IES Abroad Berlin – Urban Studies & Social Sciences

Studying abroad on the IES Metropolitan Studies in Berlin was one of the best times in my life. My cohort was the first ones back since the pandemic so many things were different, so please take my review with a grain of salt. However, I had the most fun ever. The group that came was much smaller than a typically year so as a result we all got to know each other quite well. We all lived in the same apartment buildings so we frequently collaborated on meals and gatherings. This worked well for my program as it was nice to live in a community of others from the States and allowed for an easier transition into Germany. We had many planned trips through IES which were a lot of fun and the classes were incredibly interesting as they used the city of Berlin as a case study. Overall can't recommend enough, the staff were incredible as well and so friendly. You will truly be supported on this program if you decide to go.

I had the chance to study in Berlin, Germany through IES Abroad. I was fortunate enough to spend 3 1/2 months in this wonderful country. I was easily able to meet new people and create friendships that will last a lifetime. I was also able to travel to many different countries while being abroad because of how inexpensive it is. While in Berlin, I stayed in a homestay because I figured it would be a nice step into being immersed in the culture. In my homestay, I was able to speak and learn German from my host. Academic wise, I was able to learn significant information about the culture, identity, and history of Germany and Berlin itself. Before arriving, I already knew the language so this was an advantage for me. I was able to continue learning the language by taking a German course at IES. For those who don't speak German, have no fear! The city speaks both German and English so it's accessible for those who don't know the language. IES also offers a beginners course for those wanting to learn. IES also provided field trips to Potsdam, Dresden, and Poland. I got to experience the culture there by eating like a local, visiting the wall, relying on public transportation, and going to a soccer game. This trip truly transformed who I am as a person and I am eager to go back.

Berlin has a contemporary and relaxing atmosphere, but it also has important layers of history. Many of my classes here touched upon history through different lens. For example, in Metropolitan development class, we discussed how different political ideologies in East and West Berlin influenced urban planning and architectural designs. In Recycled City class, we talked about economic challenges after reunification and how neoliberal housing policy led to gentrification. The program here delves into underlying mechanism of how urban space is practiced and its physical manifestations. During my time in Berlin, I also got to meet new people from different cultural backgrounds. I attended dance classes in a contemporary dance studio and met a Korean girl who was studying theater in Sweden. While dining out, I got to learn stories of immigrants from China, Vietnam, and Turkey. Each individual carries his/her own bits of history and every conversation we share becomes a moment of cultural exchange. I really enjoy such moments.