Abroad part 2: Deutschland Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Education is much different here, or so it seems. Maybe it's hearing the murmur of voices in a classroom and not being able to understand a word that they are saying, or how at the end of lectures students will rap their knuckles on their desks to show...something (appreciation/respect). It's almost as if they are applauding. Yet, as far as lectures and teaching goes, it seemed quite similar to the American educational system. I suppose the biggest difference is a lack of homework. I hardly have any! Just reading assignments upon reading assignments, and a final paper for each of my classes. It's different, but also a bit of a relief, my last semester at my home university was beyond stressful with my course load, and yet I find myself with a pleasant amount of free time here.

On-site administration of your program

What I've found as a bit of a disability has been the office's availability. Sometimes it is very hard to get in touch with someone, or it takes a period of days to receive any reply. This is not something I am use to at my home university. But, a great strength is their willingness to help and be supportive. They go above and beyond when you have a problem and in finding a solution.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My first housing assignment was in an apartment near the city center. I lived with two other students. I really enjoyed living there. The university was easily accessible (as I lived near a bus stop), but I was also close to many stores! After awhile though, I was anxious to live in the student dorms, and closer to the university in general, as I wanted to be closer to all of my friends. None of them lived in the city, all lived in the dorms! But both of my accommodations have been wonderful and clean.

I went from having a small fridge/freezer, toaster, microwave, and stove/oven to a stove/oven and a small compartment in a fridge. I adjusted well enough but I got in a routine of what meals I would eat.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Traveling was easy and fun, especially with the NRW card, where we could travel in a specific area of Germany for free! A memorable event that I would recommend to all who visit is Karneval!!!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

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

Most people spoke English, and while it was helpful for explaining what we were being taught, it also had the effect of making speaking the host country's language not as...important? Knowing that most people spoke English held my practicing of the language back, but in other languages I've taken this has been a common problem. Whereas my actual speaking has never been my strong suit, I am much more confident in reading and writing the langue.

Select all that apply

• Apartment
• Dorm

Select all that apply

• International Students
• Local Students