Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Freiburg, Germany became so much more than a place to study: It became my home! Past Review

By (Communication & Culture/ Theatre & Drama, Indiana University - Bloomington) for

IES Abroad: Freiburg - Environmental Studies & Sustainability

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes! I learned so much about myself and took away a new respect for foreigners who choose to study in the States. I also was able to connect with my German roots on a new level that I didn't think was possible. It also significantly changed my academic plans so that now I am pursuing a German minor and definitely want to continue my study of the German language and culture.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I really enjoyed the system overseas because it put more weight on the individual student. I had to give oral presentations in every single class which was very stressful but it also forced me to learn the language and it enriched my experience while boosting my confidence at the same time.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I loved absolutely everything about my program. Two weeks after my program started, I wished that I had signed up to stay for the full year because I had fallen so in love with everything about it from my professors to the people I was studying with to the actual town of Freiburg. I think about my time in Freiburg on a daily basis and wish I could relive my experience there.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

I LOVED the food! Future students must definitely try a Döner Kebab-- Euphrat has the best! Gelato and Cappuccinos make everything better as well. The Münster Market has great sausages and produce that you can get for cheap! The Mensa is incredibly cheap but also not too tasty... you get what you pay for. I would recommend cooking with your roommates and friends! It is cheap and helps you get to know everyone!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Thanksgiving was so special and lovely! They had no idea what to do for it because no Germans celebrate Thanksgiving but they really did their best to make us feel like we were at home. They had a delicious dinner for us and we were able to mingle with all of our professors which was really great because I became close friends with many of my professors.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

My city was VERY safe. I walked home by myself on multiple occasions and never once felt threatened.

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? 4 semesters of German, G250.
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Language acquisition improvement?

I tried to speak as little English as possible when I was in my flat with my roommates. Luckily, only one of my roommates could speak English so I was forced to communicate with the other ones in German which was a hidden blessing.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The teachers and location.
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? An outgoing student willing to put themselves out there!!! You can't be afraid of making a fool of yourself. Speaking a different language is challenging and terrifying but you have to jump in head first and go for it! You will never regret making new friends and putting yourself in an unfamiliar environment. You only live once!