American students attending sessions at the University of Pforzheim during the summer season
In the heart of Germany, the University of Pforzheim is hosting a unique summer experience for American students. The "European Business, Politics and Culture" summer school, a partnership between the University of Pforzheim and Pennsylvania State University, has been running since 2008 and has welcomed approximately 170 young students.
Mayor Peter Boch extended a warm welcome to the exchange students at City Hall, expressing his delight at the opportunity for Pforzheim to showcase itself and Europe to the visitors. Despite the uncooperative weather, he was optimistic about better days ahead.
The summer school is a comprehensive programme that combines lectures on economics and politics with company visits and excursions. Topics covered include the EU, the German Mittelstand, the media landscape, and the political system of the Federal Republic. The programme is designed to provide the young Americans with a thorough understanding of European business and politics.
A city tour in Heidelberg, visits to the thermal baths in Baden-Baden, and the Europa-Park are also part of the programme, offering insights into life in Germany. The students also had the opportunity to sign the guestbook of the city of Pforzheim.
The programme includes a four-day stay in Berlin, visits to the Bundestag and the Ministry of Economics, two days in Munich including a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, a visit to the Federal Constitutional Court in Karlsruhe, the European Parliament in Strasbourg, the European Central Bank, and the Deutsche Bundesbank in Frankfurt. Company visits to Mercedes or BMW are also on the itinerary.
Five participants are also taking part in an internship program, gaining insights into a company in the Pforzheim area. The internship participants are accommodated in host families, providing a unique opportunity for cultural exchange.
The idea behind the summer program was developed by Prof. Dr. Thomas Coing, aiming to provide the young Americans with many lasting impressions and new experiences. Excursions are included to illustrate what has been learned and provide additional insights.
After the reception, the students were treated to a German language course, further enhancing their cultural immersion. Mayor Peter Boch described the summer school as "indeed a showcase, not just for the university, but also for our city, our country, and Europe."
The summer university aims to provide the young Americans with a well-rounded understanding of European business, politics, and culture, offering a European focus that combines theory and practice. The students are currently visiting the University of Pforzheim as part of this enriching programme, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
