Rating: 9/10
Review:
I had the privilege of participating in "The Excellence Center in Europe" language learning program in Halle (Saale), Germany, during my summer break, and it turned out to be an incredibly enriching experience. The program provided a unique opportunity to teach English to refugees while immersing myself in the German language and culture.
One of the most rewarding and heartwarming aspects of the program was witnessing their progress and seeing how language learning empowered them to communicate effectively and confidently in their new environment. Engaging with my students, most of whom came from the Ukraine, allowed me to learn about their culture, creating meaningful connections that enriched the entire experience.I also had the chance to practice my German with the wonderful German teachers at the center. The mutual exchange of language fostered a supportive and inclusive environment, promoting understanding between different cultures. Additionally, the cultural immersion experiences provided by the Excellence Center made the entire program more profound and memorable. Regular interactions with native speakers outside the center also accelerated my language learning journey, helping me communicate more confidently and effectively with my students and the local community.
Through teaching English, I honed my adaptability and creativity in the classroom. Developing effective teaching methods to cater to diverse language levels and learning styles among my students was a fulfilling challenge. The program also encouraged community engagement, as I collaborated with fellow educators, volunteers, and local organizations to support refugees in Halle.
The relationships formed during the program extended beyond the classroom. The bonds with my students, fellow teachers, and community members became cherished connections that I will carry with me. The experience nurtured personal growth, enhancing my communication, leadership, and intercultural competencies, which are invaluable skills for the future. As the program concluded, I couldn't help but reflect on the positive impact it had on both my students’ lives and mine. The memories and experiences shared during "The Excellence Center in Europe" program in Halle (Saale), Germany, have left a lasting legacy, shaping my worldview and instilling a sense of responsibility to contribute to a more inclusive and interconnected world.
"The Excellence Center in Europe" language learning program in Halle (Saale), Germany, was a transformative experience that combined language learning with meaningful engagement in the local community. Teaching English to refugees while learning German provided an exceptional opportunity for personal growth, cultural exchange, and leaving a positive impact on the lives of others. I am immensely grateful for this unforgettable experience and highly recommend this program to anyone seeking a deeply enriching and rewarding language learning journey.
Pros of the program:
Studying and teaching at the same time
Meet new, AWESOME people
Cons of the program:
Response from The Excellence Center
Hi Shannon,
Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We are thrilled to hear that your week-long stay in Hebron, Palestine provided you with such an eye-opening and insightful experience. Our aim is to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all our guests, and we are delighted that you felt so welcomed and involved with your Palestinian host family and the other volunteers.
It's heartwarming to know that you and your brother are planning to return to Palestine. We believe that cultural exchanges and immersive experiences like yours can foster understanding and create lasting connections between people from different backgrounds.
We truly appreciate your recommendation to everyone seeking a knowledge-filled experience in the West Bank, Palestine. Your feedback means a lot to us, and it encourages us to continue providing meaningful experiences for all our visitors.
Once again, thank you for being part of our community, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future for more enriching adventures in Palestine. Safe travels and see you soon, Shannon!
With kind regards,