Student Teaching in Germany by Jenny Onustack

For the last four months, I have been completing my student teaching experience on an American Military Base in Bamberg, Germany. A professor in the Education Department suggested that I apply to student teach abroad and I was enthusiastic about the idea because I have been interested in learning about other cultures, but had not heard of any study abroad opportunities for Education students. It is not well know, but there are many opportunities for Education majors to student teach abroad. I was placed by the Department of Defense in a first grade classroom at Bamberg Elementary School.

Through this experience, I have gained a greater appreciation of the German culture, as well as learned a great deal about the United States Military. During my time in Germany, I have had the opportunity to improve my teaching skills with feedback from a diverse staff, explore Germany on weekend trips, and become close friends with the six other student teachers in Bamberg.

This experience has impacted my life in many different ways. During my student teaching, I was able to receive feedback and ideas from a very diverse group of teachers from all around the United States. I met many fascinating people that I will stay in contact with throughout my career. I appreciated the opportunity to hear about the experiences and educational theories of teachers from such varied backgrounds. I feel that it helped me to be better prepared for my own career. This experience also enhanced my love of travel and history, which is an attitude to I hope to pass along to my students.

On the weekends, I had many opportunities to see historic sights throughout Germany. I enjoyed museums in Berlin, a boat cruise down the Rhine River, and several beautiful castles throughout Germany, as well as a short trip to Prague in the Czech Republic. I loved traveling and learning about the history of Germany so much that I am planning many future trips to other locations around the world, the next being Japan and China. My time in Germany has increased my confidence in myself as a teacher and a traveler and I now return to the United States with enthusiasm for the next phase of my life, and four months full of incredible memories.

This student experience written by Jenny Onustack. Permission to use story granted by the WSU Honors College.