Harry Latimer

Why did you choose your host university?

I chose EBS university for a number of reasons. Firstly, as my degree is fairly specific in industry it was difficult to find exchange universities that offered property related courses that would grant credits towards my degree. EBS offered property investment related courses that I was interested in pursuing. Secondly, from a travel point of view, Germany is very centralised in Europe and thus made it a ‘homebase’ to travel around from Frankfurt airport and train station. Lastly, my best friend was also choosing to study there, too and thus made the decision even easier.

What was the university like?

EBS classes were vigorous in nature. Intensive 3-4 week blocks involving all day classes to satisfy an entire semester of content into several weeks made it challenging and different to what I accustomed to. Assessments were based on real life application (i.e workshops involving real life company problems). EBS resources were limited (small library and campus) and required minimal textbooks.

What did you gain from your exchange experience and has it changed the way you think or altered your approach to life?

I made lifelong international friends of whom I still keep in touch with consistently via various social media platforms. We are all planning a trip within the next year or so! I gained insight into how European students go about their days and develop professionally.

What accommodation options were available to you?  How affordable was accommodation and would you recommend the same option to others?

As the campus was located in a small town, local landlords knew they could manipulate how much to charge for rent and thus made accommodation very expensive. They knew it was a private university and so my roommate and I were paying 500 euro each per month for a twin share flat loft above our landlord.

There were many other similar situations to this. It has come to my attention however, that EBS is developing a student residential dorm right next to campus and will be open in the foreseeable future. In my honest recommendation, if commuting distances are not an issue, find an apartment in Wiesbaden city which might be much more flexible in price.

Describe your travel experiences; did you travel locally or to neighbouring countries? 

I was able to travel all over Europe. My friends and I would do 2 week ‘tours’ of several countries in close proximity and then return for study and repeat this process when study permitted. We would also travel locally and between states on weekends. Find as much time as possible to travel.

Describe how you adjusted to life in a different country and how you met new people.

Adjusting was easier than expected. There were a few cultural norms which I was unaccustomed to but were easy to assimilate to. German winters are much more colder than our Aussie version, though, lets just say that! EBS uni provided multiple events intended to allow for international and local students to mingle – wine tours, pub crawls, dinners and sometimes even tour groups to neighbouring cities.

Can you see any benefits from this exchange to your future career?

Definitely a strong addition to my resume seeing that I studied my degree in a foreign language speaking country. It also helped me to understand how foreign countries operate professionally when it comes to small-large companies.

What advice would you give to a student who was hesitant or considering joining the exchange program?

Step up out of your comfort zone and take the challenge on! It is great for your own personal and professional development and the moments and experiences will remain with you for the rest of your life!