Gap Year Abroad in Berlin: Interview with a Student

We're always looking to hear how the experience of our students has been no matter which program they participated in. That’s why we take time to get feedback. In this case, we interviewed Henrik Rauch, one of our Gap Year students from 2022, who was on program from August to December with a host family in Berlin. He was able to study German and participate of the different cultural excursions we had organized. Research in the field show that Gap Year students perform better in college as they become more mature and confident in their decision-making abilities.

Read our interview below with Henrik: 

CIEE: How was your experience in Berlin?

 My experience in Berlin was nothing short of amazing. I learned so much about German culture and history in my time in Berlin and can’t wait to come back.

CIEE: How was the experience of staying with a home stay family?

My host family experience was good, I wasn’t sure what to expect going into it but my host family was welcoming and kind. Here you are. Semra and Andre (host parents) were super nice people. They took very good care of me throughout my time in Berlin. Ella and Zoe were the daughters, they were very kind to me as well.

CIEE: What were some of your favorite learning experiences while on program?

My greatest learning experiences came from all of the history I learned about just being in the city. I also loved exploring and experiencing a different culture from my own.

CIEE: How about some of the challenges you faced?

A challenge was learning the metro system but once I understood, it made so much sense. I already miss Berlin so much!

Thanks, Henrik, for sharing your experience with us!