SEMESTER ABROAD AT WESTCLIFF UNIVERSITY, CALIFORNIA
Antoinette Mähl
20 degrees, sun, surfing and studying: My semester abroad at Westcliff!
The combination of cultural diversity and breathtaking scenery makes California an ideal place to combine your studies with a short trip around California. I had the opportunity to study at Westcliff University in Irvine for a semester. The university has a very good reputation, the facilities are modern and the courses are very small, which makes it much easier for students to interact with each other. The courses are challenging but very interesting. I particularly liked the open discussion culture. As an exchange student, I took 4 courses, all from different subject areas, which helped me to broaden my horizons.
Life in California is characterized by sun, beach and a relaxed lifestyle. I found my room via the website www.furnishedfinder.com. To make friends quickly, I would recommend looking for a room near the university, for example in Irvine, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach or Costa Mesa. The people are incredibly open and helpful. What was particularly positive was how easy it was to make international friends. However, the cost of living should not be underestimated. Housing, food and leisure activities are more expensive than in Germany.
My most important tip is to rent a car, as you can’t get anywhere on foot in America, even if you want to go on a weekend trip to San Diego, you definitely need a car. I rented a car with a friend via the website www.turo.com, and it’s worth renting a car well in advance.
My semester abroad in California was one of the most formative experiences of my life. I not only learned an incredible amount academically, but also personally. I would recommend it to anyone who has the chance to have this experience. It takes courage and organization, but it is worth it in every way. For anyone planning a semester abroad, my main tip is to take every opportunity to discover new things and keep an open mind. California is the perfect place to surpass yourself.
