Traveling was my favorite experience from studying in Bonn

I chose to spend a semester studying at the University of Bonn due to its prime location in a historically important city not just in Germany or Europe, but also the world. The city of Bonn is the perfect size, and it is easy to feel at home here. There is a strong sense of community in this city due to the prevalence of the University and its students. Its prime location in Germany allows for easy access to big cities like Köln and the nearby airport makes international travel very easy and inexpensive.

I stayed in a university dorm in Poppelsdorf. I had an amazing experience here and was welcomed with open arms by the staff and fellow students. The location was perfect, and all the facilities worked well. My accommodation was comfortable, safe, and sanitary.

Choosing classes is a bit tedious, because as a Global Exchange student you must email each professor to ask to be enrolled in their class. I suggest making a list of questions (i.e., how many ECTS, final exam requirements, meeting times and places, etc.) to send to each professor before officially enrolling in their course. For the most part, professors were responsive and detailed in their response, giving me the information I needed in order to make a decision on whether to enroll in that course or not.

The University of Bonn is much smaller than my home university, but I found that made it easier to create a community in Bonn. You see many of the same people, quickly bringing familiarity to a not so familiar place. I highly encourage everyone to follow the Erasmus social media pages and join them in their events and excursions. This is the best way to meet fellow international students and even local German students.

Bonn offers a great deal of cultural, historical, and religious activities. Having been the former capital of Germany, there are many great museums dedicated to its history, both past and present. The home of Ludwig van Beethoven is a must-see spot as well. The city is full of old and beautiful churches that should be visited. I suggest taking bus or train trips to nearby German cities, or even flying out of the Köln-Bonn Airport to explore other beautiful countries Europe has to offer. As an international student from North America, traveling was my favorite experience from studying in Bonn.

Overall, my semester abroad was an excellent experience. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. I encourage everyone to take this step to study in Bonn as I believe it will be as fulfilling for you as it was for me. Be open to new experiences, new people, and new cultures in order to make the most of your time abroad!