You may not expect it, but among the rocky hills and cerulean beaches of Southern Spain lies some of the best solar technology in the world. Thanks to Jonathan Scheffe, Ph.D., a Mechanical Engineering Professor at the University of Florida, students have the opportunity to experience the beauty of Southern Spain, as well as its advanced solar power facilities, by participating in the study abroad program UF in Spain: Understanding Next-Generation Energy Technologies.
Students with busy schedules needn’t worry – this opportunity is offered alongside the core course Thermodynamics (EML3100) and the technical elective Applications of Thermodynamics to Solar Power Generation and Industrial Decarbonization (EML4930), so they will remain on track with critical requirements. Studying abroad is a great way for students to gain new perspectives, as their education will extend beyond what is taught in the United States. While theoretical engineering concepts are consistent in textbooks worldwide, the methods of teaching necessarily differ; exposure to these differences encourages students to think in unique ways. Additionally, students will gain language and cultural knowledge by sightseeing in Southern Spain, meeting new people, and practicing their Spanish.
Dr. Scheffe explains that this program is designed to combine core engineering theory with its applications to industrial decarbonization and next-generation energy technology by weaving industry tours and guest lectures together with cultural immersion in Southern Spain to craft a “truly unique educational experience.”
While in Spain, students will attend daily lectures for each course, immersing themselves in the material. They will be supported by Dr. Scheffe, a full-time teaching assistant, and guest lecturer Aldo Steinfeld, Ph.D., a Professor from the Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich, Switzerland. Students will also tour various solar power plants, solar research facilities, and business centers, as well as prominent cultural landmarks and scenic natural sites.
Rebecca Vosilla participated in the program this past summer. She felt that it was a “particularly special experience,” as it allowed her to get real-world practice in engineering while engaging with the Spanish language and culture, both of which are her academic passions. Another participant, Laura Garzon, added that the exchange gave her a “deep appreciation of the richness of both Southern Spanish culture and its technological innovations.”
This program is primarily targeted toward engineering students who are particularly interested in industrial decarbonization and solar technologies and are on schedule to take thermodynamics in the fall or spring semesters. This includes second-year students as well as late-term first-year and early-term third-year students who can organize their schedules to accommodate it. The program is offered exclusively in Summer A. The cost is inclusive, and since the program is offered through the International Center, students can apply for scholarships to help cover the fees.
For more information on the program, please visit the following links:
There are many study abroad opportunities available for engineering students. If you are interested in other specializations within engineering, visit the International Center’s website for more information:
Story & Editing by: Katherine Canev
Marketing & Communications Student Assistant
Design & Editing by: Christi Swiers
Marketing & Communications Specialist
UF Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
December 6, 2024