Germany

Willkommen in Deutschland. Vitamé Vas.

Group in Germany.

Germany has become central to efforts to create enduring peace and prosperity in Europe. A beautiful and historic nation, Germany has made lasting contributions to the fields of science, literature, music, architecture, and the visual arts. Today, home to the largest immigrant population in Europe, this melting pot of different races, ethnicities, and nationalities pulses with a dynamic creative energy.

Orientation in Berlin

German buildings

Berlin is the geographic heart of unified Europe. A gateway between East and West, it boasts a fascinating history and a vibrant cultural scene. Spend your days engaged in German language classes while you explore some of Berlin's most famous sites.

Sample activities: Explore the Brandenburg Gate in the center of reunified Berlin; learn how life has changed since the fall of the Berlin Wall as you visit Checkpoint Charlie; use your German language skills in markets, cafés, and museums.

Homestay in the West

German country

Travel by bus and train through quaint villages and soft rolling hills on the way to an enchanting community in the north of Germany. You quickly become accustomed to the relaxed pace of daily life as a member of a German family. You are warmly embraced and encouraged to use your German language skills, learn how to cook traditional cuisine, and explore surrounding towns and villages.

Community Service in the East

Participants in the grass

You and your group journey east to learn more about the rich culture of former East Germany. Meet up with local students for soccer games, hikes through the countryside, and traditional meals. During your stay, work side by side with local community members on a meaningful service project.

Travel and Exploration and the Czech Republic

Rafting

 

Following your adventure in Germany, voyage into the Czech Republic for an unforgettable stay in Prague and Moravia in the eastern part of the country. An important European capital for centuries, Prague is a stunning combination of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architecture. Around every corner, you find artists, poets, musicians, and street performers.

The Czech Republic's beauty and indomitable spirit will take your breath away.

Sample activities: Take long walks through the narrow, winding cobblestone streets of Prague’s Staré Mesto—the old town; stroll across the world-famous Charles Bridge; spend the afternoon with a group of young Czechs in the shadow of Prague's fairy-tale castle; raft down rivers and hike mountain trails through picturesque villages.

 

I learned more about German life, language, history, and culture in those 12 days than I have in the past three years of high school. I learned that a language 'barrier' is not really a barrier at all, and that it can actually make a discussion more interesting, slightly more confusing, and sometimes utterly hilarious. But most importantly, I learned that halfway around the world, in a community of only 600 people, I have found a second family who love me and can't wait until I can come back 'home' for another visit.

--Amanda Pettengill, Brattleboro, Vermont

Code: GESD (4 Weeks)
Features: Community Service, Travel
Prerequisites: None
Depart/Return: New York
Dates: July 1 - August 1
Fee: $6,000

Apply Now

Features
Community Service, Travel

Dates
July 1 - August 1

Depart/Return
New York

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