was able to demonstrate an appreciated willingness to learn the most sophisticated subjects and latest technologies in several areas within the mechanical engineering discipline,” said Dr. Wael Zatar, dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Sciences. “He is a fine man who has received the utmost respect from all his peers and professors. I have great confidence he will benefit from this very unique opportunity to join the DDM program at the Esslingen University of Applied Science.”
“His persistence to join one of the best universities in the field and the world’s most advanced automotive manufacturing areas perfectly matches with his goal of uniquely advancing the areas of fuel cells, clean energy and mobility,” Zatar continued. “On behalf of the College of Engineering and Computer Sciences, we all wish him the very best in his endeavors. I look forward to hearing lots of positive updates from Gregory and want him to always remember Marshall University.”
For more information about Marshall’s College of Engineering and Computer Sciences, visit www.marshall.edu/cecs.