Germany had been his goal since childhood. Since then, he had wanted to live here. While many students take a long time to make such a life-changing decision, it was a clear step for him. A simple tourist visit was enough to spark his passion and steer his life in a new direction.
Today, Omar Abdelhady is a young researcher in the fields of computational design in architecture, generative design, robotics and digital fabrication. These disciplines are closely related to artificial intelligence, programming and engineering. These cutting-edge and interdisciplinary topics are shaping the architecture and engineering of tomorrow.
“It wasn't hard to find out that the TH OWL offers exactly such future-oriented programs – and all in English! I was thrilled to find this in Detmold, a small town in East Westphalia, of all places. Despite the size of the town, it has an international vision and relies on modern technology,” he enthuses.
Omar advises new students not to move directly to a big city. In his opinion, it is better to start in a smaller town where you can get to know the area and get used to the German language more easily. “Big cities are often stressful, and it takes longer to settle in and adapt there.”
Although Omar comes from Cairo – a bustling metropolis with more than 23 million people – and has also lived in Stuttgart, he likes it in Detmold. “My experience in Stuttgart during my first master's degree was quite different. In Detmold, I have time for myself, can enjoy nature and find privacy. I appreciate that very much. The small town makes it possible for me to concentrate on my studies and my career, to organize my time well and to do exactly what I need. Besides, Detmold is beautiful with its nature and environment. From here, I can travel all over Germany and still always return to my little feel-good bubble.”
Omar Abdelhady met many friends from around the world during his studies. He describes himself as open-minded and adaptable: “Everyone can find their place here and discover groups of like-minded people. The students learn to integrate in a variety of ways, and the atmosphere is very welcoming.”
In his free time, he likes to play soccer – his favorite sport – and he enjoys hiking, for example to the Externsteine, a group of sandstone rocks near Detmold, or going for a stroll through Detmold's old town. He particularly appreciates the friendliness of the people here. “Even if you don't speak perfect German or English, people are patient with you and open to other cultures.”
Omar was actively involved in university projects during his studies. He is currently working as a research assistant at FabLab, a state-of-the-art makerspace at TH OWL. “I work there on two levels: on the one hand, I advise students who have difficulties operating machines or need help building their models. On the other hand, I work on my own research projects, where I develop creative ideas and turn them into reality.”
The TH OWL is happy to support Omar and other students in improving their career prospects through cooperation with companies in the region. He sees this network as a great opportunity to pursue his passion and continue his career in Germany.
The young man also encourages other students from Egypt to follow their dreams. “You have to work hard and pursue your passion. Here in Germany, you have a real opportunity to achieve your goals.”
A fellow student from Egypt, whom Omar met again at the TH OWL, provided additional motivation for him to take the plunge. “In Egypt, there are no comparable courses of study that combine engineering, architecture and advanced technologies such as robotics and AI. Germany is the country of industry, and it is here that you can find such specializations.”
Omar Abdelhady received the DAAD Award for outstanding social commitment in 2024. His story shows how a dream and a clear vision can steer life in a completely new direction. With his commitment and the support of the university, Omar has achieved his goals and also found a new home here in OWL.
