Spending my semester abroad at California State University East Bay was the best decision of my life and I had an unforgettable time.

The support from MicroEDU was great throughout and so the time required to organize the stay abroad was less than expected. But in addition to visa application, international health insurance, applying for an international driver’s license, information about accommodation options, etc., one should not underestimate the course selection for the upcoming quarter / semester and plan enough time for it. Because in my case (as at most American universities) the so-called “class crashing” applies to all international students. Since all American students register for the courses beforehand, it can of course happen that many courses are already overcrowded and no longer accessible to international students. As many courses as possible must / should be attended in the first two university weeks in order to have a few alternatives in view. However, there is often more panic beforehand than is ultimately the case … Of course, it is stressful at first, but I also got all the courses I wanted in the marketing area, which is always well attended. Because even the Americans can change their courses in the first two weeks and thus places become free again. In addition, most professors are very open to foreign students and appreciate their presence in the course. Because even the Americans can change their courses in the first two weeks and thus places become free again. In addition, most professors are very open to foreign students and appreciate their presence in the course. Because even the Americans can change their courses in the first two weeks and thus places become free again. In addition, most professors are very open to foreign students and appreciate their presence in the course.

I was very satisfied with my courses in Marketing Research, Corporate Communications and Integrated Marketing Management. The courses are designed to be extremely interactive and there is a lot of discussion, which is quite a big difference to studying in Germany. The practical relevance is very high and so the course content is mostly processed in case studies, projects, reports, group work and presentations in addition to the theoretical input. It is true that the level is lower than in Germany, but one should not underestimate the amount of work from lesson to lesson; because even in the USA you don’t get “thrown behind” good grades. The exams are easy to do, but the projects and group work require a lot more work. Overall, the courses were very interesting and a lot of fun, and I learned a lot. If you are interested, you should not forget to find out more about the sports program, as there is usually a large selection of different courses offered in the quarter / semester. Read more on Maternityetchic.

For me, the question of living off-campus wasn’t even a question. I stayed in an apartment with 7 flatmates in the international student residence and have never regretted it. I can only recommend it and would do it again anytime, because that’s how you get to know the “real” American student life. You meet so many students from different countries and live with different nationalities, so that a great intercultural exchange takes place, which is very interesting. It is also an advantage to live on-campus because everything is within easy reach, such as course rooms, cafeteria, gym and friends’ apartments. Many American students also live on campus themselves, so that you can quickly come into contact with your “compatriots” and make friends.

The USA is a paradise for shopping thanks to its outlets. Therefore, you should think about coming with only a half-full suitcase, or sending something by post at the end of your stay (although this is very expensive) or, like me, just checking in a second piece of luggage at the airport. Of course, you should also take enough time to explore California or other states in the USA. Traveling is just incredibly enriching and a wonderful experience. In the north of San Francisco there are many wine-growing regions that have a very special charm. In addition to the typical travel destinations on the west coast such as Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, Santa Monica and San Diego, smaller destinations such as Monterrey, San Jose or San Luis Obispo should not be left out. Also trips to nature like Halfmoon Bay, Lake Tahoe, to Sequoia National Park or Yosemite National Park are highly recommended. A visit to Las Vegas in the neighboring state of Nevada is of course also a must. After my studies, my journey continued to Hawaii and then to the east coast. After New York and the enchanting Boston, I went to Washington DC and further south to New Orleans. The highlight at the end of my trip was the Grand Canyon, which shows magical rock formations in different colors. You feel like you are on another planet and can only marvel at this natural wonder. I went to Washington DC and further south to New Orleans. The highlight at the end of my trip was the Grand Canyon, which shows magical rock formations in different colors. You feel like you are on another planet and can only marvel at this natural wonder. I went to Washington DC and further south to New Orleans. The highlight at the end of my trip was the Grand Canyon, which shows magical rock formations in different colors. You feel like you are on another planet and can only marvel at this natural wonder.

For me, studying abroad in California was a great time. In addition to improving the language skills in English, you make friends with very nice and interesting people from all over the world and get to know the American lifestyle. In my experience, most Americans are very friendly and helpful and are extremely interested in German culture. The USA offers so many enchanting places and natural spectacles that there is something for everyone due to the diversity!