Aryan Dhas is a bachelor’s student at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IITR) and is currently spending a semester at the TUM School of Computation, Information and Technology through the TUMexchange program. A few years ago, he lost his eyesight. He sees his time at TUM as an opportunity to gain new perspectives, meet people from around the world, and gain experiences that go beyond the classroom. With the encouragement of his family and a grant for disadvantaged students, Aryan embraced the adventure – and before long, he was cooking with friends in a dorm in Garching, hiking in the Alps, and even skydiving over Bavaria. In this interview, he shares why he chose Munich, the challenges he faces in everyday life, and how his stay at TUM has given him confidence and shaped his vision for the future.
Aryan, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. You’re an exchange student from IITR in India. In 2020, you lost your eyesight following surgery. What motivated you to spend a semester abroad despite your blindness?
My goal was to learn as much as possible and make the best use of the academic opportunities available. I wanted to strengthen my scientific skills, stay up to date with current developments, and contribute my own perspective. I'm driven by the desire to improve things – especially when it comes to accessibility and the real needs of people.
I see my bachelor’s studies as a chance to try new things and gather different experiences—and that includes a semester abroad. Studying at TUM gave me access to many exciting courses, insights into a new country and culture, and the chance to meet people from all over the world and learn about their ways of thinking. These experiences have been crucial for my personal growth.
How did you make the decision to go abroad?
I applied deliberately, even though I was aware of certain personal limitations. My exchange coordinator was the first to encourage me to consider TUM – his recommendation gave me the initial push. After that, my family and friends supported me emotionally. I knew that if I could succeed in this experience, I would benefit enormously – not only academically but also personally. For me, it was mainly about building confidence and pushing beyond my own boundaries.
Why did you choose TUM?
My professor contacted Amanda from the Incoming Team at the TUM Global & Alumni Office, who immediately sent information and helpful links. My professor was convinced that TUM would be a great destination for my exchange semester and forwarded me the email. I also spoke with students who had already studied at TUM, and they likewise recommended spending a semester in Munich.
What is your daily life like in India?
The IIT Roorkee campus is very well organized – dormitories, lecture halls, the cafeteria, and other facilities are all centrally located. I have close contact with staff members who support me throughout my studies. A campus guard helps me get from one place to another when needed, and my friends are also there for me. Everything works very well, and I have access to all the necessary facilities, including the cafeteria, where we get affordable meals.
Did you have to make any medical preparations for your semester abroad?
No, there weren’t any special preparations required. I continued with my regular medical care and contacted my doctor, who provided me with a five-month supply of medication. That was sufficient.
Did you have any concerns about studying at TUM and living in Germany?
When I applied in September, many details were still unclear, so naturally I felt a bit nervous. The support from IIT in this regard was limited, but my family stood by me the entire time. What helped me was the thought that I would find a way – and the motivation to take all the necessary steps to make it possible.
What kind of support did you receive from IITR and TUM?
From IITR I received general guidance regarding visa matters, applications, and academic procedures. They contacted TUM once to check whether my stay would be possible, after which everything was to be handled directly with TUM.
At TUM, the support from my coordinators – Amanda, Larissa, Lena, Julia, and Zuzana – was outstanding. They explored every possible option and were always there whenever something needed clarification or when hurdles had to be overcome. For that I am truly grateful. Especially during the preparation phase, however, we realized that some things simply weren’t feasible and that we kept running into bureaucratic obstacles – which at times caused a fair amount of frustration for all of us. At the same time, many things turned out to be surprisingly straightforward: after consulting with the Student Union, for example, I was able to get a room that was close to campus, well connected to public transportation, and surrounded by all the essential facilities.
Skydiving in Leutkirch, Allgäu from over 4,000 meters – an experience you’ll never forget! Image: Aryan Dhas / TUM
First visit to the Garching Campus and the Informatics building after arriving in Munich. Image: Aryan Dhas / TUM
Aryan with program coordinators Lena Hengstler (Informatics), Larissa Meier, and Amanda Gesang (TUM Global & Alumni Office). Image: Amanda Gesang / TUM
In his free time, Aryan likes to go hiking. Image Aryan Dhas / TUM
Usually together with new friends from his home university, IIT Roorkee, whom he met at TUM. Image: Aryan Dhas / TUM
Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle was a real highlight! Image: Aryan Dhas / TUM
During his family’s visit, Aryan took the chance for a few short trips – including a visit to Rome. Image: Aryan Dhas / TUM
With his sister Vaishnavi at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Image: Aryan Dhas / TUM
Go-to place in Munich: the lookout point on Olympiaberg. Image: Aryan Dhas / TUM
How are you experiencing your studies at TUM?
I’m taking three courses: a lecture course with a final exam, a practical course with weekly assignments and discussions, and an online management course where I had to submit a reflection paper and work on a topic – in essence, a kind of pitch.
The courses are flexible, and I can organize my work rhythm on my own. The environment is very positive, with open communication and a strong focus on academic exchange – completely different from the often hectic routine in India. I applied for accommodations, such as extra exam time and note-taking support. In the end, my exam will take place orally.
And what is life like in Munich?
Life here is dynamic and exciting. I cook every day, brought some Indian spices from home, and often go shopping with friends. Munich is lively, with lots to explore. During my stay, I’ve done a lot: visited Neuschwanstein Castle, hiked in the Alps, explored cities like Vienna and Rome – and even went skydiving!”
How about friends and your free time?
Because of delays with my visa, I missed the orientation weeks, which made the start a bit challenging. Most of my courses are virtual, so I mainly met fellow students in person at the dorm. I also met other Indian students, whose community quickly became mine.
I spend most of my free time with friends – hiking, exploring the city, or joining group activities. Skydiving was particularly memorable – unforgettable! I also love the slide in the Math and Informatics building! Every Thursday, I go down it once and get a nice energy boost.
Where do you live, and how do you experience the dorm?
I live in a dorm near the TUM Campus Garching. It’s not gender-segregated, which is new for me. I see it as an advantage because it allows me to meet a wide variety of people. Being so close to campus, the whole area now feels familiar and comfortable.
What will you take away for your future?
Through the exchange, I realized that I want to pursue a research-oriented career – most likely a PhD. My goal is to make a meaningful contribution. My time in Munich is helping me build connections, broaden my perspectives, and gain clarity about my professional goals. I plan to go abroad again and gather more new experiences.
As for me personally… I have already learned a lot about individuality. I don’t need to measure myself against others; I can follow my own path. It’s not about outperforming anyone else, but about responding to real societal needs.
Would you like to leave a message for us and our readers?
Yes, there’s an Indian proverb that deeply resonates with me: “Your life should be big, not long.” It means life should be rich in experiences and meaning – not necessarily long, but fulfilling. You should live fully, embrace your past and present, and allow yourself to feel the entire spectrum of emotions — sadness, joy, excitement. Live your life with intention, and make the most of every moment!