From Rheinbach to Aberdeen: Bryan's path to a dual degree

My name is Bryan Frey, I am in my fifth semester of Applied Biology and am currently doing a year abroad at the University of Aberdeen with the aim of gaining a dual degree. I have decided to specialise in Genetics (Immunology). The change from HBRS to our partner university in Scotland is not causing me any problems, as the first four semesters at Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg have prepared me ideally for this, both in terms of subject matter and language skills.

I'm really looking forward to my practical phase here, in which I'll be able to research the dysfunction of RANK receptors on osteoclasts and their effect on the human skeleton. Thanks to the many internships and methods I was able to complete in the laboratory in Rheinbach, I feel very well prepared for the practical work.

Also outside of the courses, HBRS helped me to develop personally and to be an active part of university life through the many opportunities to participate in student bodies and committees.

In addition, I was able to support Professor Lehmann as a tutor in the Study Island programme to help students from the first two semesters. This was a really important experience for me, as I have the desire to teach one day.

I am still particularly impressed by the intercultural nature of the university - from the many students from all over the world to English-language degree programmes and international festivals. Among other things, I supported the Study Buddy Programme by helping a Colombian student to find his way around the German system, which is very different from South America. Having immigrated to Germany from Uruguay with my family myself, I know how helpful it is to have someone to talk to locally.

The idea of studying at the University of Aberdeen for a year and gaining a dual degree at the same time fascinated me from the very first moment. However, as studying in the UK is very expensive, I applied for a scholarship from the DAAD and the Evangelisches Studienwerk, both of which I received with the support of the university. I was encouraged and helped by the numerous discussions I had with Professor Reinscheid and Professor Lehmann. I am very grateful to HBRS for making it possible for me to study abroad for a year and gain many benefits in the process!

After completing my Bachelor's degree, I want to do a Master's degree and then go on to do a doctorate. Where my path will take me after Aberdeen is still uncertain. But I am open to many possibilities and, thanks to my studies at HBRS and my current training, I am very confident. Thank you for that, HBRS!

Bryan Frey