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The KIIS summer program in Berlin affords participants a unique opportunity to explore and understand German culture and history. Course offerings on German language and culture, the German Enlightenment, and Holocaust Literature, in conjunction with group excursions in and beyond Berlin as well as ample opportunity for individual travel, will enrich participants' understanding of Europe and Germany in general and Berlin in particular. No previous knowledge of German is necessary; all instruction is in English.

The program is based in Berlin's Prenzlauer Berg, a district in the heart of the city known for its trendy shops, bakeries, restaurants, and family-friendliness. A small walk from the historical center of Berlin, the Hackescher Markt, the Museum Island, and the Jewish Synagogue, our program site is the modern Meininger City Hostel & Hotel on Berlin's Schönhauser Allee. This modern facility is located across the street from the subway station "Senefelder Platz," which offers fast and convenient access to such famous sites as the Brandenburg Gate, the Wall and Checkpoint Charlie, the Reichstag (German Parliament), Berlin Cathedral, Berlin's famous Alexanderplatz with the Berlin TV Tower, the Potsdamer Platz, and the Berlin Philharmonic. Bustling activity on the nearby boulevard "Unter den Linden" complements the tranquility of Berlin's parks and the relaxed atmosphere of its many street cafes.

Students should be aware that research materials, computers, and printing are limited on site; they are, therefore, advised, though not required, to bring along a laptop so as to take advantage of the free wireless internet service our Berlin facilities offer. Students take either one or two courses; coursework is geared toward making use of the resources and setting of Berlin. Classes are held in two 2-hour and one 4-hour block each week, with the intention of spending the shorter periods in our seminar room and the longer periods in and around Berlin. Classes are usually held Monday through Thursday for 4.5 weeks, leaving ample time for independent planning. Students' workload will be heavier in the beginning than at the end, allowing for some free time after finals to enjoy the city before departure.

The program director generally arranges several group excursions, including a trip to nearby Potsdam with its Castle Sanssouci, a visit to the German Parliament (Reichstag), a day outing to historical Dresden, an evening at the Berlin Philharmonic, and a riverboat cruise on the Berlin's river Spree. We will also share a welcome and farewell dinner.