‘Quality, environment, safety and hygiene‘ - Student Ellen Thomas abroad in California: A semester at the Bay

The Life Sciences faculty at HSRW boasts over 50 partner universities worldwide, including several in the U.S., with streamlined credit-transfer agreements. This network was pivotal for Ellen, making her dream a tangible possibility. In Monterey, Ellen encountered an academic rhythm that, while different from Germany’s, proved incredibly engaging. While German universities often emphasize self-directed learning, her American courses featured weekly quizzes, group projects, and mandatory participation. "In Germany, you’re trusted to manage your time. Here, constant assessments keep you on your toes," she said. "At first I was afraid of being stressed all the time, but I loved the challenge. By the mid-terms, I realised how much I'd absorbed without cramming - it was a really effective way to learn!"  

Beyond academics, Ellen immersed herself in the vibrant cultural landscape of California. American campus life, with its abundance of clubs, sports, and social events, was a delightful contrast to the commuter culture she was used to in Kleve. Throughout the year, CSUMB hosted events like Open Houses, Counselor Conferences, and "Admitted Otter Day" to engage with prospective and admitted students. Regular campus tours showcased the university, while the CSUMB Otters sports teams provided ongoing athletic events. Student life was further enriched by diverse activities, ranging from Super Bowl watch parties to Black History Month film screenings and roller rinks.   "In Germany, you go to class, then leave. Here, people live on campus, and there's always something happening!" she observed. She ultimately opted for on-campus housing, integrating into the college’s residential life—another stark contrast to Germany, where university culture is often more commuter-oriented.

Yet the experience wasn’t without friction. Visa delays, health insurance snags, and the “ever-present fear of missing a form” loomed large. “You think you’ve checked every box, then someone mentions a document you’ve never heard of,” Thomas admitted. "I had to prove my language proficiency, figure out course equivalencies, apply for financial aid, and make sure everything aligned with my home university’s requirements." The process, while demanding, was structured. Students are advised to begin applications 12 months in advance, with checklists for visas, language tests, and financial planning. The DAAD’s 2020 report underscores this: 78% of German exchange students rely on scholarships, and universities like HSRW bridge gaps with targeted funding. Thomas relied on scholarships from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and personal savings. "It was a huge financial commitment," she said, citing tuition fees, health insurance, and the starkly higher cost of living in California compared to Germany. But the academic and logistical aspects were only part of the story. Ellen took full advantage of her time in California, exploring the stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture of the region. Weekends were filled with trips to iconic locations like Big Sur, with its breathtaking coastal views, and the bustling city of San Francisco. Her explorations extended beyond the immediate vicinity of Monterey, encompassing the diverse landscapes of California and the American West. "I made it a point to explore as much as I could,” Ellen recounted with a smile, “and those experiences were just as valuable as my time in the classroom." 

For those considering a semester in the U.S., she has one key piece of advice: start early and embrace the adventure. "Use HSRW’s resources early. Attend the info session of the international Office," she said, smiling. "And be flexible - things turn out differently than planned anyway, but that's what makes the experience".