Emmi Cotroneo
Berlin, Germany
What is your major?
Sociology, minoring in German studies, but I will soon be changing that to another major.
Where did you study abroad, through what program/course, and how long were you there?
I studied for three weeks in Berlin in the “Language and Culture in Germany” course. I was in Germany an additional four days after the course visiting friends.
What did your course consist of doing?
Working with other students from Germany and from Poland, living in a small hostel in Germany, and A LOT of tours in Potsdam and Berlin. It was really tiring and at times I just wanted to go to sleep but in the end it was totally worth it.
What is your favorite memory from your study abroad experience?
I had a great time on our free weekend during the course. I was able to take that time to go to Dresden on my own and experience the city on my own time. I spent a little bit of time in the museums and tourist areas, but my favorite part was by far the time I spent wandering the lesser known areas. I found a great little Indian restaurant while wandering that I would have never found had I kept to the tourist attractions.
What would you say to someone considering studying abroad?
DO IT! Make the most of every moment. When you feel like it’s getting long or exhausting remind yourself that you are taking part in a once in a lifetime opportunity that many people do not get a chance to experience. It’s awesome!
Has study abroad influenced your academic/career path?
I have played with the idea of taking German as a double major, but now I am definitely doing it. This course has also made me really want to take a longer study abroad opportunity, but we’ll have to see if I can work that out in my last two to two and a half years of college!