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Academics : International Education Study Abroad

Study Abroad, Germany

2007-08 Study abroad program

Fall Semester (tentative schedule and curriculum)

NMH Coordinator: Elena Michelson

Tentative Dates:  To be determined (approximately the full fall semester)

Program: The study abroad program in Germany is a semester exchange program at one of nine independent gymnasia operated by Christliches Jugenddorfwerk Deutschlands Arnold Dannenmann Akademie (CJD). These excellent schools offer a broad program in German, math, sciences, religion, as well as in sports and extracurricular activities. Unlike the other NMH study abroad programs, the German program does not send a leader with the students. Instead, the program is planned by the exchange student advisor at the CJD and is designed to immerse our students in German culture and school life. The host school selects appropriate families for our students.  During the term, students become integral members of their family, participating fully in activities and traditions.

Academic Program: Students take four to six classes. American students do not take as heavy a class load as German students, yet they spend more time with homework because of the language difference. NMH students are expected to complete specific assignments given to them by their NMH German teacher. They are also required to do an independent project on a topic of special interest along with keeping a personal journal in German.

Homestay: Upon arrival in Germany, the group will meet the families with which they are to spend the next ten weeks. While students take classes, work with Germans, and travel throughout the country, it is clear that the homestay experience is the central focus of this program. Not only do students learn from living with a family, they alsodiscover a great deal about themselves and develop long-lasting relationships with members of their host family.

Requirements/Credits: This program is open to 11th and 12th grade students (but not open to Student Leaders) who have taken at least two terms of German. Students selected for the program have the self-sufficiency to benefit from the kind of program that demands an independent outlook and a self-disciplined approach to academics. 

Students receive three credits for completion of this program. Most likely the credits will be as follows: two credits related to German language and culture and a third credit in Intercultural Communications.

Intercultural Communications:  Intercultural Communications is a course designed to enhance the study of all term abroad programs. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the specific cross-cultural issues they encounter while studying abroad or away from campus. The course will also develop student awareness of cultural differences and provide them with appropriate coping skills and strategies while they are traveling away from school. In addition, students will develop an understanding of the basic elements of cross-cultural communication. 

Application: The application period is closed.

Fee: In addition to the regular cost of tuition, room, and board, students will pay a program fee of $500 plus airfare and other major transportation costs.