High School Language Immersion Programs in Germany

My experience with MEI was life changing. I cannot recommend them enough. The teachers are some of the best I have encountered throughout high school and university. Every destination and experience enhances the curriculum, creating an education experience like no other.

Making the decision to attend MEI Academy is hands down one of the best decisions I have made. I attended the 2018 Adventure Down Under summer session and I loved it so much I signed up for the 2019 Kingdoms and Empires group for my second semester of grade 12. During these trips I learned a lot about myself and became more independent. The other students I met on these trips are still some of my best friends and I will always cherish the times we spent together. On top of this, the teachers educate you on much more than just academics. They help you reach outside of your comfort zone and support you as you learn more about yourself and the world around you. MEI Academy immensely helped me grow as an individual and prepared me to live away from home for University. I would take this opportunity again in a heartbeat!

During grade 11, I decided to go to Asia for my spring semester with MEI and transitioned to Europe in the fall of grade 12. This ‘reverse’ big year approach set me apart from my peers, yet I found myself enjoying it just as much. I chose to apply for MEI because I was looking for deeper knowledge than what was available at my local public schools. I went into it pretty blindly, not knowing anyone, as most of the students do. My high school experience has been anything but ordinary, as I have attended four different high schools, including MEI Academy. It was during the two MEI programs, where I discovered an incomparable educational experience. The teacher’s high expectations fueled my growth as a student, thinker, and peer. Coming from an online school, I initially lacked certain public speaking skills and certain social abilities. However, the immersive and supportive environment at MEI sparked my personal transformation. I came out of my programs, not only as a more articulate individual but also as someone who can easily speak for myself and confidently form friendships with people who I might not have connected with otherwise. One aspect of the program that particularly resonates with me to this day was the structured routine of our days, which was nothing like my life at home. Waking up each day surrounded by individuals who were equally as eager to embrace the new experiences was a breath of fresh air. From daily morning workouts in constantly changing locations to reflective writing and collaborative projects, I truly would not have found this anywhere else. Unlike a conventional school setting where teacher interaction is limited to the class period, with MEI I had constant engagement with both educators and students, creating meaningful relationships that extended far beyond the classroom. Not only did my relationships extend beyond the classroom, but so did my education. MEI stands out as a transformative educational experience. Something I had never experienced in a traditional classroom, but had the opportunity to learn on my MEI program was the blend of courses with real-world application. The academic skills –from public speaking to essay writing– that were taught during my time with MEI, I continue to actively apply to all of my courses at home. These are valuable skills that will continue to allow me to prosper as I begin post-secondary education. For those who want to broaden their horizons and grow as an individual and as a student, MEI Academy is the perfect place to do that. I wholeheartedly recommend these programs for anyone who is considering it. I would not be the same without this experience.

I departed on MEI's big year in 2013/2014. Ten years later it is still a core memory and an essential aspect of my education. I continue to employ the values, experiences, and educational techniques gained during my experience in both day-to-day life, as well as professionally. I am forever grateful for my experience with MEI International Academy.

In 2019 I went to western Europe with MEI Academy and had the most amazing experience in my life! The teachers on MEI are the most caring, supportive and hands on teachers I’ve ever had. They are very invested in getting to know each individual student to insure the get the most out of their education and experience abroad. I highly recommend traveling with MEI for the most rewarding and fun experience you’ll have.

Our family sent two of our daughters with MEI Academy. One completed the International Business summer program and we were so impressed that our other daughter completed her entire Grade 12 year with MEI. The experience was outstanding! Their English and communication skills, understanding and interest of world issues, politics, human rights, history and geography all emerged from their lessons They were taught by extraordinary teachers with real passion for their subjects plus a nurturing personal style while the students were on the road. They were inspired and energized with daily exercise and learning in such unique and wonderful locations It was an exciting time for us as parents as well, as the school takes excellent care to publish photos and blogs along with carefully detailing the homework and projects the students were working on. We were able to follow along with every step of the journey. The girls have gone on to complete excellent University degrees and have found meaningful work in their lives I can't express how important this decision was for our family and how life-changing the programs were. I would highly recommend MEI Academy to anyone thinking about a travel abroad program for their students.

I loved visiting Germany so much that I wish to visit again when I am older. I had a lot of fun embracing the new culture and participating with students my age. The best part of the whole trip was trying new food and seeing how different each fast food shop was from those in the U.S.

An amazing journey and a life-changing adventure. My son recently returned from your Fall Europe trip and he loved it and learned so much; he is so glad that he went and I loved following along with the photos posted by the teachers. The places that he saw and learned about were incredible, and the teachers excellent. I can't say enough great things about the experience from start to finish. Thank you for making these programs happen through excellent organization, extensive knowledge of your destinations, and dedication to guiding young people to grow, reflect and become independent.

In 2018 I joined many other students on the most amazing 'school trip' ever! During the Fall Semester with MEI, I travelled to Southeast Asia and Australia and I am beyond grateful for the knowledge and lifetime friendships I gained on this journey. Every day was a new adventure and the lessons we would learn were that much more engaging because we were surrounded by the history of that days' topic. Now, almost three years later, I am still in touch with many of the friends I made on that trip and we have shared so many memories since. I would recommend this trip to all students as it is a 'once in a lifetime' kind of experience that I would not trade for the world.

I learned so much during my year abroad in Germany. I had a great host family and experience in Berlin. I made so many international friends and connections in Germany. It is an eye-opening experience that I believe everyone should partake in.

I went abroad during my junior year of high school and had the time of my life! I was matched perfectly with my host family, and really enjoyed the city that I lived in. AFS was really great in matching me with a family that best supported my needs, and matched my personality best. I became fluent in the language and made several friends that I still talk to now, even after being back in my home country for over 6 months. I think this is such a unique study abroad experience because you see how Germans live their daily lives, and you become one of them. Although I had doubts and was scared at first, I wouldn't trade my experience for anything. If you are wondering about doing this program, I would 100% recommend you to!

I was a CBYX student with AFS. The volunteers made my arrival in Germany so easy and were always willing to help. I grew so much over the year, I’m very grateful for the experience. The friends and family I made during my exchange year are so important to me.

My daughter stayed with a host family outside of Barcelona. With the help of Oui-Connect, the experience was easy to arrange and we felt comfortable with the host family and with the program. She had so much fun. The family had two girls her age who shared similar interests as my daughter. They explored many places including the southern mountain town of Estavar in France, the Spanish beach town of Pineda de Mar, Montblanc and, of course, spent a lot of time exploring Barcelona. They took her to Tibidabo amusement park and to see a divised opera at a university in Barcelona. She had so much fun spending time with the family and learning about their culture. Her spanish improved greatly and, I'm sure she will visit the family again. We had ZERO issues and would absolutely recommend Oui-Connect.

Our daughter, Sammy, spent 3 weeks in Spain with an incredible host family who took her in as one of their own. She had a marvelous time delving into Catalan culture and the Spanish language, enjoying weekend excursions, extended family gatherings, as well as ordinary daily activities such as shopping and cooking. This was Sammy’s first trip anywhere by herself; she came home so much more confident, open and really appreciative of this opportunity and new friendships. Muchas gracias to the team at Oui-Connect for working with us to provide the best experience for Sammy!

My daughter stayed with a host family outside of Barcelona. With the help of Oui-Connect, the experience was easy to arrange and we felt comfortable with the host family and with the program. She had so much fun. The family had two girls her age who shared similar interests as my daughter. They explored many places including the southern mountain town of Estavar in France, the Spanish beach town of Pineda de Mar, Montblanc and, of course, spent a lot of time exploring Barcelona. They took her to Tibidabo amusement park and to see a divised opera at a university in Barcelona. She had so much fun spending time with the family and learning about their culture. Her spanish improved greatly and, I'm sure she will visit the family again. We had ZERO issues and would absolutely recommend Oui-Connect. Jill

I was in AFS Germany, from 2011-2012. There were lots of social activities to do, the coordinators seemed to care about us, and we felt really safe. However, I wish counseling was an option with AFS at the time, to deal with the emotions one has during their stay in another country, and that they took mental health more seriously. I was being bullied in my host family and asked multiple times to be moved to another family, but nothing came of it other than telling my host family what I said, which made everything worse. Other than the host family issue, the school and program do take care of you, and ensure your safety.

Hi! I had the best year of my life in Germany. I hope to experience another immersion program in the near future. At first, I was very nervous before leaving my country but then I felt better. My family was very supportive and they always been there for me. My host family was very cool as well. They helped me a lot when I didn't understand my homework. Now we’re really close friends with my host brother even if he supports a different football team. At the beginning of my stay, I was shy, but once I become more confident with family and classmates, I started talking a lot more. So, I can say that my german improved a lot. At least, I understand better German rap songs than before! The teachers were very patient and always made me feel comfortable at school. I tried my best to get good grades. Even if I had to study a lot at school, I also had time to go out with my friends as well. This experience has given me so much to take home that I don't know how to describe it. I never thought I could have studied abroad. But I could. I feel very lucky. Germany is amazing!

This year I was able to do my first semester of 10th Grade in Germany. When the end of the program arrived. I was very sad to go back to my country because in Germany I really had a great time. I met many new friends that I hope to see them again very soon. I learned many new things. My host family was very good to me. They were very supportive when sometimes I didn't understand my school homework very well. I learned new phrases in German and I understood better the grammar stuff that I had always found hard to understand. I really recommend this High school exchange in Germany program with Nacel. I will try to come back the next year, but for a whole year.

On my exchange I definitely learned a lot of French in addition to learning more about French culture. However, one of the most important things I gained from my AFS experience was a better understanding of myself, which is something I didn't expect. I became a lot more independent and self-sufficient as well as making tons of amazing friends from all over the world. My AFS region in France was just an amazing support system for me. I made so many friends, and I don't think I could have made it through my time without both the other hosted kids as well as our returnee contacts.

Prepare to be educated while going on an adventure. As I traveled across Germany, I learned many helpful things and made friends that will last a lifetime. The trip is amazing and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a great and meaningful summer.