Study Abroad Reflection by Julia Piermattei

I had so much fun during my study abroad experience.  I enjoyed my time during adventures on the island of Bocas and sightseeing in Panama City.  My favorite activities that we did was exploring all of the beautiful beaches in Bocas, seeing all of the unique wildlife during the night-hikes in the rainforest, and going to the Old Panama City.  I was proud of myself for trying new foods and…

American Business Culture vs German Business Culture (6/28/22) by Andrew Bartholomey

During my summer internship I have been working with the VEDP. This is the State of Virginia’s European International Trade office. Their office is in Munich, Germany. Even though they are a United States government agency in Germany, there are a lot of differences working with the VEDP compared to working in the United States. First, the work hours are different then the United States. I work from 9:30 am to…

Traveling with the Bundesjugendorchester by Riley Mazey

This summer I have had the opportunity live and work like a local in Germany. My adventure started in Berlin where I studied at the Carl Duisberg Langauge Center. After almost two months of studying and soaking up life in Berlin, I started an internship working with the German Music Council. This experience has offered a unique internship experience and insight into German business culture. Every week this month I…

Berliner Bären by Darby Watford

As you walk down the streets of downtown Berlin, friendly statues of bears greet you in front of restaurants, businesses, and embassies. These painted bears with beautiful, unique designs are called the Berlin Buddy Bears, a staple of Berlin culture. The Buddy Bears came about in 2001 as an idea to bring art to the streets of metropolitan areas. The bear itself was chosen because bears are a symbol of…

Reflection by Nora Gore

I have returned home from my month-long study abroad adventure in London! Even though I was only there for a month, I still feel like I have matured and grown up so much because of my time there. I have gained an abundance of new knowledge and appreciation for the history and culture of London and all of the existing cultures within the UK. I learned that I am capable…

Living like a Local (5/31/22) by Andrew Bartholomey

I have tried various foods since living in Germany. I have tried Schnussel, Currywirst, and Turkish pizza to name a few food items. My favorite food item that I have tried has been Döner. Doner has been believed to have been started by a Turkish immigrant with its origins in Berlin. Doner is a sandwich made from Turkish flatbread and filled with shaved meat, vegetables, and a sauce. Most of…