Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

My Uni-Mannheim Perspective Past Review

By (University of Maine - Orono) - abroad from 08/28/2018 to 12/23/2017 with

University of Mannheim: Mannheim - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot of cultural things, and I also learned somethings about myself. I gained a network of business contacts and friends that I will continue to stay in touch with over the years.

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.

At the Uni-Mannheim you will experience a rather intense workload, but if managed properly you'll do fine. You'll have one large test at the end of the semester, don't wait until that time draws near to start preparing for it.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The on-site administration that's available to you is quite accommodating. They will answer general questions, or if they can't answer them they will inform you of who can.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The student housing in Mannheim is amazing. I got really lucky and reserved a single flat for myself before arriving. The landlord (hausmeisters) are available and happy to assist you if there is ever any problems. Constant events all over town make Mannheim an eventful and fun stay.

* Food:

The food in Germany was amazing. In Mannheim you have a plethora of options to choose from, and unfortunately there is too many places I would recommend you to check out.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't personally have any health related issues there, but the Uni is concerned about insurance and as a student you must obtain this. There is a local company on campus that will try to offer there's, but I think it's better to purchase one that meets the requirements before hand.

* Safety:

The city is wonderful, and I didn't experience any situations where I felt unsafe. However, as a tourist in a different country always remember to stay alert.

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

The program was lot's of fun, and the city of Mannheim was even more so.

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)

Everyone lives life in different ways, and I find it's best to live within your means. Germany is a place where you can do just that.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? I personally spent about 150 euros a week.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Shop smart. Buy in bulk. Spend it wisely.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? I hadn't taken this language before.
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Duolingo is an application you can download, and once you get there I recommend joining an intensive language course.

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Exchange

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • N/A
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • The city of Mannheim
  • The location of Germany in Europe
  • The local events throughout the city
* What could be improved?
  • Less Power Point Slides
  • A Mid Term
  • Assignments throughout the semester
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew how important it is to study the power point slides religiously. The last and, typically the only test of the semester is what will decide the grade you receive at the university.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.