What do you enjoy most about advising in the MSE?
«To give advice and support to young people, who are on a steep learning curve, is very rewarding. Our students belong to the next generation of engineers and will contribute to future technologies. There are so many fields in which we need better technologies – better for humans and for nature. Climate change and achieving net-zero carbon dioxide emissions represent huge challenges for humankind. Our students will contribute to achieve this goal in the field of building technologies.
Discussions with students sometimes provide new insights even for the advisor! It is also impressive to see the progress students make during their master studies. They reach – after their bachelor’s degree – a new level of proficiency in their professional discipline.»
Which Master thesis do you remember most and why?
«There is not one particular but several theses, which I remember very well. This is mainly because I was impressed by the achievements of these students.»
What advice do you have for new MSE students?
«Be curious! Don’t be shy and ask questions! Choose your subjects according to your interests. Don’t be afraid of failing. Get back on your feet after a failure. Don’t be afraid of uncharted territory!»
What are some lessons you've learned as an MSE advisor?
«You need patience and generosity as an advisor. Each student is different and has his/her own interests, approach, speed etc.»
How do you keep your students motivated?
«Most students are intrinsically motivated. They are interested in what they are doing and enjoy it. Using external pressure is a bad recipe. Positive comments and active support help to keep them going. And sometimes laughing together about a good joke helps as well!»
Prof. Dr. Heinrich Manz, MSE Advisor