Details

• United States of America
• BaWiSo-23
• Undergraduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 4 months

1. Preparation

Application process It really depends on the professor and the interview format, but in general the most important thing is to be authentic. Try to find a personal, unique reason why you want to go abroad and what you want to gain from your semester. You also should be able to explain why you chose your specific universities, this incluedes academicall and personal reasons. I had a group interview, and also this is nothing to worry about, just be yourself and try to not be influenced of the answers of the others. General preperation For preparation, start early with the practical things: check visa requirements and take your english test in time. Also, try to get in contact with students who are currently abroad because they ususally have the best answers and may help you with direct contacts if you need any.

2. Accommodation

Accommodation search experience It honestly was kind of tough. You have a lot of different options, and you need to figure out what is best for you. Get in contact with the other students who are also going there and search together. Accommodation type Off-campus, in a house with six other exchange students. Location, safety, and proximity to the university I lived in the college area, within walking distance to the university. I can absolutely recommend living close by so you’re not dependent on a car, bus, or shuttle. It felt very safe walking around during the day and at night. Tips If you want to live off-campus in a house, look in Facebook groups and try to find other people who are looking for additional roommates, because most houses are for six or more people. But be aware of scammers. We rented our house from Eli Deventurero. I can definitely recommend renting from him.

3. Academic life at host university

The campus infrastructure is pretty good, with a lot of library space. It is definitely a lot louder than at WU, but if you look for it, you can find a quiet spot. You will also get access to the sports facilities, including a big gym, a pool, tennis courts, and a bowling center. The academic culture is a little more laid-back, and grades are less important for students. Most students I got to know had a job as well and therefore not that much time and less flexibility. So when you do a group project, try to choose your team members wisely if you want a good grade. The teaching style is much more personal, and normally the professor knows everyone by name. You also have informal talks, and professors share a lot of personal stories and information. Courses in general are a little easier, and the grade depends more on participation, group projects, and homework, as well as small assignments. It seems impossible to fail a course, but getting an A can be a challenge sometimes.

5. Every day life in the host country

Public transportation is pretty bad. If you want to go somewhere, a car is a lot more convenient. It takes over one hour to get to the beach by public transportation, but only about 20 minutes by car. Most areas (including the college area) are very safe. The only exception was downtown, this area is a bit sketchy, and I wouldn’t recommend walking there alone at night. The university offers a lot of clubs and hosts many events. College sports are very popular, and you can watch anything from American football to soccer to basketball. The arena on campus is also used for concerts and other events. You have a lot of opportunities to do sports yourself, you get access to a big gym, a pool, tennis courts, soccer fields, and a bowling center. As a student, you can also take sports classes like surfing, wakeboarding, soccer, volleyball, dancing, and a lot more.

6. Testimonial

It is an experience of a lifetime. You are in a completely new environment and meet a lot of new and interesting people. You make friends all over the world. For me, San Diego was the best choice I could have made. The city is really nice, and there are a lot of cool spots you can go to. The beaches are beautiful, and since Mexico is only 30 minutes away, it’s easy to go there as well. Every day something is going on, and you never get bored. If you have the opportunity, take it!