I grew up in the German city of Freiburg. After eight years living, studying and working in North America and China, I have moved back to Europe in 2017. I consider myself fortunate for having had the opportunity to travel extensively at a young age. I think of myself as a world-citizen, being first of all human, then European and only then German - not the other way around. After having spend the last decade working mostly as an university researcher, I have recently transitioned into an industry job in the filed of engineering. At university, we create new knowledge. As an engineer, I now work to make new technology utilizable for the public. A task I much enjoy. I believe that human interaction - friendship and relationship - are at the core of a meaningful life. I am grateful for couch-surfing, as it provides an opportunity to meet and learn from strangers. For decoupling monetary wealth from travel. For connecting people from all parts of the world.