Germany: A Hub for Intercultural Exchanges Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was feasible. The teachers were friendly and helpful. They always taught the students material that they could apply to situations outside the classroom. This program heavily emphasized hands on experiences. Definitely, a program that makes students come up with their own conclusions through their own personal observations.

On-site administration of your program

The Program Administration for the Metropolitan Studies Program in Berlin was amazing! One of a kind. Every time I had a question or concern, they were more than willing to sit down with me and answer it. They helped me with my medical concerns, they scheduled doctor appointments for me. They provided me with important information about the courses I was taking. They made every effort to make sure that my experience in Berlin was incredible and unforgettable! They surely did a great Job! I want to go back!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My housing situation could not have been better! My German host treated me like her son. She took me out to restaurants, movies, and family gatherings. Often, we went on walks together to the park, the center and nearby attractions. Also, we ate dinner together and talked about politics, religion, the US, Germany and Turkey. My host definitely made my experience abroad worth while. IES did a great job when it came to pairing students with hosts.

Unfortunately, food was not included in my program. So, I often had to cook for myself or eat out. However, Berlin is very international and there are so many good restaurants to eat at. Here are my two favorite restaurants in Berlin: 1) Osteria Centrale (Charlottenburg) [Italian] 2) Kuchi (Charlottenburg) [Japanese]

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

In my program, we went to St. Petersburg, Russia and Paris, France, each trip was a week long. In Russia, we saw the hermitage, Catherine the Great's Palaces, and the University of St. Petersburg. We toured one of Russia's most famous Beer factories. Also, We were given the opportunity to see a Russian Opera called Igor! In Paris, we went to the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc of Triumph, the Latin Quarter and Sacred Heart. In addition, we ate so many delicious Pastries! Both cities were amazing to explore!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Berlin is a very safe city. I walked around at night without worrying about getting robbed or kidnapped. It was definitely one of the few cities in Europe, where I felt comfortable and secured.

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

I practiced my German with locals and with some professors at the IES center. Overall, I was able to get by in Berlin with English, as most Germans spoke English. However, I always made the effort to understand the people around me by speaking in their native language.

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• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family