International Summer School Schmalkalden (ISSS)
Berlin and Schmalkalden, Germany
Important Information
Program Dates
June 3 - 22, 2024
Fees
EUR 1,790 (approx. CAD 2,700) for 2024
Language of Instruction
English
Course Credit
SSCI 1xxx and/or MGT 3xxx
About the Program
The 25th annual International Summer School Schmalkalden is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Germany while learning about its history, culture, and economy. Additionally, students can choose to take modules in cross-cultural management offered by accomplished professors from around the world. The program includes a one-week cultural tour of Berlin guided by a local Berliner that features trips to the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin State Opera House, Berlin Castle, cathedrals, the Reichstag, a Holocaust memorial, Hitler's bunker, the Museum of Terror, the Berlin wall, and much more. The next two weeks are spent in Schmalkalden, where students participate in more tours, a Midnight-Sun Lecture in the forest, the Schmalympics, five open-air concerts on campus, fireworks, and the Schmalkalden University of Applied Sciences graduation ceremony.
Student Q&A
Is there anything you did in your free time that you recommend to others?
I went to the pool, saw the castle in Schmalkaden, went to little markets, and went to another town to watch the Germany soccer game. AND the best thing I did was go on a hike with my new group of friends.
On average, what was the weather like?
Sunny/Cloudy - around 22 degree Celsius average
Any additional comments about Schmalkalden?
I love the city so so so much. It would always hold a special place in my heart.
Were the following provided for you?
- Airport pick up upon arrival - no
- Bedding - yes
- Kitchen facilities - yes
- Pots, pans, etc. - yes
How did you travel to the meeting point in Berlin?
I took a train from Amsterdam, which was totally fine and I would recommend if the student is traveling beforehand.
Do you have any additional comments about the University of Schmalkalden?
I love all the professors, you could tell they all cared so much about creating a positive experience for their students.
Do you have any comments about the accommodations?
In Berlin we were in a room of 5 girls which was tricky.
What was your favourite of the program?
My favourite part was being pushed out of my comfort zone and gaining the confidence to travel. I also loved meeting 30 new people and hearing about stories from their homes and their lives.
What would you suggest students pack before leaving Canada if they go on the same program?
An umbrella, portable charger, lots of GOOD socks, and comfy shoes!
What advice would share with future students going to ISSS?
Soak it all in!! If you don't have an activity planned for the day, reach out to other people on your exchange and go find something to do. Go on a hike, take a train to a new city, find a hole in the wall restaurant. But also don't be afraid to sleep in for a day and take some time to rest, it can be a lot.
Was there anything you did in your free time that you recommend to others?
Go on a hike!!
On average, what was the weather like?
24 degrees Celsius. Sometimes rainy
Additional comments about the city?
It was absolutely beautiful.
Additional comments about your host university?
It was amazing.
Were the following provided for you?
- Airport pick up upon arrival - no
- Bedding - yes
- Kitchen facilities - yes
- Pots, pans, etc. - yes
What is the best way for students to travel to the university upon arrival?
Bus
What was your favourite part of the program?
The people I met on the trip.
Is there anything you suggest students pack before leaving Canada if they go on the same program?
Pack a rain jacket.
Cost
Included in Program Fee
The fee of EUR 1,790 (approx. CAD 2,700) for 2024 includes lectures, accommodations for the entire program, and activities/cultural tours.
Not Included in Program Fee
The program fee does not include U of L tuition for the course(s) transferred, travel between Canada and Germany, and other living/personal expenses such as food.
Application Process
- Attend an upcoming info session.
- Apply to the summer exchange program on MyExperience under Campus Programs.
- We will review applications after the February 1 deadline and contact you with steps to apply to the partner if you are accepted.
Email outgoing@uleth.ca with any questions about the program or application process.