A Blog about Education Abroad

Tag: Germany

  • Adriaan at Humboldt University in Berlin

    Adriaan at Humboldt University in Berlin

    Pre-departure

    Planning a trip abroad is perhaps one of the most exciting things to do. While it is important to read up and plan immaculately, it is just as important to keep in mind that no amount of planning would render a trip perfect and that, too, is okay. If you are, like me, inclined to plan too much, you might lose out on wonderful opportunities resulting, such as spur-of-the-moment day trips, changing your itinerary, or following the advice of locals whom you’ll meet at your host university, the local bar, or perhaps a hostel if you do an extended trip. (more…)

  • Olivia at Leipzig University

    Olivia at Leipzig University

    Updated: 16 June 2016

    Pre-departure:

    I’ve always wanted to do a semester abroad. After the success of my summer school experience in Berlin in 2013 (also through the PGIO), the next step was a semester of study in a new city. Leipzig was a great choice for me.

    Leipzig University
    Leipzig University

    Pre-departure is definitely the most important part of any trip. One can never be too prepared when it comes to travel. When working with the DE Consulate, I highly recommend booking your visa appointment as early as possible. The Consulate’s website also has a page where they explain exactly which documents to prepare in preparation for your appointment. Unfortunately for me, proof of acceptance was not enough. This is both curious and frustrating as the Consulate seems to treat different students differently. Hence, I offer one significant tip: make sure you are in contact with your coordinator – both at Stellenbosch AND at your institution abroad. The assistance of Jane Moros (my coordinator at Leipzig University) was essential to receiving my visa on time as the Alien Office was inundated with paperwork thanks to the influx of migrants into Germany in September. Another tip: keep abreast of all of the headlines in the country you’re about to enter so that you can take time delays (with regard to receiving important documents) into account.

    (more…)

  • Brian at the University of Stuttgart, Germany

    Brian at the University of Stuttgart, Germany

    Updated: 18 May 2016

    Brian is currently at the University of Stuttgart; here are his experiences and first impresssions.

    Pre-departure: 

    When I signed up for PhD studies, the intention was always to do part of my research work abroad/overseas, in order to get some international exposure, and also make new contacts in my chosen field of research. My supervisors were already in contact with a professor at the University of Stuttgart, who has expertise in a component of my research work, and was willing to supervise my work whilst I was in Stuttgart. This therefore influenced my choice of university for exchange, and the fact that the University of Stuttgart already had a partnership with Stellenbosch University made the exchange possible. (more…)