Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Marburg- Real Life Fairy tale Past Review

By (German, Berea College) - abroad from 02/23/2015 to 06/12/2015 with

Philipps-Universität / University of Marburg: Marburg -International Undergraduate Study Program / IUSP

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about what I do and don't want to do with my life. It was definitely worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

They classes were very well balanced and focused. I would have preferred a but more focus on writing, but overall I think I received a well-rounded semester.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration of the program was pretty good, but I think it could have been a bit more organized.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing was sub-par at best. My student housing did not have any internet access whatsoever. That made it a little difficult to complete my course work.

* Food:

The food was always good.

* 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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Stick to your budget

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? 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? I had completed 300 level courses in German
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Do not be afraid to speak the language...no one is judging you

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local 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?
  • Germany
  • Independence
  • Affordable
* What could be improved?
  • Organization
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That people truly appreciate you trying to learn their language.

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!