Real classes with natives, but full support when needed Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Middlebury provided great support in the form of individual meetings and one-on-one writing workshops to help us exceed in our courses with native German students at the University of Potsdam.

On-site administration of your program

Professional staff from the top to the bottom, however, if I had to complain, the staff were a little too controlling at times in one way or another. I would have liked a little more freedom and did not necessarily need all of the hand-holding and strict rules, but I am sure others needed the structure they provided.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

There is an option to live in student housing in Potsdam, however, I chose to live in an apartment I found myself in Berlin. If possible, I definitely recommend living in Berlin.

Middlebury does not provide the food, so you are on your own. That having been said, the Greater Berlin area has many delicious restaurants and inexpensive supermarkets.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Unlike maybe study abroad programs, we were enrolled in normal classes at normal universities with normal students. I saw this as a major plus, not only for the language immersion, but also the social connections.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I fortunately didn't need to take advantage of the German health care system while abroad, so I cannot complain about my health and the health care I received while abroad.

Berlin is an absolutely amazing city. I like to say it's perfectly imperfect. Of course there are some parts of the city that are a little rough, but that's part of its charm. After a month in the city, you'll be well aware which areas have a reputation for being a little rougher than others and perhaps choose to avoid them. That having been said, some of the rougher areas are my favorite areas of the city and I encourage you to simply enjoy responsibly!

Middlebury is known for their language programs and it's clear why. Immersion and support = success!

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

Berlin is not a very expensive city, but there are many opportunities to spend money unnecessarily. If you don't go out too often, money shouldn't be too much of an issue.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

It is absolutely required to ONLY speak German on this program. All students are required to sign a Language Pledge before embarking.

Select all that apply

• Apartment

Select all that apply

• N/A

Select all that apply

• Local Students

• Classes with natives
• Great professors
• Opportunity to live in Berlin

• Less focus on teaching us about cultural differences
• Better housing options provided
• Greater awareness by professors of program

The Nearly Native or Trail Blazer