Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

When Abby met Germany August 20, 2025

By (Politics, Brandeis University) - abroad from 05/26/2025 to 07/18/2025 with

IES Abroad: Freiburg Summer - European Union: Politics & Economics

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I

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 classes did a great job of providing context for American students on the European political landscape, while picking up with academic rigor. I would have loved to have multiple sessions of Model EU, as this was the most enjoyable element of the educational experience and gave us hands on experience of dealing with legislation.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Freiburg was enjoyable host city as it was evidently a University city and felt no different from a US college town. The people were friendly and the surrounding area had great activities and you could really find somewhere that suited your interests.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

You had ample space. I was not necessarily close with my roommmates but I still enjoyed my living space. The amenities within the Quad were also great. There was a football turf, basketball, and a lake.

* Food:

I could eat döner everyday if I could. While I did not eat at the Mensa, finding food was not difficult, especially with the many affordable grocery stores.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I travelled often so I only really experienced local culture during the week. This was not difficult especially as the people were very kind and was often included us in events.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

N/A

* Safety:

I did not experience any out of ordinary. If there was any small incidents, bystanders and other students intervened immediately.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I really enjoyed all that Freiburg had to offer. The classes were comprehensive but there was enough freedom to enjoy the city. Classes in the morning, followed by a sweet treat or döner in the afternoon, quick swim in the evening and catching up with friends in the night. The program specific trips were a perfect way to immerse yourself into the political culture and social elements of each city. While the meetings were a bit extensive at times, there were learning opportunities at every corner. If you want to see a small snippet of my experience check out my study abroad Instagram: @abbyingermany

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)

Maintaining the budget within Freiburg was not difficult but as we travelled on program specific trips, especially to Paris and Stockholm it was incredibly difficult to stick to the budget.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $80
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? N/A

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* 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?
  • Travelling
  • IES Community
  • The Food
* What could be improved?
  • The talks
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Get comfortable with being uncomfortable! Growth happens in these moments and it is not until you fully accept these moments that you will enjoy studying 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 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!