Philipp Koch, a new member of the Senate
"Teaching needs a fresh coat of paint"
Philipp, what is the most important topic for the students of TUM at the moment?
Many of my fellow students are concerned about the problematic housing situation – especially now, at the beginning of the winter semester. However, due to the increasing number of students at TUM, not only living space has become a contested resource, but also learning space. In order to be successful in a course of studies, all the framework conditions have to be ideal as well.
What are you studying at TUM and what inspired you to choose this course of studies?
I am a student of Mechanical Engineering, in the 5th semester of my Bachelor's studies. I am especially interested in aviation, especially because this field will be facing major changes in the coming decades. I want to do my part to make sustainable air travel possible, at least in theory.
What are your reasons for getting involved in university politics while studying?
Most importantly the challenge of trying to achieve something together with other people. It is often surprising how much you can achieve together – but I am also happy about the possibility of doing something for the next generation. And it is a welcome practical alternative to the actual studies, which can sometimes be quite theoretical.
What are your goals for this term of office? What are you looking forward to the most?
I would like to help improve the learning space situation, especially by means of the StudiTUM house at WZW, which is expected to open next year. Apart from that, I am convinced that the teaching needs a fresh coat of paint too. The interactive involvement of all students is the foundation for an appealing and audience-oriented teaching. But most of all, I am happy to meet all the different types of people who have ideas for the further development of this university in order to work together towards an even better TUM.
TUM has a new president. What do you expect from him?
Above all, I am hoping for a culture of open communication. I think we can create a huge swarm effect at TUM: everyone has great ideas, as you can tell from the idea competitions. We, the students, have a different perspective and can contribute new views. I believe that open communication can help to make TUM even better!
Philipp Koch (23) is from the south of Baden-Württemberg. He has now been involved in higher education policy for two years, most recently in the department of Mechanical Engineering and as a representative for the StudiTUM houses. He emphasizes that every TUM student who has an idea or suggestion can send him an e-mail at any time. Contact: philipp.koch@fs.tum.de