Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Es lebe Berlin! Past Review

By (MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS., University of Rochester) - abroad from 09/03/2014 to 12/19/2014 with

IES Abroad: Berlin - Study Abroad With IES Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained cultural fluency and the ability to speak another language. The experience was definitely worthwhile and I would recommend the program to anyone that wants to improve their German and spend a semester/year in one of the coolest cities in the world.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The language barrier was difficult, but the course material was not too difficult.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The IES Berlin staff was fantastic. They were helpful and accommodating!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in a small WG (Wohngemeinschaft) with two German students who were great!

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

No issues

* Safety:

I felt very safe almost anywhere/anytime in Berlin!

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)

Berlin was a relatively cheap city to live in which was nice!

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 50 Euros
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Cook at your homestay/apartment rather than going out every day. Street food is also a cheap option!

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

Almost everything was conducted in German.

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? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? German 202 - Introduction to German Studies
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? Get one or several language partners. It helped me tremendously!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
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?
  • Learning German
  • Nightlife
  • Experiencing the culture
* What could be improved?
  • Class schedule
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? My university prepared me well for the experience. Take advantage of any and every opportunity you have while abroad!

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.