Beatrice Zaage

Fulfilling Fulbright Dreams: Leaders in Entrepreneurship at Virginia Tech - Week Three Highlights – Part III

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract

The final chapters of our Fulbright journey at Virginia Tech were marked by unforgettable moments in weekend #2 and Week #3. Weekend #2 brought us a scenic hike to McAfee’s Knob, despite the unexpected rain. We indulged in card games, campfire reflections, and celebrated a birthday. On Sunday, some explored Roanoke, while others opted for a cozy retreat at the hotel, complete with movies. Week #3 began with academics, laundry, and adventurous activities. We enjoyed an inspiring seminar, a reflective bonfire evening, souvenir shopping, and heartfelt conversations during girls’ night. The week culminated with pitch practice, a Closing Celebration, and emotional farewells. Weekend #3 witnessed our journey back home, with shared milkshakes and touching goodbyes. The adventure concluded with our return and the bittersweet task of saying farewell to cherished friends, followed by reuniting with our loved ones. This Fulbright experience at Virginia Tech leaves us with cherished memories and enduring connections, forever enriched by the journey.

Weekend #3: Weekend Escape: Nature’s Embrace and Relaxation

Day 16 - 09/09/23 – Saturday – McAfee’s Knob and bonfire

Weekend #2 of our Fulbright journey brought a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Saturday kicked off with a hearty breakfast featuring yogurt with fruits and the preparation of lunch bags filled with sandwiches and fresh fruits.

Our day’s highlight was a captivating hike to McAfee’s Knob, renowned as the most photographed overlook on the Appalachian Trail. However, Mother Nature had her own plans, and rain joined us on our adventure. Undeterred, we embraced the weather and found solace in card games, sharing stories around the campfire, and indulging in a delicious birthday cake to celebrate a special day.

Day 17 - 09/10/23 – Sunday – Stiles Falls

Sunday morning saw some of us embark on a tranquil walk to a nearby waterfall (Stiles Falls), immersing ourselves in the beauty of nature even in the rain. Others chose to explore Roanoke, while a few, including myself, returned to the hotel for a day of leisure, relishing good food and movies. Weekend #2 was a testament to our ability to find joy in both adventure and relaxation, forging deeper bonds and creating lasting memories along the way.

Extra knowledge

Randy, short for Randolph, Stiles served as a Confederate sailor during the Civil War. The origin of the name “Stiles Falls” on the property traces back to a tragic incident at a Sunday School picnic held at Crockett Springs by the falls. Randy, displaying the skills he had honed while swinging from ship riggings, attempted to swing on tree limbs and vines but tragically fell to his death. This event memorializes the location as “Stiles Falls.”

Week #3: Academic Engagement, Entrepreneurship Festival, and Retreat

Day 18 - 09/11/23 – Monday – Venture Out

Our third week at Virginia Tech began with the familiar rhythm of breakfast and the resumption of our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” course at the Apex Center for Entrepreneurship. Lunch provided a welcome break, and some of us tackled the practical task of laundry. In the afternoon we headed to the Venture Out Center, where we successfully completed various individual and group challenges. When evening came, we ate a hearty dinner together.

Day 19 - 09/12/23 – Tuesday – Bonfire reflections

Tuesday commenced with another satisfying breakfast, followed by our entrepreneurship course. The day held a special treat: the Pamplin College of Business Entrepreneurship Seminar 3. This event included inspiring words from Koehler at CRC, accompanied by a delicious lunch.

As night fell, we gathered around a bonfire at the Duck Pond Amphitheater for moments of reflection and shared camaraderie.

Day 20 - 09/13/23 – Wednesday – Girls Night

A delightful breakfast prepared us for another productive day in our entrepreneurship course. During our break, some ventured into Christiansburg for souvenir shopping, while others enjoyed lunch. The evening was dedicated to a girls’ night, fostering deep conversations and connections among our group.

Day 21 - 09/14/23 – Thursday – Process pitches and Closing Celebration

Thursday started with breakfast and our entrepreneurship course, where we fine-tuned our pitches. After a satisfying lunch, we transitioned to the Process Pitch Event. Here, our pitches were evaluated and critiqued by Ron Poff, Lisa Garcia, and Dan Lundberg, providing valuable feedback. The day culminated in a Closing Celebration at the Inn, complete with dinner, a photo slideshow capturing our journey, certificates, coins, and a fun photoshoot.

Day 22 - 09/15/23 – Friday – Time to say Goodbye

Our final day of the program began with breakfast and a reflective session in our entrepreneurship course. We packed our belongings and shared a farewell dinner. The evening took an emotional turn as we attended a Frat Party, bidding heartfelt goodbyes to our mentors, marking the end of an unforgettable chapter.

Weekend #4: Back again at Germany – Hello my loved ones

Day 23 - 09/16/23 – Saturday Blacksburg -> IAD -> FRA

Saturday marked our departure from Blacksburg as we checked out of the Inn and embarked on a 5-hour bus ride to Dulles International Airport. We made the most of our airport time, indulging in milkshakes before our departure at 6 p.m.

Day 24 - 09/17/23 – Sunday: Welcome Home

Our journey brought us back home on Sunday, landing at 8:10 a.m. While we bid farewell to most of our fellow travelers, our hearts were filled with the memories of an incredible Fulbright experience. By 11 a.m., I boarded a train to Hanover, where, at 3:00 p.m., I joyfully reunited with my loved ones.

Conclusion

The third week was a blend of reflection, learning, and the bittersweet taste of farewell, marking the end of a remarkable Fulbright journey.

Embarking on Academic Adventures: Fulbright's Leaders in Entrepreneurship at Virginia Tech - Week Two Insights – Part II

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract

Our Fulbright journey’s weekend was a blend of camaraderie, insights, and cultural immersion. It began with a spirited Mini World Cup tournament and interviews for our academic pursuits. In the evening, some experienced American football’s electric atmosphere. In the second week of our Fulbright adventure, our focus shifted to academic pursuits and cultural immersion. We explored the Pamplin College of Business Entrepreneurship Seminar 2 at CID, delving into innovation and entrepreneurship. This week also introduced us to the vibrant entrepreneurial culture at Virginia Tech. Our cultural exploration continued with “Entreprelooza,” a lively Entrepreneurship Festival where Diar Khal’s $1000 prize win highlighted our group’s entrepreneurial spirit. Week two was characterized by academic depth, cultural immersion, and an ongoing journey of discovery within the Fulbright program.

Weekend #2: Sports, River Adventures and Movie Discussions

Day 9 - 09/02/23 – Saturday – GAME DAY

As the weekend rolled in, we were in for a dynamic and culturally enriching experience. The day started with a Mini World Cup tournament alongside the Mozaiko intramurals team at the Lower Recreational Fields. It was a fantastic opportunity to engage in friendly competition and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship. Later in the day, we took on a different kind of challenge—interviews for our class. These interviews would be instrumental in our academic pursuits, offering insights and perspectives that would enrich our studies. In the evening, many of our fellow participants, as well as Virginia Tech students, headed to the American Football game between Virginia Tech and Old Dominion. While some reveled in the electric atmosphere of the crowded stadium, a few of us, including myself, opted for a more relaxed experience. We decided to watch the game from the comfort of our hotel beds, which not only provided a different perspective but also allowed us to learn about the advertising culture in the United States. The spirit of American football was palpable throughout the weekend, creating an unforgettable experience for all.

Day 10 - 09/03/23 – Sunday – Tubing

Sunday began with a hearty breakfast, setting the tone for a day of outdoor adventure. We made our way to the New River for a tubing excursion, accompanied by a delightful picnic. Floating down the river amidst picturesque surroundings offered a unique and relaxing experience, allowing us to appreciate the natural beauty of the region. In the evening, we continued our cultural exploration with a visit to the B&B Theatre. Divided into groups, some of us watched “Oppenheimer,” while others enjoyed “Barbie.” These cinematic experiences were followed by engaging discussions, providing diverse perspectives and insights into the films.

Week #2: Academic Engagement, Entrepreneurship Festival, and Retreat

Day 11 - 09/04/23 – Monday – Labor Day – U.S. Federal Holiday

Labor Day brought a break from our academic pursuits, as there were no classes scheduled for the day. It was an ideal opportunity to wrap up our customer interviews, a vital component of our ongoing academic projects. This weekend was a rich tapestry of experiences, from sports and outdoor adventures to cultural explorations through film discussions. It underscored the diversity and vibrancy of our Fulbright journey, leaving us eagerly anticipating the adventures that lay ahead.

Day 12 - 09/05/23 – Tuesday – Game Changer Week

The second week of our Fulbright adventure kicked off with a busy Tuesday. We began our day with breakfast at Turners, fueling ourselves for another round of academic exploration. Our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” course met at the Apex Center for Entrepreneurship, where we delved deeper into the world of entrepreneurship. In the afternoon, we attended the Pamplin College of Business Entrepreneurship Seminar 2 at CID (Creativity and Innovation District). This session included an “Innovate tour” where we had the opportunity to explore the CID and enjoy a productive lunch. The day concluded with an engaging event, “Game Changer Events,” featuring insightful talks and introductions to key figures in the field.

Day 13 - 09/06/23 – Wednesday – Entreprelooza at APEX

Wednesday started with another delightful breakfast at Turners before our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” class at the Apex Center. Following the morning session, we took a break for lunch. The afternoon allowed for some practical matters, including laundry—a reminder that while we embarked on this academic journey, daily life continued. In the evening, our cultural exploration continued with “Entreprelooza,” an Entrepreneurship Festival held at the Apex Center for Entrepreneurs. The highlight of the evening was Diar Khal winning a prize of $1000, a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit among our group.

Extra-Knowledge

Diar Khal is the managing director of NewStarters and is dedicated to IT tasks as a trained software developer and student of cyber security. This innovative platform, available in eight languages, is dedicated to helping refugees from Eastern Europe find jobs and achieve long-term integration into their host countries. By providing equal access to essential services like education and healthcare, Diar and his team are making a meaningful impact on the lives of refugees. NewStarters is a beacon of hope, demonstrating how compassion and innovation can create positive change and foster a more inclusive society. For more Information visit: https://www.newstarters.de/en/mission/

Day 14 - 09/07/23 – Thursday – A short visit at CELLINK

Thursday began with breakfast at Turners, followed by our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” course at the Apex Center. A hearty lunch provided sustenance for the day’s activities. In the afternoon, we embarked on a visit to a startup site, specifically the satellite lab of CELLINK at CRC. This visit offered valuable insights into the world of startups and innovation. The day concluded with a well-deserved dinner, allowing us to relax and reflect on the experiences of the day.

Day 15 - 09/08/23 – Friday – Final Pitches at Game Changer week

Our final day of the second week brought some logistical changes. We had to check out of our rooms at the Inn and load the vans for a retreat weekend. This change in accommodation was due to the hotel being fully booked because of a major football game. Before leaving, we enjoyed a breakfast together, setting the stage for a day of unique experiences. We had the opportunity to watch the final pitches of the Game Changer Week, where Diar also delivered a pitch.

Later in the day, we attended the International Café Hour: Germany, where we indulged in traditional German cuisine, including “Kaiserschmarrn”, “Schnitzel”, “Rotkohl”, and “Apfelschorle”. This was accompanied by informative presentations about German culture.

Finally, we departed for our retreat weekend from Harper Hall to the Alta Mons retreat center in Shawsville. The day ended on a sporty note with a visit to the Salem Red Sox Baseball Game and a delightful dinner in Salem, VA.

Conclusion

Week #2 was a blend of academic engagement, cultural exploration, and bonding experiences, further enriching our Fulbright journey.

Empowering Innovation: My Fulbright Germany 'Leaders in Entrepreneurship' Scholarship Journey at Virginia Tech – Part I - The Fulbright Journey Begins

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract

The first week of the Fulbright program at Virginia Tech marked the beginning of an exciting academic adventure. The journey commenced with our arrival in Frankfurt, Germany, followed by our gradual immersion into the world of academia. Throughout this week, we embarked on a profound exploration of entrepreneurship, engaging in inspiring conversations. Our campus tour guided by peer mentors showcased iconic university landmarks, including the Torgersen Bridge, the war memorial, and the Drillfield. We also ventured into the world of business and innovation, learning about Virginia Tech’s collaborations with local startups and the intriguing applications of hydrogen in the shipping industry. The week concluded on a communal note, fostering connections among scholars through collaborative events such as Community Friday and Globberfest, providing a strong foundation for the enlightening journey ahead.

Weekend #1

Day 0 – Thursday - 08/24/23 – Arrival at Frankfurt (Main)

Saying goodbye to the familiar streets of Hanover was bittersweet. We were leaving behind the comforts of home for an exciting adventure in Frankfurt, where a Fulbright scholarship awaited. As we arrived in Frankfurt, the city buzzed with anticipation. Our first stop was the hotel, where we checked in and met our roommates. What seemed like random roommate assignments turned into a delightful surprise when we realized that we shared the same mentor—a sign that our journey was destined for connection and camaraderie.

The hotel lobby quickly became a hub of introductions, where we met fellow Fulbright scholars. Dinner beckoned, and we expanded our circle by inviting others who weren’t staying at our hotel to join us. With drinks in hand, we strolled along the serene banks of the Rhine, our conversations spanning from personal stories to our expectations for the exciting weeks ahead. As the night fell, we headed to our rooms, eagerly anticipating what the next day would bring.

Day 1 – Friday - 08/25/23 – Departure FRA -> IAD

Day one of our Fulbright adventure brought us to Frankfurt Airport, where we met the rest of our group. However, a delay tested our patience as our flight was pushed back by two hours. Despite this hiccup, our excitement remained undiminished. Finally, we took to the skies, bound for our destination: Washington D.C. After landing, we braved the rain as we navigated the metro to downtown, where our check-in awaited us. Dinner brought us together, and some of us even ventured to see the iconic White House in the evening, a symbol of the journey we had just embarked upon.

Day 2 – Saturday - 08/26/23 – Washington D.C

A new day in Washington D.C. began with breakfast in the cozy confines of our hotel lounge. Here, we gathered to introduce ourselves and share stories, fostering a sense of unity among our diverse group. A walking tour allowed us to explore the city, taking in poignant landmarks like the Black Lives Matter Plaza, the White House, and the Capitol. A lunch break in the bustling Chinatown district provided a chance to savor the local flavors. In the afternoon, we delved into American history at the Smithsonian National Museum and the National Gallery. The day culminated with a delightful dinner together at Founding Farmers & Distillers, solidifying the bonds we were forming.

Day 3 – Sunday - 08/27/23 – Off to Blacksburg

The morning sun greeted us as we enjoyed breakfast in the hotel lounge, energizing us for the day ahead. We gathered for a reflective conversation, sharing our thoughts and aspirations. Then, it was time to embark on the next leg of our journey, a bus ride to the picturesque Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg, VA. The bus journey was anything but ordinary, filled with music and games that brought laughter and camaraderie. Upon arrival at The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center, we checked in, excited for the days to come. The evening was a memorable one, marked by the International Student Reception at Hahn Garden Pavilion, where we had our first encounter with our mentors—a group of individuals who would guide and inspire us on this incredible Fulbright adventure.

Week #1: Immersed in Entrepreneurial Learning

Day 4 – Monday - 08/28/23 – First day of class

As the week progressed, our Fulbright adventure delved into the realm of academia. Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Turners, fueling us for the academic journey ahead. The Apex Center for Entrepreneurs hosted our Academic Program Orientation, where we were introduced to the exciting world of entrepreneurship. Our first class, “Foundations of Entrepreneurship,” kicked off with a deep dive into the essence of entrepreneurship itself. We pondered the question: What is Entrepreneurship? The discussions were invigorating and set the tone for the days to come.

Lunch provided a moment of respite on campus before we embarked on a campus tour led by our peer mentors. From the iconic Torgersen Bridge to the memorial court and the vibrant Drillfield, our mentors guided us through the heart of Virginia Tech. We also explored the Engineering Department, gaining insights into the university’s academic landscape. The day concluded with a satisfying dinner, as we continued to build connections with our fellow Fulbright scholars.

Extra-Knowledge

The upper level of the War Memorial showcases Memorial Court, adorned with eight finely sculpted Indiana limestone pylons. These pylons represent an array of virtues, positioned from left to right: Brotherhood, Honor, Leadership, Sacrifice, Service, Loyalty, Duty, and “Ut Prosim”, embodying the university’s motto, “That I May Serve.”

Engraved onto these pylons are the names of alumni who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the military. Henry Kries was the designer behind the four left pylons, while Charles Rudy is attributed to the design of the right pylons. At the center of Memorial Court stands a cenotaph, bearing the names of seven esteemed alumni who were recipients of the Medal of Honor. Source: https://www.vt.edu/about/locations/buildings/war-memorial-chapel.html, 20.09.2023.

Day 5 – Tuesday - 08/29/23 – What role does hydrogen play here?

Our second day of academic exploration began with breakfast at Turners, quickly becoming a favorite spot for our morning meals. The Apex Center for Entrepreneurship was our destination once again, where our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” course resumed. Today’s agenda was brimming with intrigue as we delved into the Pamplin College of Business Entrepreneurship Seminar 1 at the Corporate Research Center (CRC). Here, we explored the dynamic interplay between Virginia Tech and local startups, with a fascinating case study on the role of hydrogen in the shipping industry.

Dinner marked the end of our academic day, allowing us to reflect on the wealth of knowledge we had gained.

Day 6 – Wednesday - 08/30/23 – American Sports

Midweek brought with it another day of academic engagement. After breakfast at Turners, we returned to the Apex Center for Entrepreneurship for our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” class. A lunch break provided a brief respite, and then we embarked on a unique adventure - a visit to the ESM Statics lecture with Prof. Jared Gragg, expanding our horizons beyond entrepreneurship.

In the afternoon, we explored the impressive VT Athletics Facilities, including the Basketball Hall and the monumental Lane Stadium, which could host over 65,000 spectators. The day concluded with an elegant dinner at the University Club within Lane Stadium, where we savored the blend of academia and sports that Virginia Tech had to offer.

Day 7 – Thursday - 08/31/23 – Bowling time

As our week continued, our routine remained steady. We started the day with breakfast at Turners and returned to the Apex Center for Entrepreneurship for our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” course. After a lunch break, we took care of some practical matters, including laundry, ensuring that our Fulbright experience would be as comfortable as it was enriching.

In the evening, we headed to Breakzone in Squires Student Center for a lively game of bowling, a delightful way to unwind and bond with fellow scholars.

Day 8 - 09/01/23 – Friday – Globberfest and Pizza

The week drew to a close with another breakfast at Turners, followed by our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” course at the Apex Center for Entrepreneurs. Fridays at Virginia Tech were special - it was Community Friday at the Apex Center, an event that brought us together over pizza, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

In the afternoon, we ventured to the Drillfield for Globberfest, an annual fair of student organizations. Here, we explored the vibrant campus culture, discovering the multitude of student-driven initiatives that enriched our Fulbright experience.

Conclusion

Week #1 was a blend of academic exploration, campus discovery, and bonding with our fellow Fulbright scholars, setting the stage for a fulfilling and transformative journey ahead.

Designing Covers for a used pair Quadral Altan Golds HiFi Speakers

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Since my used Quadral Altan Gold speaker pair did not come with speaker covers when I bought them and they have not been available as spare parts for a long time due to the old age of the speakers, I had no choice but to build them myself.

I first decided to go with a multi-material solution, as the shape of the cover would otherwise require a CNC router due to complicated curves. As a base plate, an MDF board will be cut to size so that a stable base frame is created. A normal jigsaw should be sufficient for this. The more complicated part are the rounded corners, which I planed to realize with the help of several 3D printed parts that will be attached to the MDF board. To do this, I recreated a model of the speaker in Autodesk AutoCAD, which gave me an accurate basis for my own design decisions.

Due to the thinness of the sides on the two large speakers, I ended up 3D printing the frame entirely.

Within two hours, the center part was printed successfully. To save supports, the model was laid on the print bed. The infill consists of a Gyroid for all parts. This type of infill is very stable and therefore well suited for the expected loads of this frame. A disadvantage is the longer printing time, because this form is a more complex structure, unlike, for example, honeycombs.

Due to a measurement error, the model still had to be adjusted a little.