Details

• United States of America
• BaWiSo-23
• Undergraduate
• SoSe 2026
• Time spent at the partner university: 5 months
• Contact: Login to see contact information

1. Preparation

I made a list with all the things that I need to do so I've got an overview. Also always be up to date with all the requirements regarding your visa and the deadlines for applications at the university. I travelled by plane from Munich to London, to Chicago and then also by plane to Iowa. I booked the flights a little bit late, which was unnecessary more expensive so make sure to book your flights as early as possible to save money. From the airport to the university I called an Uber which isn't too expensive. Get Uber One with a student discount! It's more than worth it. Also a valuable recommendation: For my phone contract I got an e-sim from Mint Mobile which is super easy to install, just get in touch with your current provider to make sure that this works for your phone beforehand. For the payments get a credit card, because a debit card isn't working most of the time. The credit card is also the best option for dollar payments, you don't need a separate account.

2. Accommodation

You can find everything on their website and if you have any questions you can get in touch with their international office anytime, they are super nice and very helpful. (Brandon Paulson is the GOAT) I was living on campus in a student residence. First at Daum (not recommendable) then at Stanley (very recommendable). Close to the Tippie College of Business so all my classes were close to me. Make sure to live close to that building if you have the choice because it saves you a lot of time walking around campus. The best residence halls are Catlett, Currier, Stanley, Burge and maybe Hillcrest. The best dining halls are Catlett and Hillcrest. There are gyms at Catlett, Hillcrest and Currier. (The rec center is often too packed)

3. Academic life at host university

10/10 American college experience. It is exactly like you would imagine it to be. Everything is on campus and the facilities are incomparable to the WU. Especially for any sports activities there are lots of options and also different food spots. The bar scene there is also a big part of their academic culture so hit the bars even if you don't want to drink. Don't go to frat parties, the bar scene is better in Iowa. The teaching style isn't that different to the WU but nobody is participating in class if it's not graded so don't be shocked.

5. Every day life in the host country

There is a bus system on campus which is surprisingly really good. Besides that the public transport is horrible in the US. If you are traveling to Chicago think twice before you go by Greyhound because the people on the bus there are pretty sketchy from my experience. Same for the safety, in Iowa it's very safe but in bigger cities like Chicago it can be dangerous if you take wrong turn. But not everybody is carrying a gun, it depends on the state, in Iowa City guns aren't allowed on campus. For social activities there are endless options provided by the university. Make sure to go to as many events as possible to make friends and get to know people. The easiest way to do so is through sports in my opinion. Sign up for intramural sports events!! It's the easiest way to make connections.

6. Testimonial

Best time of my life. I have no idea how I should put this whole experience into words. Within 5 months I built a whole new life there and I will always have Iowa deep in my heart. I can't wait to go back sometime and meet again with my friend there. Go Hawks!!!