Ich bin Berliner! Past Review

By (Washington and Lee University) - abroad from 06/05/2018 to 07/21/2018 with

IES Abroad: Berlin - Study Abroad With IES Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I improved in my German language skills. I went from barely having the confidence to ask for directions to telling a Döner store owner that I wish I had discovered his shop sooner and that his shop was my favorite - all in German.

Review Photos

IES Abroad: Berlin - Study Abroad With IES Abroad Photo

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.

Phenomenal professors from nearby Humboldt Universität!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Wonderful home-stay with a very lovely retired, couple with two adorable cats! I was assigned to live in Prenzlauer Berg - a wonderful neighborhood with cute shops, cafes, and restaurants.

* Food:

Döner and Currywurst are my go-to for lunch break!

* 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

The IES program enabled me to really be on my own to explore the city, but at the same time offering courses that really piqued my interests and allowed me to explore.

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)

As a city, Berlin is expensive, however cost is very manageable.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $20 per week
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? If you can't cook, don't worry! There are plenty of cheap eats around that are delicious and healthy.

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

I took courses that involved studying German film and Literature, so I received full exposure to the language daily.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? German 262
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 shy! You are abroad to learn and practice. It's ok to mess up, with enough practice, you'll be confident!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • The city I was in
  • Classes that I took
  • The activities and moments with my friends
* What could be improved?
  • More course offerings to be taught in full German
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? To not hesitate and really seize the chance to explore Berlin.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!