More than Studying Abroad: Really living in Berlin for a Year Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload is set up completely differently, with minimal work turned into the professor until the end of the semester. For most of my courses, students are assigned readings and expected to discuss them during class. Usually, each student gives a 20-minute presentation about a text or subject, and that starts off the discussion. Classes end, and a 10-15 page final paper is due sometime before the next semester starts. Also, the semesters in Berlin are on a different schedule: winter semester is from mid-October to mid-February and summer semester is April to late-July. I didn't really care for the semester setup, since it's difficult to focus when friends in other countries are on break, and it leaves exchange students with a short summer vacation.

On-site administration of your program

The program is very hands-off, which has its positive and negative aspects. Students are encouraged to be independent and learn the language, which is great. However, sometimes the administration can seem inattentive and unable to attend to students' needs. I had an issue with housing, and I felt as though I had to beg the administration to take notice and help out.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

For the first month, I lived with a host family (a mother, her partner, and a daughter my age). They had their own lives and were busy, but we made time to have dinner together and interact regularly, which improved my language skills. I felt like a welcomed guest in their house; I was able to come and go freely but still enjoyed socializing. In addition, everything was provided for me: breakfast, a bed, internet, etc. After that, I decided to forgo student housing (which is near the university, about an hour from the city center) and live in a shared apartment. I had a lot of troubles finding a place and ended up staying with friends or renting a room for a short period of time (2-4 weeks) before finding a place that suited me. The apartment was partially furnished with a bed and desk, so I bought a wardrobe, sheets, blankets, a mirror, etc. Cookware is shared, as is some of the food.

I am vegan, and I'd been to Berlin twice before, so I knew I would have no problem eating here. There is an abundance of vegan options, and I can easily go to a variety of specialty vegan shops, cafes, and restaurants. I often cook at home, but I know that I can eat almost anywhere in Berlin, as many regular restaurants know about veganism and are willing to accommodate my needs. I've traveled to other cities around Europe, and Berlin is hands-down one of the best cities for vegans. You can get amazing Asian food; falafel; vegan fast food (pizzas, burgers, döner); healthy, hearty food; and upscale vegan cuisine in this city.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I enjoyed the cultural excursions organized by my program; it allowed students to take a few days off during the semester and experience a different German city. I have traveled a bit during my time abroad, but I often overlook cities in Germany and try to see other parts of Europe. I don't think I would have visited Weimar or Dresden on my own, and I enjoyed seeing another aspect of German culture and history and being able to still use the German language.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

In terms of safety, I feel like Berlin is pretty safe. Depending on the neighborhood, I feel safe going home alone at night, but I was once followed. I confronted the man and took a cab to avoid him, but I did feel unsafe for a while after the incident. Since then, I am aware but not afraid. Last semester, there was a safety alert because of the possible terrorist attacks on Germany's capital city. I received emails from my home university and my program that advised students to avoid major city centers and tourist hot-spots and try to blend in. Any attempted terrorist attacks were stopped, and everyone has been safe. I haven't had any experience with the healthcare system during my time abroad, but a friend in my program has. She accepted the student health insurance, which everyone was offered, and it covered her doctor appointment and also her weekly visits with a therapist. She said other forms of medicine, like acupuncture, are also covered by the student insurance. There was recently an e.coli outbreak, but I didn't hear anything from my program. I found out information through various news websites. No one in the program has gotten sick.

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

The program requires a 6-week intensive language course after arrival, which was incredibly helpful. I hadn't spoken German in a long time, so this review was much needed and definitely worthwhile. During the first month, students live with host families and speak the language with them. After that, I chose to live with German roommates and speak with them; in addition, everyday interactions are often in German. Most people here do speak English, so sometimes it can be difficult to practice German because oftentimes people will hear your accent or hear that you're struggling with the proper vocabulary or grammar and switch to English. I often speak with friends or other students in the program in English, but overall I do feel as though I was offered many opportunities to improve my language skills.

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• Host Family
• Apartment

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• International Students
• Local Students
• Host Family

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• Local Students