First day was horrible, but after getting to know the people at the international office and other exchange students, everything was fine! It was very easy to adjust and become used to some different things I was not used to.

How was the month-long, Intensive language course?

The course was really great because it helped to improve my speaking abilities and I met a lot of new people. On Fridays after class we would go on day excursions, and those were a lot of fun! The only bad thing about the course was that we had to go to class Monday-Friday from 9-12.

What was the placement exam like? Did you take it once before and once after the month-long language course?

We had to take the placement exam before the language course. It was mostly a listening test to see how well we understood spoken German. At the end of the course, we had to take a test again, but I think it was only because other exchange students received credit for the course, whereas I did not.

How were your semester classes and teachers?

I took 4 courses with the International Office. The teachers were very nice and helpful. The coursework was extremely easy. I had 2 classes on Monday and 2 on Thursday. On Wednesday and Thursday I would sit in a couple lectures just to listen. I did not receive a grade for the lectures.

What were the other students like?

The other German students were okay. They did not pay much attention to the exchange students. However, the university students who worked for the international office were very friendly and helpful. They were always available for help.

How was your host family?

I stayed in my own dorm/apartment. I had my own bathroom and kitchen, but in some other dorms students had their own room with a community bathroom and kitchen.

How was the food?

The food is Germany is very similar to what we eat in the US.

How was traveling to and from school?

Very easy! With our student IDs we were able to use any type of public transportation for free. Some days I took the bus and then walked a couple blocks to class, or I could take the S-Bahn.

Did you travel?

I traveled almost every weekend once the semester began. I went to Greece, Italy, Austria, and Amsterdam. Also, I visited many cities all over Germany.

how was it traveling around Europe?

Once again it was very easy to travel throughout Europe. The airfare to Greece and Italy was very cheap. We went by train to the other places, and that was also very convenient and cheap.

Did you feel safe?

In the western parts of Germany I felt very safe. I did not feel very safe in Athens or Rome. I would suggest heading back before it gets dark.

Now that you are back, how do you feel you are doing in your ISU language classes?

It is much easier for me to communicate in the language and understand my professor when she speaks.

What did you like about your study abroad? Please feel free to elaborate.

I liked that I was able to meet many other exchange students from all over the world. I also had many opportunities to travel. There was not much school work, so it was an easy semester for me. The people at the International Office were very helpful while we were there. The very best part about the program was the Berlin trip! We were able to see so many things and do a lot during the five days we were there.

What did you not like about your study abroad?

Before going to Bonn, it seemed that the information that ISU gave me was not always correct. The ISU International Office gave me some false instructions and information. I was told I needed a visa before arriving, and I had difficulty obtaining one, so I held off on it. Then, as soon as I arrived in Bonn the International Office people told us that they would get our visas for us, and all they needed was a photo. I would have also like it if I was not in a room with my own kitchen and bathroom because I was often very lonely and was not able to get to know other people.