Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

I spoke more English in Germany than here! Past Review

By (Valparaiso University) for

Valparaiso University: Reutlingen - Hochschule Reutlingen

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes. i can speak the language better and I have friends all around the world.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I was very happy with the Brixners, Herr Veit, and Herr Springer as professors. I valued and respected them. The international students at the school as well were very nice and fun.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The director in Reutlingen needs to be patient and more willing to work with students that have never been out of America. The key is to be helpful, the director is the only tangible link they can fall back on in this country.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing was fine, everything was provided. The area is good, close to stores. The students are nice, but you need to approach them to get to know them.

* Food:

It's alright because Germany has peanut butter.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Germany, especially in smaller towns, is an extremely safe place to be.

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

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
Language acquisition improvement?

We had german class, but i also had a very good German friend I conversed with.

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? BEFRIEND THE INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS. They will become your lifeline because your university students will get on your nerves.