IES Abroad Freiburg

Pros: The IES EU program in Freiburg gave me an experience that had an impact on my future plans. I loved the many days we spent traveling around Europe and meeting with high level officials of EU members states and the EU itself. The staff members did an amazing job handling the travel logistics of more than 60 people. It was nearly stress free for me. Our meeting with high level officials were efficient and worth our time in most cases.

My dorm was comfortable. My dorm-mates were very tolerant, inviting and easy to get along with. They influenced my philosophy in life. They made want to enjoy life while seeking to reach full potential. My professors were easy going and very approachable.

Cons: The library inside the IES building was too small especially because Freiburg University library was in construction at the time and the temporary library was a 15 minute train ride. Plus, it was limited hours for non-University student.

The academic challenges of the program were not up to the same standard as my home school, but I am glad it was not. If it was, it would have made the traveling aspect of the program very difficult. Professor could have been more aggressive in asking tough questions and challenging how we go about thinking through the class material.

Living and studying abroad in Freiburg was everything I dreamed it would be and more. I know that sounds cheesy, but in all honesty, there were times that I just didn't feel like what I was doing was real life because it was simply so amazing.

The program through IES was the perfect way to balance independence in a different country while simultaneously knowing that any problems or questions you have, there is someone there who can and will help you out. The staff at IES really works to make your experience the best it can be, and as a student of the German language, this included not only language immersion but also cultural immersion, which are two hugely important factors when considering going abroad.

For classes, IES offers a wide selection of topics but also gives students the opportunity to enroll at the university, which is an incredible opportunity, as this university is one of the best in Germany. If you decide to only enroll in IES courses, however, you are not missing out on much because these classes are taught by some of the most wonderful professors. They aren't just there to teach you about some topic; they're there to inspire you and help you. It's so obvious that they do what they do because they love it. In addition, with a destination like Freiburg, the overall group is somewhat smaller than in a major city, which is beneficial for academics because class sizes remain small and intimate.

The living situation varies per person; however, there is a general layout. IES divides students into neighborhood groups, so a handful of IES students will live in the same complex. There are usually various areas around Freiburg where students are placed, but everything is easily reachable. Within these complexes, there are different buildings where German and other international students live. IES has reserved rooms for their students, and you may end up living with anywhere from one to five or more flatmates of various nationalities. Your flatmates will become really useful resources for figuring out Freiburg! Also you will always have your own room but will have common bathrooms and a kitchen.

Freiburg itself is a great place to be. There is always something to do in the city, but I never felt overwhelmed. And if you're more of an outdoorsy person, then Freiburg is also perfect because it's in the Schwarzwald region, which provides plenty of hiking opportunities.

So much to say.
1. Academics: All about the EU, one German class (plus more if you want), similar to high school: small assignments for every class, plus quizzes, tests, presentations. Not too time-consuming though, plenty of time for fun. Not supposed to miss more than two classes or else your grade goes down.
2. Housing: Lived with German roommates in a really nice suite. Lovely city, walkable and also a tram. Grocery store was a 5 minute walk away.
3. Immersion: Not the best program if you want to immerse yourself in German culture. Most time spent with classmates in same program. All classes together, in one building. On the upside, it results in a pretty tight-knit group and is a lot of fun.
4. A lot of time is spent traveling. ~10 day field study trips all over Europe, transportation and lodging included in cost of program, amazing way to travel with your whole group and see different cities, but be warned there are mandatory presentations and lectures during these trips, which doesn't leave a lot of time for thorough sightseeing. Also fun day trips at extra cost, like sledding in the Swiss Alps. Definitely go on that trip, so fun. Finally, weekends and spring break to travel on your own. Take advantage, traveling was one of the best parts of this program!
5. Internship: I did the EP internship in Brussels for one month. Amazing experience to live there and go to work at the European Parliament everyday. Downside: work is what you make of it, some offices you get assigned to will not be as encouraging in giving you meaningful assignments. Also costs a lot of extra money.

Top Reasons to do this program:
-Lots of travel around Europe
-Freiburg is a beautiful university city surrounded by the Black Forest, small enough to be comfortable and not intimidating, big enough to offer nightlife, restaurants, festivals, history, etc.
-Format of program allows you to learn a lot about the EU, also make good friends with everyone else on the program. Staff are great, very helpful

I had an amazing experience in Freiburg. It's such a great university city and there is always something to do. IES staff were very helpful and I couldn't have asked for a better study abroad experience.