IES Abroad Berlin – Security Studies & International Affairs

I had an incredible time studying abroad in Germany, and I have the utmost regard for IES's Berlin Center. I felt so welcomed from day one, and the bond I developed with others in the program has warmed my heart. My classes around European affairs and international politics were always intriguing, and I got to understand Berlin's history better through them. Understanding the immense transformation the city has undergone since the 20th century was a humbling and eye-opening experience, especially as an American. We went on excursions to Potsdam, Hamburg and Dresden, and I spent fall break in Munich! The neighborhoods our student apartments and study center are in were very enjoyable and safe, and public transportation was always accessible. I had many opportunities inside and outside of class to understand the plethora of cultures represented in Berlin as well as interact with people from all over the world. This experience was enriching for my studies in International Affairs, and I got to advance my language skills with bi-weekly formal instruction and everyday interactions. The application process was straightforward and I felt adequately prepared by IES in the lead-up to our arrival. I gained much personal growth over these 3 1/2 months, from adapting to a different cultural context and navigating in a new geography to embracing persistence and engaging in public diplomacy. Even in a pandemic, I wouldn't change a single aspect of this experience.

I studied abroad in Berlin, Germany the Spring Semester of 2017. I had an amazing time. IES Abroad really did a great job of integrating me into the city. We learned about the culture of the city through a comprehensive orientation. The program introduced us to Berlin locals, further integrating us into the city. As a student I got to partake in European Union panels, an experience I would have otherwise not had without IES. The classes weren't that difficult, but furthered our appreciation of the city with many field trips. I found my own living situation, but most seemed to enjoy their living situation.