An Ideal College Lifestyle Abroad Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The courses weren't as strenuous as at my home university, but that isn't to say I didn't learn as much. They were module-based courses, so we took one class at a time which helped to dive in to the course material more. The teachers were very knowledgeable, yet approachable, and had high expectations.

On-site administration of your program

So many resources at your fingertips, including caring and helpful IES program center staff. They made asking for help a really nice experience.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in a university-supported dorm-style apartment (with two bathrooms and a kitchen) very close to the center of the city. I was with five Germans and one other American. This was one of the ways I made very close German friends. My room was big enough and had a large window with good lighting and a desk.

As a vegan in Germany, I could not have been happier if I were living anywhere other than Freiburg. So many vegetarian and vegan options, while still offering many classic German restaurants, biergartens and cafes. I mostly bought from grocery stores and my neighborhood farmers market, though, and made communal meals in my apartment.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Taking a class at Uni-Freiburg was really helpful to meet and spend time like a local. Also living with other German students in my apartment housing really made me feel like just another German student there. I had a tandem partner, as well, but we didn't meet much.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have any healthcare issues or encounters, but we received many resources at the start of the program for what to do if in need of care.

I'm pretty sure bike theft is the highest-frequency crime in Freiburg, so I definitely felt safe. At night if coming home from a club or bar I would definitely not be alone (especially if walking - I often biked home alone), but generally I would follow common-sense city safety.

The place, the people, the program -- all made my experience so special and more than worthwhile.

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

If you didn't travel much outside of Freiburg, and shopped intelligently in grocery stores, it was pretty easy to maintain a budget.

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

Always and often! If we knew German, our program staff would speak to us in German and they were always sending opportunities to meet people and experience the German language and culture.

Select all that apply

• Dorm
• Apartment

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

Select all that apply

• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• Situated in the Black Forest and encouraged hiking and learning from field excursions.
• Trips in and around the city for our classes.
• The free time for exploring, traveling, making new friends.

• More rigorous classes (without encroaching on outside free time).
• Giving partcipants more information beforehand, especially about academics and schedules.
• A bigger emphasis on joining groups at the University.

The Nearly Native or Trail Blazer