Interview With Luisa Chan Leineweber
Hi, I’m Luisa. I’m going to tell you about my journey. It all started in my hometown of Lüdinghausen, a small but charming town in North Rhine-Westphalia, Western Germany. I grew up surrounded by a rich blend of cultures. My father is German, and my mother is Brazilian with Chinese roots. This multicultural environment taught me to appreciate different perspectives and traditions, and it ignited a curiosity in me that has driven much of my life.
My path took an unexpected turn when I found an apprenticeship at a screen-printing company after leaving school. I was hooked the first time I saw a screen-printing machine in action, with the smell of ink filling the air and the rhythmic noise of the press. I knew I wanted to understand these machines inside and out. For three years, I immersed myself in the world of screen printing, learning everything I could about the technology and techniques. However, I felt there was more to explore and learn.
This thirst for deeper knowledge led me to search for a program that could offer a more comprehensive education in printing technologies. That’s when I discovered a unique program in southern Germany that seemed tailor-made for me. It combined advanced studies in printing technology with an international, English-speaking environment. This program was the perfect fit. It not only covered all the essential topics needed to become an engineer but also reflected the global nature of the industry. Speaking English is quite common in this field, as many companies are internationally connected.
The international aspect of the program was the main reason I wanted to take part. I’ve always enjoyed connecting with people from different cultures, and this program offered a diverse mix of students from all over the world. The experience of learning and growing with such a diverse group has been invaluable. Every day brings new perspectives and ideas, making the learning environment incredibly dynamic and enriching.
Stuttgart is an amazing city, and I’m lucky to be studying here. It’s vibrant and full of life, and there’s always something new to discover. The city’s proximity to many technology companies makes it the perfect place for someone in my field. The Hochschule der Medien (HdM) is the best. The professors are experienced, and the equipment is state-of-the-art. We get the best possible education.
Moving to southern Germany has been an eye-opener in many ways. I’ve noticed regional differences even within the same country, which makes life here even more interesting. I am grateful for these experiences, which have helped me grow both personally and professionally.
I am certain that my multicultural upbringing has played a crucial role in shaping who I am today. It has taught me to be open-minded and adaptable—qualities that are essential in our ever-changing world. As I continue my journey, I’m excited about the future and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. The world of printing technology is vast and full of potential, and I’m eager to see where this path will take me.