Unforgettable Germany! Past Review

By (German Studies, Hampden-Sydney College) - abroad from 05/28/2015 to 07/06/2015 with

Hampden-Sydney College: The Münster Summer Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned much about German history, culture, & language. It was definitely an experience that is unforgettable.

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)

Everything is much more expensive over there. Even basic necessities like water.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? You do NOT need to eat the amazing food everytime you go out!

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? Beginner
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? GERM 102
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? duolingo.com is a big help. It is very good at developing your knowledge in other languages.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Host Family
* 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?
  • Integration into the German society
  • Experiences with the Host Family
  • Exposure to German history and culture
* What could be improved?
  • Use of a textbook instead of handouts
  • Better pacing of curriculum; do not try to stuff too much in there
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The intensity of the curriculum. Even though you are in a new city in a new country, you have to understand that you will need to make time for the constant amount of work you will have.