Enough German for the rest of my life... but more! Past Review

By (comparative literature, art history, Wellesley College) - abroad from 10/08/2012 to 07/12/2013 with

Wellesley College: Wellesley-in-Berlin

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Living on your own but at the same time knowing that help and support is available anytime. Immersing into a fully-german academic environment.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload is not much at all compared to what I'm used to at Wellesley, however, it is the language aspect that took time for me. I spent a lot of time drafting and revising my papers. Help-resource was abundant through the Middlebury support staff and tutors.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Great support staff and structure! Felt a little stifling at the beginning. However, when problems arise, the staff are really attentive and supportive, emotionally and logistically. This is what I really appreciate about the program: on-call and on-site support.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in an off campus living quarter full of international students. The quarters are not too comfortable, and is far from the city. However, things are convenient, because there are cleaners and it's close to school

* Food:

I cooked myself and food was budget-friendly. Much healthier food available in general than in the US

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Made a couple of close, life-long friends. Interacted with local people only superficially.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I was hospitalized once, and made multiple visits to a doctor as follow-ups. Loved the healthcare system there; good public transport makes it easy to get to places. Doctors are fluent in English to explain the parts that I don't understand in German. Doctors and nurses are friendly and nurturing and attentive. Very satisfied with healthcare system.

* Safety:

In general, a safe city. People are honest.

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)

Food was cheap and events are discounted for students.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? Not sure.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Cook at home, look for student discounts, use Groupon and Daily Deal.

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

We have to pledge to use German and only German in class and outside of class.

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? German 200 level literature course.
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? Yes. Listen to german conversations. Listening definitely is the hardest part.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • International 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?
  • Support staff
  • Freedom in food choices
  • Balanced work-play
* What could be improved?
  • Language preparation
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Prepare more german.

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!