 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
Meet the 2008-2009 DAAD Young Ambassadors! |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Find someone who studied where you want to go, who specializes in your field, or who comes from your home state or college—and ask them whatever you ever wanted to know about study or research in Germany!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Annie Barr |
|
|
|
|
Click on Annie's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of Colorado at Boulder
Major: Communication and Germanic Studies
Program/University in Germany: Completed interdisciplinary Germanic studies major and reached competency in spoken and written German, Universitaet Regensburg
Email: barr [AT] daad.org
I am a senior studying Communication and Germanic Studies at the University of Colorado at Boulder. My education of German culture, lifestyle, and language is marked by the exciting year I spent in Regensburg, Germany. There, I pursued my Germanic Studies major at the Universität Regensburg during the 2006-2007 academic year in one of Germany's most pulsing and attractive Bavarian cities. During my adventurous year abroad I completed a number of academically stimulating courses that expanded my knowledge of the language and its dynamic culture and history, maintained a job translating for a business professor on campus, and had the opportunity to teach and become largely involved with pupils at a local public school. In addition, I created lasting friendships with fellow students, built a deep and meaningful relationship with a family that allowed me insight into German domestic life and offered me support in every way, immersed myself in the community by participating in a local choir, and utilized Germany's central location to travel all over Europe. Being in Germany not only remarkably improved my language and academic skills, but also developed my leadership abilities and positively transformed the way I view cross-cultural interactions and experiences. Whether you are interested in studying, working, or traveling to Germany, this country has profound opportunities to offer every open mind that enters its borders.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Beth Brinkman |
|
|
|
|
Click on Beth's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Major: German Education, English as a Second Language Education
Program/University in Germany: DAAD & Milwaukee-Giessen Exchange
Email: brinkman [AT] daad.org
Hello! My name is Beth Brinkman, and I am currently a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I am studying German Education and English as a Second Language Education. Even though studying abroad in a Germany speaking country was a requirement for my major, I knew that going abroad would immensely improve my German skills in all areas helping me to become a better future German language teacher. My time abroad was one of the greatest experiences of my life! I was able to meet some wonderful people and make lasting international friendships, not only with those in Germany, but from various other countries as well due to Germany’s central location in Europe, as well as its abilities to draw students from over the world because of its high academic standards. I hope that you decide to study abroad in Germany, as the study abroad experience is truly a wonderful enrichment for your life!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jaimie Cavanaugh |
|
|
|
|
Click on Jaimie's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of Michigan
Major: Linguistics, German and Global Change
Program/University in Germany: U Michigan International Program - Freiburg
Email: cavanaugh [AT] daad.org
I am currently a senior studying Linguistics, German and Global Change at the University of Michigan. I never planned to major in German, though I had been taking German classes since 8th grade. I traveled to Germany for three weeks during High School and knew at that point I really wanted to return in the future. I decided to participate in
one of my university's study abroad programs and lived and studied in Freiburg for 12 months. I also completed a three month internship during this time.
Living abroad has been the most challenging and rewarding experience I've had during my undergraduate studies. I enjoyed the challenge of assimilating at a foreign university, gained a much broader understanding of European relations and made friends from all over the world. I would be happy to answer any questions about living in Germany, working in Germany, or going to school in Germany. Please
don't hesitate to email me with questions!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Kendell Clement |
|
|
|
|
Click on Kendell's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: Brigham Young University
Major: Bioinformatics, Computer Science
Program/University in Germany: RISE - Humboldt Uni
Email: clement [AT] daad.org
My backup summer plans involved cutting lawns, taking a few classes, and maybe spending some time at the pool. Luckily, I was chosen to take part in the DAAD RISE program, and my summer turned into a combination of mouse dissections, Humboldt University in Berlin, and the beaches of southern France - which was a lot better than my backup plan.
Through RISE, I was paired with a PhD student in Berlin who was looking for genes linked with obesity in mice. I was given my own project, where I used quantitative trait locus analysis (no, that's not German) to investigate genetically-controlled traits that were related to mouse weight. I learned a lot through my personal research, as well as through interacting with my PhD student adviser and other members of the lab. Most people in the lab could speak English. Also, the weekly journal review meeting was held in English, so an academic internship is perfectly suited for all students, regardless of their German skills. My research experience was fun and rewarding, but I also enjoyed the time I spent out of the lab. I will never forget the rush that accompanies riding a rickety bike down a narrow, cobblestone street, with BMWs, Porsches, and Opels whizzing by within an arm's length. Nor will I forget the feelings of awe as I walked along the remains of the Berlin Wall, or sat in front of the Brandenburg Gate at night. History seemed so close that I could almost reach out and touch it. The strangers I met became my friends, and I began to develop an understanding of the people that wasn't just based on Rammstein and black-and-white war movies. And then, suddenly, it was over. I came home in time to mow a few lawns and spend some lazy afternoons at the pool before school started. But somehow, it isn't the same here. Maybe it's the latitude. At any rate, if your plans are looking dull, I'd recommend a dose of German study or research. It's a sure-fire cure for boredom and will leave you breathless, anticipating your next chance to go back.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lindsay Condit |
|
|
|
|
Click on Lindsay's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: Tulane University
Major: International Relations and German Cultural Studies
Program/University in Germany: Uni Jena
Email: condit [AT] daad.org
I'm Lindsay and I'm a senior at Tulane University of New Orleans majoring in International Relations and German Cultural Studies. During the 2007-2008 academic year, I studied abroad in Jena, Germany and absolutely fell in love with it. Living and studying in Germany provided me with so many opportunities to learn, meet new people, and experience things I had never even considered before. My German improved tremendously, I met people that I will be friends with for the rest of my life, and I got to experience the intricacies of culture present in everyday German life. In addition to that, living in former East Germany gave me a unique perspective to observe Germany in. The German university system also enabled me to become totally independent and worked wonders for my research skills. Germany has changed my life in a wonderful way and I'm excited to help other students have their own amazing experiences in Germany, be it at a university, working, or just learning the language.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Kyla Danard |
|
|
|
|
Click on Kyla's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of Alberta
Major: French, German Language
and Literature
Program/University in Germany: U Alberta-LMU Exchange - Freiburg
Email: danard [AT] daad.org
Hi! My name is Kyla Danard and I am in my final year in French and German Language and Literature at the University of Alberta, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. I spent the
2007-08 academic year at Ludwig-Maximillians-Universität, located in beautiful southern Germany. Next to my studies, I was fortunate to travel to over 11 European countries, as
well as all around Bavaria. During my 10-months in Germany, I worked with the university tutoring English and editing English texts. I also took part in cello lessons, improving my German skills and getting a bit of insight into a rich musical history. I formed strong relationships with many of my fellow students, and with one local family in particular.
Through these relationships, I took part in all sorts of traditional celebrations- wearing a Dirndl and all! The time I spent abroad proved to be invaluable in so many ways: the
relationships I formed, the places I saw, the food I ate, and the personal growth I experienced. I enthusiastically promote all of you to take the leap and start planning your
trip now and would be happy to answer any questions that you may have! PROST!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pietro Devine |
|
|
|
|
Click on Pietro's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: Drexel University
Major: Information Systems
Program/University in Germany: Technische Universitaet Muenchen
Email: devine [AT] daad.org
I am a junior at Drexel University in Philadelphia majoring in Information Systems. German came into my life early during the 8th grade and I continued through high school as well as into college. Having German forefathers I was drawn to the language and studies of Germany, its people and its culture. My first trip to Germany was in Summer 2005 on the DAAD sponsored program "High Tech in Old Munich". There I was able to put my studies to use with the language as well as experience the things which I had, until then, only read about in books and heard in lectures. As a smaller part of my larger plans this trip allowed me to vastly improve my language skills which were invaluable to me upon my return to Germany in 2006 where I spent 1 year in Munich as an exchange student with the further support of the DAAD through their undergraduate scholarship. During this stay I took courses at the Technische Universität München and completed a five month internship at Siemens Business Services GmbH in Munich. I had the wonderful opportunity to travel all around Germany visiting many of the large cities. I also had the chance to fully immerse myself as I stayed with four German students in an apartment in Munich for the year. Germany has so much to offer anyone who is simply willing to go and the time spent will surely change your life. I experienced my first Oktoberfest, bought Lederhosen and absolutely fell in love with Germany during one of the best years of my life! Please contact me if you have any questions or need any ideas about going to Germany, I am more than happy to help in anyway possible!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Eric de Vries |
|
|
|
|
Click on Eric's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: Florida State University
Major: International Affairs, German
Program/University in Germany: DAAD Undergraduate Scholarship - University of Bremen
Email: devries [AT] daad.org
Moin! My name is Eric de Vries and I am currently a senior at Florida State University, pursuing a Dual-Degree in International Relations & German with a Minor in Political Philosophy. From October 2007 till August 2008, I got the chance to take classes at the University of Bremen, while also working on my Honors in the Major research thesis regarding the topic of “European Identity”. I was fortunate enough to receive the prestigious “DAAD Undergraduate Scholarship”. I say fortunate, because financially I would have definitely not been able to get all of this accomplished, while also having such an amazing time in Germany. Since my father is German and my mother American, I’ve always been able to experience “Transatlantic Relations” first-hand, and grew up knowing both cultures. That is at least what I thought. In reality there is always something new you can learn, while you are living or studying abroad and DAAD provides you with the right tools to experience all these possibilities Germany has to offer. Feel free to drop me a line, if you should have any questions!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Janai Gilmore |
|
|
|
|
Click on Janai's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: Wayne State University
Major: Public Affairs, German
Program/University in Germany: DAAD Undergraduate + Junior Year In Munich
Email: gilmore [AT] daad.org
Hello! I’m a senior at Wayne State University majoring in Public Affairs and German. I studied abroad in Germany with my school’s Junior Year in Munich Program during the 2007-2008 academic year. I am still amazed that I accomplished so much in just one year! During my time there I studied at the Ludwig- Maximilian Universität München did an internship for the City of Essen in North Rhine-Westphalia while conducting research for my honors thesis. I met many interesting people, had a chance to travel around Germany and witness its beauty first-hand, visited the opera, world-class theaters and museums at very reasonable prices just for students, and much more. My experience was made even better by the fact that I was also a 2007-2008 DAAD Undergraduate Scholarship holder.
When I think of what a hard time I had adjusting to being away from home during my first few months abroad, it’s hard to imagine that I now consider it to have been one of the best and one of the most defining experiences of my life. Now as a DAAD Young Ambassador, I want to encourage as many people as possible to come to Germany and have an experience at least as amazing as mine.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Andreas Graf |
|
|
|
|
Click on Andreas's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of Kansas
Major: Political Science, German, International Studies
Program/University in Germany: University of Bonn Junior Year Program
Email: graf [AT] daad.org
My name is Andreas Graf and I am a senior at the University of Kansas majoring in Political Science, German, and International Studies. Studying abroad in Germany last year was a dream come true. From the first week of college I had known that I wanted to study in Bonn my junior year and much of what I had done in my first years at the University of Kansas helped to prepare me for the adventure ahead. Nothing, I came to realize however, could truly prepare me for what I was to experience and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. As we all know, Germany is the land of schnitzels, weißwurst, lederhosen, brass-music, and Castle Neuschwanstein, but it is, of course, so much more. From the modern excitement of Berlin, Europe’s most exciting Metropolis, to the depths of Bavaria’s most provincial farming communities, I was able to experience a multifaceted Germany in all of its complexity. There were good times and bad, but when I woke up this summer lying comfortably in my bed back home, I couldn’t wait to get back. I hope you choose to go along for the ride.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lekisha Gunn |
|
|
|
|
Click on Lekisha's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of Alabama
Major: Economics, German
Program/University in Germany: DAAD Undergraduate Scholarship - Mannheim
Email: gunn [AT] daad.org
I am currently a senior majoring in economics and German at the University of Alabama and I had the wonderful opportunity of spending the spring semester of my junior year at the Universität Mannheim in Mannheim, Germany, a city which lies in the Rhein-Neckar region of the country. I am eternally thankful for the support of the DAAD Undergraduate Scholarship, which provided the support for my studies and allowed me the freedom to either sculpt my own study abroad program or choose my university's direct exchange program. Prior to my arrival, I studied German history and culture and decided to become an exchange student in Europe's most populous country. Over the duration of five months, I immersed myself in a different educational system and culture, improved my language skills, and created friendships with students from all over the world. My previous perspective on international affairs was undoubtedly limited; I had never ventured outside of the United States and had absorbed my knowledge from history textbooks. Traveling to beautiful German cities on long train rides through the Black Forest and Bavaria and exploring over a dozen famous European cities, I was able to enrich my knowledge of European history. My experience in Germany allowed me to redefine my academic and career goals and create new personal goals. I plan to study international law in the near future and would love to live and study in Germany once again, if the opportunity presented itself. As I begin my senior year of college, I am confident that I will be able to compete in our increasingly globalized society. I encourage you to consider studying a summer, semester, or even a year in Germany. The multitude of rewards is indescribable!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Evan Hahn |
|
|
|
|
Click on Evan's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: Saint Mary's University
Major: Finance
Program/University in Germany: Uni Konstanz
Email: hahn [AT] daad.org
I am a senior at Saint Mary's University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, in my final year of my commerce degree, majoring in finance. Looking for a career in the world of finance, I realized that educating myself on one the the world's largest financial and economic powers would be of great
benefit to me both personally and professionally. With the expanding globalization of major corporations, multi-lingualism is becoming more important in seeking jobs as well, and immersing myself in the German culture was the best way to learn the language. Educational/career goals aside, Germany was an amazing place to spend half a year. The people I met were incredibly hospitable, the culture, food, and scenery were unbelievable, and I cannot wait to return in the future for both travel and potentially a career!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dennis Heaphy |
|
|
|
|
Click on Dennis's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of Rhode Island
Major: German
Program/University in Germany: U Rhode Island International Engineering Program
Email: heaphy [AT] daad.org
Ever get lost on a storming icy mountain side, in the pitch of night, with eight other people from eight different nations? I hadn’t either until I was on a trip while at the Techniche Universität Braunschweig, where I had studied
for six months in the fall of 2007. In fact, before I left New York I hadn’t believed that Germany was such a focus point for students from all around the world. After one month, having worked in a research lab and attended several
engineering and German classes, I realized why: German universities offer fantastic cutting edge lectures, with many universities located right in the heart of major cities. Immersion in a German city culture, surrounded by
German and other International students, I came away with more new ideas and viewpoints after six months than I could have ever imagined. After my time at TU Braunschweig, I had the opportunity to intern at a company in Lohmar, a
small town 30 minutes outside of Köln, for six months. Working at a German company while living with a German family, I had the opportunity to experience small town German life amidst farms and horse stables. Although this was far from the life I live in NY, the tight wound small-town German culture was something simply astonishing that I will never forget. Some of the adventures I had during this time could never be planned or duplicated. Whether it was training five months with the former EFL and German Champion team the Braunschweig Lions, traveling to over 15 German cities, four other countries, watching the Euro Cup Finale with over 200,000 other screaming fans at an
outside screening in Köln, or simply drinking an ice cold Kölsch, my time in Germany is simply irreplaceable, reaching far beyond any expectations or stereotypes I had leaving the US. I guess what I’m trying to say is GO! The DAAD offers help to any students looking for such an opportunity… so don’t miss out!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sara Howdle |
|
|
|
|
Click on Sara's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of Manitoba
Major: History
Program/University in Germany: DAAD Undergraduate & Canadian Year in Freiburg
Email: howdle [AT] daad.org
Studying in Germany for a year definitely gave me an edge when I came back to my department of History in Manitoba. The experiences I had enabled me to discover a clearer research path that involves both my personal and academic interests. Germany offers a wide range of possibilities for people of various ethnic and academic backgrounds. The cultural sharing and the lively agenda's of German students enable academic and social growth to correlate and expand. The transportation system allows students to learn and travel across Germany and Europe to incorporate a broad sense of study. The open nature of the German students made positive integration into the culture and life in Germany possible. For all those reasons I would like to assist other students realize their potential by studying in Germany, the land of opportunity of the 21st century :)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Alexander Hristov |
|
|
|
|
Click on Alexander's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: Harvard University
Major: Physics, Mathematics
Program/University in Germany: RISE - Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research in Mainz
Email: hristov [AT] daad.org
I am a second year student at Harvard University studying Physics and mathematics. Last summer, I went to Germany for a two-and-a-half-month scientific research opportunity offered by the DAAD's Research Internships in Science and Engineering (RISE). I worked at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research in Mainz. There, I studied the nature of cholera toxicity by using tethered bilayer lipid membrane models of the cell. Prior to my arrival in Germany, I knew absolutely no German. Thankfully, the DAAD helped by offering a two-week intensive language course in Berlin. Though at the end of this course, I certainly was not the caliber of speaker that the other ambassadors are, I did have enough German to ingratiate myself to my landlady, avoid getting lost on a mountain in Salzburg, and run daily errands. I am thankful for the RISE program; it has given me the chance to study abroad at a top-level institution, a chance which, for students in the natural sciences, is very rare but nonetheless crucial. Through the language program and Heidelberg conference, the RISE program allowed me to make lasting and strong friendships with fellow students.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lena Hyatt |
|
|
|
|
Click on Lena's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Major: Biochemistry
Program/University in Germany: RISE- Justus Liebig University, Giessen
Email: hyatt [AT] daad.org
I am a Senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill majoring in Biochemistry. I applied for the DAAD RISE (Research Internships in Science and Engineering) program because I wanted to further my laboratory skills in an international setting. I worked at the Institute for Biochemistry at Justus Liebig University in Giessen, a university town about an hour north of Frankfurt. While in Germany, I studied the mechanisms of Mismatch Repair in E. coli, more specifically at the interactions between two proteins through labeling studies. The working language in the lab was English, but I was also able to enhance my German skills (which I had none to begin!) and I learned many things about German culture and its people. German laboratories provide the perfect opportunity for scientists to increase their international awareness and cooperation, with the labs being led by some of the most brilliant people in science. Any student should not pass up a chance to study in Germany. If you have any questions about studying in Germany or the RISE program, feel free to contact me!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Michael Kern |
|
|
|
|
Click on Michael's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: Carleton College
Major: Political Science, Political Economy
Program/University in Germany: IES Berlin - Humboldt Uni
Email: kern [AT] daad.org
Guten Tag! My name’s Mike Kern, and I’m currently a senior at Carleton College in southern Minnesota studying German and Political Economy. After spending the entirety of my sophomore year studying abroad in Berlin, and then returning to Carleton as the sole German major for my entire class, I’ve got a lot of great perspectives to offer about German
studies in general and also the wealth of experience that one can gain by studying abroad there. I began studying German my freshman year of college. After having suffered through the introductory language sequence, I decided that the only way to really learn the language wasn’t in the classroom, but rather by living and studying in Germany
itself. I studied at the Humboldt University, where I took a number of classes ranging from Goethe’s literary musings to Freud’s Psychoanalysis. Amongst other experiences, my time in Berlin really helped me hone my language skills, and gave me the opportunity to meet a lot of people and make lasting friendships and connections abroad. I was even offered a great opportunity to complete a three-month internship
with a non-profit company – an experience that truly solidified my time spent in the German capital.
I love sharing my experiences, stories, and advice I have about studying abroad – especially with regards to Berlin – and hope that I can be a useful resource for those of you considering going abroad there or to any other part of Germany. Quite frankly, there's way more to Germany
than just beers and bratwurst. It’s a dynamic country that is situated in heart of Europe and is at the forefront of advancement and progress in Europe and the world. Let me help you find out why Germany is such a great place to live, study, and develop your own personal and meaningful experiences.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Helen Kneale |
|
|
|
|
Click on Helen's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: Queen's University
Major: German, Italian
Program/University in Germany: DAAD Undergraduate Scholarship - Freiburg
Email: kneale [AT] daad.org
My name is Helen Kneale and I have just returned from a year abroad studying at the Albert-Ludwigs-Universität in Freiburg, Germany. I am currently a fourth-year student at Queen’s University, majoring in German and Italian with a Certificate in International Studies. My time abroad was absolutely fantastic, and in addition to taking courses, I was able to integrate into German student life and culture through living in a Studentenwohnheim and taking part in different campus clubs such as AEGEE (Association des États généraux des étudiants de l’Europe – European Students’ Forum), acting in a theatre troupe and training at a local dance studio. My coursework over the past two semesters was complemented by many enriching field trips, facilitated by Germany’s central location in Europe, to the European Parliament in Straßburg, the Tiroler Volkskunstmuseum in Innsbruck, and the Stuttgarter Rathaus for the “Europa in Baden-Württemberg” Conference, among other social and academic events. The experience living and working in another country was clearly unforgettable, but why should one pick Germany? From top-notch instruction in the classroom to cutting-edge resources and research opportunities, Germany is steeped in what I would call a culture of intellectual curiosity. It is also a country that knows how to work and play hard. Charming Weihnachtsmärkte, Fastnacht parades and the Fussballfieber of the Euromeisterschaft this year all demonstrate the Lebensfreude of the German people. Their cuisine is hearty and schmackhaft, their architecture awe-inspiring, and the people themselves open and friendly. I would highly recommend studying in Germany to students in all fields who wish to gain international experience and a new global perspective. Viel Erfolg!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jimmy LaPrelle |
|
|
|
|
Click on Jimmy's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of New Mexico
Major: German, Media Arts
Program/University in Germany: Uni Heidelberg
Email: laprelle [AT] daad.org
My name is Jimmy and I am a senior at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, studying German and Media Arts. Last year I studied German at the University of Heidelberg as an exchange student for two semesters. I went to Germany not only to learn the language but also to have an adventure. Studying in Germany was a blast and the experience taught me a lot about self responsibility and how to survive another culture in a different language. It is a bit scary at
first to travel to another country and live there for a while but that is just part of the adventure. At the end of my study abroad year, the German language started coming more naturally, this once foreign place had become home and I knew that the friendships I made there would last a lifetime. If you are thinking about studying in Germany as an exchange student, what I can say to you, is that nothing at that time in my life could have been more worth it.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
David Leib |
|
|
|
|
Click on David's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: Northwestern University
Major: German, Chemistry
Program/University in Germany: DAAD Undergraduate
Scholarship - Uni Tuebingen
Email: leib[AT] daad.org
My name is David Leib, and I’m a senior at Northwestern University, double majoring in chemistry and German. I spent my junior year at Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen. I’d been wanting to travel to Germany for some time, and I saw study abroad as an opportunity to really get to know the country. I found Germany and Germans warm and welcoming. I made some close friends, took some challenging classes, and all in all had a very rewarding year. Also, the credits from my year in Tübingen transfer and contribute to my degree progress at Northwestern. I’m planning on trying to get back to Germany at some point-one year wasn’t enough! Feel free to contact me with any questions about Germany or Tübingen.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Clayton McCleskey |
|
|
|
|
Click on Clayton's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: George Washington University
Major: International Affairs
Program/University in Germany: DAAD Undergraduate + Texas-Wuerzburg Summer Program
Email: mccleskey [AT] daad.org
Servus! I am a senior at The George Washington University, majoring in International Affairs and minoring in German. I spent my junior year studying history and German at the Humboldt University in Berlin as a DAAD Undergraduate Scholar. While in Germany, I also worked as a contributor to the Dallas Morning News covering politics, travel, and cultural topics.
I first went to Germany on an exchange program in the 8th grade, and I fell in love with the culture, the language, and the people. Since then my interest in all things German has continued to grow. Having spent a year in Berlin, a summer in Würzburg, and many vacations throughout Germany, it has now become a second home to me. So, feel free to contact me if you have any questions about studying, working, and living in Germany.
I'm not only happy to help explore the amazing opportunities for you to go to Germany, but I'll also help you figure out how to fund it!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Antonina Sanchez |
|
|
|
|
Click on Antonia's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: Amherst College
Major: Law, Jurisprudence and Social Thought and German Cultural Studies
Program/University in Germany: Amherst - Goettingen Exchange
Email: sanchez [AT] daad.org
I am originally Ecuadorian, but I have lived in Miami, FL since I was ten years old. I attend Amherst College in Amherst, MA, where I first started taking German language and culture classes and I was captivated by both of them. Therefore, I decided to do study abroad in Germany, and I spent last year in the University of Göttingen and I loved it. Being in Germany was even better than I had anticipated, not only did I get to improve my language skills exponentially, but I also got to experience German culture first hand by meeting several extremely welcoming Germans. For instance, I was invited to celebrate Christmas with one of my friends and we sang Christmas carols in German. I would really recommend to people to go to Germany to study abroad because it was my best year in college, because I got to grow not only intellectually but also personally, since German Universities give students a lot of freedom when it comes to making academic decisions. It is also great to study in Germany because even if you don’t know much German, as was my case, you can still integrate into the culture which makes concessions for people who do not speak German.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Terry Si |
|
|
|
|
Click on Terry's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of British Columbia
Major: German, Psychology
Program/University in Germany: Canadian Year in Freiburg
Email: si [AT] daad.org
My name is Terry and I am in my last year of studies at the University of British Columbia, double majoring in German and Psychology. I spent the last year in the university city of Freiburg, a small city on the outskirts of the Black Forest and also the border of France and Switzerland. I must say it was the most unique and exciting year of my life! I was able to improve my German language skills dramatically and also saw almost every country of western Europe, thanks to the ideal geographical location of Germany and of Freiburg! Germany is an amazing country for studying, researching and working, if you are interested in partaking in an exciting journey as I did, feel free to contact and I will do my best to help you make it happen!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Erik Tomsen |
|
|
|
|
Home University: United States Military Academy at West Point
Major: German and Geospatial Information Science
Program/University in Germany: Universitaet der Bundeswehr - Muenchen
Email: tomsen [AT] daad.org
I am a senior majoring in German and Geospatial Information Science at West Point. I spent the 2007 fall semester studying these disciplines at the University of the German Armed Forces in Munich. Going on exchange was a fantastic opportunity and I would highly recommend it to any student considering the prospect. Spending time abroad not only opens many doors but also allows one to think with an enhanced global perspective, which is critical in the world today. Germany is a particularly fascinating destination for foreign students because it is located in the center of Europe, allowing for easy travel throughout the continent. It is a center for both intellectual development (think Goethe, Heisenberg, and Beethoven and the questioning of reason (Karl Marx, Bertolt Brecht, and Gunter Grass). As a student in Germany I felt highly stimulated academically and in all fields. Not only does Germany have a strong classical education focus, the nation is also a leader in high technology. In Munich alone are the headquarters for BMW, Siemens, and Allianz, among other major international companies. In Germany you can feel world history at your fingertips, from the medieval cobblestone streets of Rothenberg to the cold concrete of the Berlin Wall. For instance, the University I studied at had at one time been a Luftwaffe Fliegerhorst, It was ceded to the Americans after the war, and turned over to the Germans in the 1970s. In retrospect I had a wonderful experience studying in Germany and would certainly recommend it to any student wishing to broaden their perspectives.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Justin Waghray |
|
|
|
|
Click on Justin's Photo for a Video
about His Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of Calgary
Major: Geodesy and Geoinformatics
Program/University in Germany: Universitaet Stuttgart
Email: waghray [AT] daad.org
My name is Justin Waghray and I recently returned from a two-semester term in Stuttgart. I spent my time learning the language, taking engineering courses in German, and watching the local soccer team Vfb Stuttgart place first in the Bundesliga. My year abroad was a great opportunity to experience a different system of education and be fully immersed in the language and culture. It was amazing to meet students from around Germany and all across the globe. The location was also ideally suited for travel around Europe - I made trips to Italy, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and also India. At first I was worried that with my limited knowledge in the language, it would be tough getting around. It turned out that that's not the case! I would encourage anyone considering study abroad to take a look at Germany and the opportunities that are available. I will definitely be returning to Germany for internship or further study!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sara Wise |
|
|
|
|
Click on Sara's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Major: German and Public Policy
Program/University in Germany: California State International Program - Uni Tuebingen
Email: wise [AT] daad.org
Hello! My name is Sara and I am a Junior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I am studying German and Public Policy. As a German major, I knew that the only way to really learn the language was to step away from the books and dive into German culture. With that in mind, I decided to spend a semester in Tuebingen, Germany last spring. During my five months abroad, I not only greatly improved my language abilities, but I also made lasting friendships with my German peers. I experienced more adventures, challenges, and excitement during that semester than I ever had in my entire life. I am already planning my next trip to Germany because I just can't wait to go back! I hope that you consider embarking on your own German adventure soon.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ashley Walter |
|
|
|
|
Click on Ashley's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: San Diego State University
Major: Hospitality and Tourism Management
Program/University in Germany: Hotel and Restaurant Foundation Scholarship - International University of Applied Sciences, Bonn, Bad Honnef
Email: walter [AT] daad.org
Hi! I’m Ashley and I am finishing my last year up at San Diego State, majoring in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Last fall I spent an amazing semester in the Western part of Germany in a tiny city called Bad Honnef. I lived along the Rhine and was able to experience the beautiful fall and winter seasons and took part in all of the German festivities during the holidays. I had never been to Europe prior to my trip abroad and picked Germany for its opportunities to study International Hospitality, and to experience something completely different to my everyday life. Going abroad had not only taught me a lot about myself, but sparked my interest in the German language and culture as well as supporting my passion to travel. There was not a strong American population at my school and the tiny town was rich of German culture, inhabiting college students and elder adults. I really stepped out of my shell and immersed myself into one of the best adventures of my life. I became close friends with many of my German classmates, bonded with the 3 other Americans, joined on-campus student organizations, ran along the Rhine, traveled around and took part in cultural traditions. The experience in Germany has enabled me to become independent, a better leader and showed me that I can take on any new situation. I am planning on going back to Germany in the summer to improve my German and upon graduation, will hopefully find work in the Hospitality industry in Europe. I love sharing my experiences from my time in abroad and hope that I can inspire others to take of the advantage of the opportunities Germany has to offer students, graduates teachers, professors and professionals!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rita Wilke |
|
|
|
|
Click on Rita's Photo for a Video
about Her Experience in Germany |
Home University: San Francisco State University
Major: German, Technical Biology
Program/University in Germany: CSU International Program-Stuttgart
Email: wilke [AT] daad.org
Hi, my name is Rita Wilke and I just spent a year studying in and traveling around Germany. I attended the Universität Stuttgart in Stuttgart, Germany. I am currently working on double-majoring in Microbiology and German and San Francisco State University in California. I recommend studying abroad to everyone who wants adventure, independence and a new outlook on the world. While living in Germany I became more self-reliant and independent while making strong friendships with students from all over the world. I also really enjoyed the travel opportunities that come along with living in
the most centrally located country in Europe. From Germany I could (and did) travel to so many different countries. During my year abroad I visited 10 different countries! When I wasn't traveling I was enjoying my beautiful surroundings in Stuttgart. And, in addition to being a culturally enriching experience, Germany offers a great variety of study programs. At first I found studying and attending
classes in German a bit challenging but after I got used to the initial culture shock I really enjoyed listening to my lectures in German. So if you are interested in studying in Germany (or specifically Stuttgart--the auto capital of Germany) and have any questions, just ask! I'm happy to help.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
