Germany: Traveling Through the Trials of Time that Shaped Our World. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The educational experience was preferable for a summer study abroad program. The coursework was structured around relevant topics, both past and present, and was supplemented with group excursions to different locations in and around Berlin. This created a stimulating academic environment, as the coursework itself was being supported with activities outside the classroom. The grading methods are ideal; you are held responsible for the material, but the work is not overwhelming and the grading structure is somewhat flexible. Classes were more discussion based, and exams weren't designed to weed out students. Rather, they were structured to ensure students were learning the essential material.

On-site administration of your program

The program administration was fantastic. They were very accommodating, and were extremely knowledgeable about the area we stayed in. One of the administrators is German, and she is able to address any issue that can possibly come up.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We stayed in a hotel/hostel, and it was a very comfortable place to stay. It was conveniently located, and had a friendly staff that worked diligently to make sure we had everything we needed to foster a productive study abroad environment. All necessities were provided, much like a normal American hotel. There is a community kitchen in the basement and a laundry room, so everyone in the program was more than taken care of.

The hostel provided us breakfast and dinner most days, and although it got a bit repetitive, the food was not an issue. There are many great places to eat within two blocks of the hostel, and if you decide to take the subway to Alexanderplatz (5 minutes away via subway), you can find anything you desire. The food was great, and there were numerous local places that served high quality food for an affordable price.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We went on too many excursions to mention, but some of the most memorable include: Jewish memorial Stasi Political Prison Concentration Camp Jewish Museum All of these were very humbling, eye-opening experiences that were invaluable to our experience in the study abroad trip. Words cannot express how moving some of these excursions were.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Health problems didn't arise, but I have no doubt that if they did, the administrators would take all steps necessary to get the problem taken care of.

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

Like most other ventures, practice is the best way to improve your language skills. The courses encompass language portions that allow you to be exposed to the language that you're surrounded by, and the excursions were phenomenal opportunities to put your preparation to use. While most Germans speak English adequately enough to get by, it is always a good idea to try to speak the host language. You'll find people are much more willing to speak English with you if you've made an effort to initially speak German with them.

Select all that apply

• Hotel
• Hostel

Select all that apply

• Americans

• The excursions were by far the highlights of the trip.
• The staff (teachers, administrators) were wonderful people who made the experience what it was.

• I have no complaints about the trip! Everything was phenomenal.