When I first received the news that I had been awarded the Marie Curie Doctoral Fellowship, I was filled with excitement, and nervousness. Having never stepped out of China, the idea of living and working in a foreign country, on a continent away in Europe, felt both thrilling and daunting. Little did I know, this experience would profoundly shape not only my academic career but also my personal growth.

Embracing the start at KU Leuven

My journey began at KU Leuven in Belgium, a university renowned for its cutting-edge research and vibrant academic community.

Workwise, my experience at KU Leuven was transformative. The research focus here was different from what I was accustomed to—more application-focused and hands-on. The university’s facilities allowed me to engage in practical experiments and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. This approach not only deepened my understanding of my research field but also gave me a new perspective on how academic research can directly be used in Industry.

Figure 1: Experiment Day by the Vaart Leuven-Mechelen

Life-wise, KU Leuven offered more than just academic enrichment. I found myself surrounded by beautiful nature, historical cityscapes, and excellent sports facilities. One of the unexpected highlights of my time at KU Leuven was joining the university’s aero club, where I had the incredible opportunity to learn how to fly a plane. This experience added an exciting dimension to my life abroad, giving me a new skill and a sense of freedom.

Figure 2: Me as the Pilot in Command

Mobility Opportunities Through Secondments

One of the unique aspects of the Marie Curie fellowship is the opportunity to undertake secondments—short-term research placements at other institutions or companies.

My first secondment began at to TU Delft in the Netherlands, where I joined the Maritime and Transport Technology department. The department had a strong sense of community, and I was quickly welcomed into various departmental events, seminars, and workshops. This experience allowed me to expand my network and gain valuable insights into different research methodologies and approaches.

Figure 3: Night View of the 3mE Building at TU Delft

My second secondment was with RH Marine, a company specializing in advanced maritime technologies. This placement offered me a firsthand look at life as an engineer, working to bring products from the development stage to the customer. It gave me a new appreciation for the practical applications of my research and a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by engineers in the industry.

Figure 4: with my Colleagues at RH Marine

The Value of Project Meetings

Another enriching aspect of my Marie Curie journey was the opportunity to attend project meetings hosted by different universities across Europe. Each visit offered a taste of different academic cultures and environments. These meetings were also a great opportunity to network with fellow researchers and exchange ideas, further broadening my academic horizons.

Challenges and Growth: Coping with Culture Shock and Loneliness

Despite all the incredible opportunities, my international journey came with its challenges. Moving to a new country where I knew no one was overwhelming at times. I faced culture shock as I adapted to new social norms, languages, and ways of life. While the initial excitement was high, loneliness became more pronounced as the novelty wore off and the reality of living abroad set in.

However, these challenges also spurred personal growth. To manage loneliness, I began regular exercise, which not only kept me fit but also provided a mental boost and a sense of accomplishment. Gradually, I built a new life in Belgium, made new friends, and found joy in exploring the local culture.

Conclusion

Reflecting on my time as a Marie Curie Doctoral Fellow, I can say it has been life-changing. Living and working at KU Leuven, alongside secondments at TU Delft and RH Marine, has shaped me both professionally and personally. The challenges of culture shock and loneliness taught me resilience and adaptability.

For those considering the Marie Curie fellowship, I encourage you to embrace the experience with an open mind and willingness to step out of your comfort zone. The growth and connections you’ll gain are invaluable and will enrich your life in unexpected ways.

An article by Yan-Yun Zhang.