From Munich to Brno by bike: Interview with double degree student Jana
From Munich to Brno on a bike, from Germany to the Czech Republic in pursuit of two diplomas – meet Jana Meyer zu Hörste, an enthusiastic environmental science student who inspires not only with her unconventional journey, but also with her deep commitment to sustainability. In this interview, she shares her impressions of studying at the Faculty of Chemistry BUT, recounts her adventurous cycling trip, and reveals what she’ll miss most about Brno.
Sustainability as a lifelong mission
Jana, could you briefly introduce yourself? Where are you from, what do you study, and what brought you here?
I’m 24 years old and come from Germany. I study a joint master’s programme – Environmental Sciences at RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau and Environmental Engineering here at BUT in Brno. It’s a so-called double degree programme, which means I’ll receive two diplomas – a Master’s degree from Germany and an Engineer’s degree from the Czech Republic.
Are you part of any specific research group at the faculty?
Not exactly. I attend various courses taught by different professors at FCH, so I’m not part of one particular research group. When I write my thesis, I’ll have one supervisor from each country – one from Germany and one from the Czech Republic.
What inspired you to study environmental sciences?
I enjoyed biology, math, and experiments already in elementary school. But it was the desire to do something meaningful for the planet that led me to environmental sciences. I remember that in the fourth grade, we had to give our first presentations, and I chose environmental protection. It’s always been very close to my heart.
How did you find out about the opportunity to earn two diplomas?
Our university coordinator in Landau introduced the programme during an information session, which was also joined by the former Czech coordinator to explain the Brno perspective. I also met Czech students who had completed the same exchange in Germany and shared their experiences. That encouraged me to apply for the programme.
By bike to Brno: A journey for the planet
Yes! It took me 15 days and I cycled about 700 kilometers. I started from Munich and followed the Danube to Vienna, then continued to Brno. I wanted my journey to be eco-friendly, but also a bit adventurous. During my previous Erasmus in Spain, I met a student who had biked there from Germany – that inspired the idea.
Was the journey difficult?
Some days were tough – especially on my knees – but overall it was amazing. It hardly rained, and instead of camping, I stayed in regular homes. Along the way, I met many kind people – one even offered me a contact at an Austrian environmental agency. I made some valuable connections.
Life in Brno: A welcoming environment and new experiences
Is this your first time in the Czech Republic?
Yes, and I really like it here. Brno is quite similar to Germany – just without the sea.
What are you currently learning here?
My studies in Brno focus on technologies addressing environmental issues – like waste management, water treatment, or radioecology. I find nuclear chemistry especially fascinating. It’s all new to me, and I’ve learned a lot in a short time.
Have you worked with any new equipment or visited local facilities?
Yes, we had excursions to a waste incineration plant (SAKO) and a water treatment facility. I didn’t operate the equipment myself, but it was exciting to see. In Germany, environmental sciences don’t focus as much on the technical side, so it was something new.
How do you find the labs and teaching style compared to Germany?
We don’t have lab sessions in the programme, but I visited the labs during the excursions. They seemed quite similar – even the equipment brands were the same! The teaching style also feels very familiar.
What do you enjoy in your free time?
Hiking, dancing, social events, exploring Brno... Brno is larger than my hometown, so there’s always something going on – festivals, exhibitions, dance classes. A few of us joined a bachata class, which quickly became the highlight of my week.
Do you have any favorite spots in Brno?
I really like the lookout tower in the Holedná game reserve – it’s peaceful, full of greenery and beautiful nature. So far, it’s been my favorite trip.
Have you noticed any cultural differences?
Honestly, Czech and German cultures are very similar. I was surprised by how many habits we share – hiking, beer drinking, even wearing socks with sandals! (laughs) The only big difference is the currency. I still convert everything to euros. 
Living abroad changes you more than you think
Has living abroad changed your perspective on the world?
Absolutely. I’ve lived in France, Canada, and Spain before, and those experiences prepared me well. I even printed photos of friends and family to bring with me – in case I felt homesick at first. But it wasn’t necessary – my stay here has been very pleasant from the start.
How does the Czech Republic compare to the other countries you’ve lived in?
The Czech Republic is the first country where I don’t speak the local language well. That makes it more challenging, but also more enriching. The nature here is very green, similar to Germany. Spain felt drier and more Mediterranean, and Canada? It has the most beautiful nature I’ve ever seen.
How will this programme influence your future career?
Technical knowledge and an additional degree are definitely a bonus. I’m not sure if I’ll work in industry or focus more on education and public outreach, but I want to make a difference. Understanding environmental technologies helps me explain why they matter – and that’s key if I want to inspire others to protect the planet.
What would you say to students considering studying abroad?
Do it! Living abroad can change your personality – according to a psychology podcast my mom listens to, even more than having a child! You become braver, more confident, and gain a global perspective. It’s a chance to grow, meet amazing people, and learn not just in class, but in life.
Any final tips for international students?
Bring your favorite snacks from home – especially chocolate! And say yes to as many new experiences as you can. Use networks like ESN, join international events, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’ll be surprised how many great things come your way if you’re open to them.
What will you miss most about Brno?
Definitely the dance classes and the amazing group of friends I’ve found here. There are ten of us from the same programme, we all live close to each other, so it’s easy to do things together. That close-knit community is really special – and I’ll miss it a lot.
Thank you for sharing your insights, and we wish you the best of luck in the future!
-jo-
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| Link | https://www.fch.vut.cz/en//f96620/d292122 |