Prof. Dr. Lara Ducate
Visiting professor
Lara Ducate was a visiting scholar at the Faculty of Engineering at HTWK in the summer semester 2024. She is a professor at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina, USA, and teaches courses on the German language and culture as well as on sustainability and the energy transition in Germany.
What memories do you associate with your time at HTWK Leipzig?
I met many nice, dedicated people at HTWK and learned about many interesting projects.
What excites you about your current job?
I really enjoy teaching my course, "Sustainability, Energy, Climate Protection: International Perspective." It is interesting to teach these topics from a different perspective and hear the students' opinions on them.
What has been one of your greatest professional challenges and how did you overcome it?
My greatest challenge has been and still is figuring out how to "do it all." I want to spend time with my husband and children, have time for myself, and also have a successful career. Sometimes I'm too hard on myself when I feel like I'm neglecting one of these things, but I try to be forgiving with myself and remember that everything balances out.
Who or what has particularly influenced you on your career path?
When I was in high school, I had a very good German teacher. With him and my classmates, I visited Germany for the first time. After that, I wanted to continue studying German, inspire others to learn about different cultures and perspectives, and start my own exchange program for American students. I did all of that. I have also had helpful colleagues in my career, with whom I have worked on many projects, and they have also influenced me.
How important are professional networks to your career?
For me, professional networks have been important for finding partners with whom I could conduct research or develop programs abroad.
What tips or advice would you give young women for their career planning?
Always try to stay in touch with the people you have met during your career and with whom you have worked well. It may happen later that you work with them again or even find other projects or job opportunities.
On what topics can you be approached for questions?
American culture, professional life as a woman