RMC student connects with Germany
RMC students selected for the exchange program with G18 Technical College experience German culture.
Computer Studies student Jonathan Cunningham was among eight students chosen to participate in an inaugural exchange program with G18 Technical College in Hamburg, Germany. Led by Associate Dean of Computer Studies Chris Nassar, students spent five weeks abroad from May 28 through July 2. The program consisted of a two week internship at a German company followed by three weeks of classes at the G18.
Cunningham is currently a second quarter sophomore attending RMC DuPage Campus.
Q: What interested you in the Study Abroad program?
A: As soon as I found out that it was being offered, I knew that I wanted to go. For me, I was attracted to having an internship in a foreign country, something that I could have on a resume to show that I can successfully adapt to a foreign culture.
Q: What were your first impressions of Germany?
A: It was weird being a minority. It was like everyone just knew that you were different. I can sympathize more with minorities in America who don’t speak English because now I’ve experienced that first hand. It was difficult ordering that first meal [because of the language], and the meat didn’t taste anything like what I was used to.
Q: How did you adjust to German culture?
A: The big thing was trying to learn the language. I wound up asking my student mentors how to say things in German. “Please” and “Thank You” goes a long way. Also, everything except restaurants are closed on Sundays.
Q: Did you get to travel around Europe?
A: I knew that I wanted to see Rome, so I planned for that. I took a plane, and had a layover in Munich due to some technical difficulties. So I was already tired and frustrated, and I had one change of clothing because I didn’t want to check a bag. I covered Rome with a 50-pound backpack, carrying around a bag of souvenirs on the back of a tour bus. In the end, I got to attend one mass at the Vatican and get blessed by The Pope.
For my second trip, my parents encouraged me to see Paris because I had the opportunity to do so while in Europe. I took a 10-hour train ride and tried to stay up, but it got so hot that I passed out for five hours. When I arrived, there were all these homeless people begging me for money. I just told them that I didn’t speak French.
Q: What advice would you offer students interested in studying abroad in Germany?
A: Watch out for the bike path! (laughs) Make sure you spend your money wisely. Find out how much things cost and try to stick to a budget. And if you do any traveling, plan your trips well. Know where you want to go and how that will fit into your schedule.
Students interested in Study Abroad programs in their major may contact Monique Jones, Director of Student Services/Special Programs at: mqjones@robertmorris.edu.