CULTURE

Germany has given birth to many world famous artists and philosophers. In fact, it is also known as The Land of Poets and Thinkers (das Land der Dichter und Denker). Any self respecting student would at least recognise names such as Goethe, Schiller, Hermann Hesse, Kant, Marx, Nietzsche – and those are only a few writers and philosophers!

Religion today can also find some of its roots in Germany. A large part of Germany belong to the Christian religion. In fact, Germany has had a long history with the Roman Catholic Church. On the other side of the coin, Martin Luther, the renowned Protestant reformer hails from this part of the world as well. Despite the Holocaust, there are now about 100,000 German Jewish in the country.

Germany is not left behind when it comes to music and arts as well. People all over the world today listen to works of masters such as Beethoven, Bach, Brahms, Schumann, and Wagner.

EDUCATION

The ubiquitous word kindergarten can trace its origin to Germany. The fact that Germany invented the concept of teaching pre-school aged children should be a clear indication as how much the Germans value education. At present, Germany is home to some of the best academic institutions in all of Europe. Some of the more well known universities in Germany are Heidelberg University, University of Tubingen, University of Gottingen, University of Marburg, and University of Berlin. Of course, there are more academic institutions in Germany offering programs to foreign students. Their course offerings range from the general to the more specialised.

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN GERMANY

The quality of education isn’t the only thing Germany has it going for itself. One of the main attractions that Germany has to offer is its numerous castles and palaces. England surely has its share of these architectural pleasures yet German architecture has an allure and history of its own. From the North to the South, East to West, you will be sure to spend a lot of time exploring these historical sites.

If you prefer the freedom of being out in the water, boating trips are easy to arrange. Explore the varied landscapes of Germany on a boating trip. For a peaceful experience on land, you can visit the countless gardens and parks that are located all over the country. Refresh your soul and feast your eyes on different kinds of art in the numerous museums that can be found in the country. For more specific preferences, you can visit specialty museums featuring chocolates, computers, and potatoes, just to name a few.

Of all the countries in the world – and even just Europe – why go to Germany to study? Perhaps the better question would be, why not Germany? This country has had a long, rich, and controversial history. All of the events in its past have come together to contribute to what we know as Modern Germany.

Perhaps one of the things that Germany is well known for is the combination of age old tradition with the most cutting edge in technology. Hundreds of universities welcome international students with open arms. Academic freedom is one of the things that Germany is proud of. In Germany’s academic institutions, you will not only bury your nose in your books but you get to do a lot of research and on hand practice as well. This is one edge that you will definitely have if you study in Germany – theory coupled with applied research. You cannot get better than that!

More than giving students the training they need to enter the “real world”, the German education system focuses on the natural abilities of students. As such, you can more or less conduct your studies at your own pace. The pressure is unlike that of other universities’ and you can actually spend a lot of time on your own.

Going to another country to study is not all about school. You have excellent opportunities to discover and explore another country and culture different from your own. German culture and heritage has a lot to offer to those who are but willing to look and see. From natural landscapes to German cuisine to German prose and art – you will find more activities than you can ever engage in.

Spend weekends out of town as you frolic along the countryside. Go hiking or trekking or even skiing. Taste the different cuisines of the different German regions. You do not even have to go out of the city to experience something new. Visit the numerous museums and galleries. You can find both the mundane and the quirky. Truly, Germany has something to offer to suit every taste and preference - both in academics and leisure.

Going away on an extended trip is always a fun and exciting prospect. However, by no means should the excitement distract you from making your preparations for your travel. Getting ready to go to another country to study is, in some ways, similar to going on a vacation. On the other hand, there are so much more things to look after and many more details to take into account.

For a British student, one good thing about studying in Germany is the fact that you do not have to go through the process of applying for and acquiring a visa in order to for you to conduct your studies there. However, if your studies will take more than 3 months, you are required to apply for a residence permit.

One of the things that you should not overlook before leaving for Germany is your accommodations. Although you can probably find a flat or a room for rent when you get there, it would still be better to have everything arranged before you leave. Your academic institution can help you with this.

You should also try and set a budget. Calculate your tuition costs, living expenses, extra school materials, and leisure expenses. Then you can prepare what you need financially and not fear for lacking cash when you get there.

Though Germany is a very modern country and you may find the same amenities as you can find in the UK, it is prudent to be ready for any emergencies. As such, a first aid kit would be helpful. When you arrive there, keep one handy in your flat. If you are taking any prescription medicine or you take over the counter medicine frequently, you may want to have your own ample supply. Ask your doctor to write you out a prescription and get what you need before you leave the UK.

Most of all, ready your heart and mind for your trip. Keep in mind your objectives for leaving home – to study and expand your horizons. At the same time, do not forget that you are going to a foreign place to enjoy yourself.