Many Germans, especially students, have a basic command of the English language due to mandatory school training. They like practicing their English and will want to speak “American English” with you. Since you will be doing your internship in an area where the purest German is being spoken – Hochdeutsch – you should insist on employing your German, if you are to make
the most of your experience in Germany.

Manners differ from one culture to another. Whether your behavior is well accepted or attracts negative attention depends entirely on the social and cultural codes of a given society. Germany and your home country are quite alike in this respect. The challenge is that many rules and regulations are often only difficult to follow and understand for outsiders.

Although German students may seem a bit distant and uncommunicative at first, please don’t give up! Once you have made your first few contacts things will pick up and you are bound to be included in the numerous social activities of German students.

Anyone with good contacts to fellow students, lecturers and supervisors will find it easier to manage their internships.