Study Abroad Berlin Past Review
By Cara H (International Relations and Affairs., University of Hartford) for
IES Abroad: Berlin - Study Abroad With IES Abroad
It was without a doubt worthwhile, in fact I will be studying abroad again with IES this fall *2011*
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 6 months+ |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I have no complaints about any of the administration at IES Berlin. They were extremely knowledgeable and did everything to help us feel welcome, acclimated, and comfortable. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived in an apartment by myself by my own arrangement with friends of friends. |
| * Food: |
I did not personally have any dietary restrictions but I do know that the program definitely did their best to accommodate everyone. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The trips to Paris and St. Petersberg were absolutely fantastic!! |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Safety in Berlin is almost a non-issue. Of course, in any city it is important to be aware and not wear flashy things. In Berlin I never felt unsafe no matter where I was or no matter the time. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Think ahead about what you purchase at home and decide what you can and cannot live without and from there plan your budget. Trial and error really. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| Language acquisition improvement? |
Most everyone spoke English in Germany; however, I did my best to practice at stores, restaurants, or in asking for directions. Usually, if you speak in German they will try to speak back you the same. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Put yourself out there and try it! |
