Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Berlin is a fun, welcoming city with an interesting culture. Past Review

By (Sociology., Clark University - Worcester) - abroad from 08/20/2013 to 12/06/2013 with

CIEE: Berlin - Open Campus Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes, it was worthwhile. I realized travel is very achievable. New experiences draw people together and form great friendships. I learned I am adaptable and can handle living far from home and independently.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $120-$150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? use public transit instead of cabs even though it can be more time consuming, buy your own groceries, attend programs held activities because usually all costs are a part of program fees

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Intermediate Spanish
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Don't be afraid to talk to Germans when you're out. Most Germans speak both German and English so even if you struggle to communicate in German they can help you figure it out by explaining it in English. People enjoy it too because they like to practice their English. Make German friends and find a tandem partner.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • excursions
  • the language course
  • the introductory week
* What could be improved?
  • More free time
  • More interaction with German students
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew I could take intensive German as a beginning German student. It is very cold in Berlin; I wish I brought warmer clothes. Comfortable shoes that can handle a lot of walking is important too.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Nearly Native or Trail Blazer
Craving the most authentic experience possible, perhaps you lived with a host family or really got in good with the locals. You may have felt confined by your program requirements and group excursions. Instead, you'd have preferred to plan your own trips, even skipping class to conduct your own 'field work.'