Laura Lundahl
Freiburg, Germany
What is your major?
I am a double major in International Studies and Political Science, and a triple minor in Cultural Studies, History, and Philosophy.
Where did you study abroad, through what program/course, and how long were you there?
I am studying with the IES European Union program, which is based in Freiburg, Germany. School started on August 30, though I took a week and a half long trip to Switzerland before the semester started, so I got here on August 19. I come home on December 22.
What type of courses are you taking? - This program is a very in-depth study of the European Union. While I am based in Freiburg, the program has taken me all over Europe. So far I have visited Strasbourg (France), Berlin, Prague, Luxembourg, Brussels, Paris, and Geneva with the program to visit EU institutions. Next week I am going to Riga (Latvia), Stockholm, and London with the program as well. It is amazing because we study the institutions and the countries in class, and then we go to the locations. I have toured all of the major EU institution buildings, and have met with many senior officials from throughout Europe.
What is your favorite memory from your study abroad experience?
Oh, this is a hard question because everything has been great. It has been amazing living in Germany (Freiburg is on the outskirts of the Black Forest, so I have gone hiking there, which was fantastic). I have traveled to both Warsaw and Liverpool on weekends, and both of those trips were a ton of fun, and I am debating going to Istanbul in a few weeks. I don't have a favorite particular memory, but the ability to travel is my favorite part of this program.
hat would you say to someone considering studying abroad?
Keep an open mind, and do your best to integrate yourself into the new society. And if you get homesick, Skype is an incredible invention (an export of Estonia, dontcha know).
Has study abroad influenced your academic/career path?
I have wanted to work with the European Union for years, and this program has given me a lot more knowledge about this body, and that is going to look great on my resume,
The attached pictures are the European Parliament building in Strasbourg, a city street in Freiburg, me in front of the Bundestag in Berlin, the Old Square in Brussels, the Atomium sculpture in Brussels, me at the top of the Eiffel tower, and the Eiffel tower.