Past Review
By Bistra S (Economics And International Relations, Tufts University) for
Tufts Programs Abroad: Tufts in Tübingen
Yes, my experience was worthwhile. In addition to a foreign language, I learned a lot about the European culture as a global concept, since I had the chance to travel a lot throughout Western and Central Europe. I had interesting classes, very good dance ensemble. I saw many theaters and concerts, made many international friends, saw places. I recommend it to everyone interested, I would myself do it again if I could.
Personal Information
| The term and year this program took place: | Full-Year 2008 |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The education system is very different from the one in the US. It gives more flexibility during the semester but a greater work load at the end of the semester. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Strengths: very well organized, very flexible Weaknesses: maybe the structure of the pre-departure meetings could be changed so that it incorporates more question-and-answer sessions rather than lectures on various aspects |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived alone in a huge room right in the heart of Tuebingen. I was very happy to live there. <br /><br /> Housing was excellent. |
| * Food: |
The dining halls are very cheap, but also completely tasteless. However, the German cuisine is amazing! Restaurants are very clean and affordable with the stipend from Tufts. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The program encouraged us to visit concerts, movies, plays, etc. It also provided various cultural trips around Germany! |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Tuebingen is a very safe place. It is even safe to walk alone at night anywhere in the town. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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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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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | about 120 euros |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | One can live for about 500 euros/month for rent and other expenses. However, this amount is not enough for cultural activities, eating out or travel. That's why Tufts allows a more general stipend which also allows to explore the cultural life in the country. |
Language
| Language acquisition improvement? |
Everybody in Germany speaks English and is curious and proud to speak in English with you. However, there are wonderful programs that encourage language exchange and learning German. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you take classes with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Go to Zimmertheater and to Kino Arsenal and Arena. Ute will tell you everything else. |
