Leipzig Program will Take Roanoke Students to German City

Do you want to study abroad, but are concerned about costs and credit transfers?  Dr. Rob Willingham, History Department chair; Dr. Dana-Linn Whiteside, English professor; and Dr. Michael Hakkenberg, history professor, have created a new study abroad program called the Leipzig Program that might be the perfect option for students.

This semester-long program will start in the spring of 2018, and will allow 10 to 15 Roanoke College students to take four courses in Leipzig, Germany, a city about 100 miles southwest of Berlin. Since all students will be enrolled at Roanoke College, financial aid and any credits earned will transfer. Participating students will earn credits in German and history, and all will count toward a major requirement or an Intellectual Inquiry requirement.

There is no language prerequisite, and all students are encouraged to apply regardless of their knowledge (or lack) of the German language. Students accepted to the program will participate in an experience that immerses them in German language and culture, which will help familiarize them with the language.

Previously, programs have been offered in Wittenberg, Germany, where Martin Luther lived and preached. However, Willingham and Hakkenberg wanted to take the program to a bigger place while still keeping it connected to the College.

There is a rich history between Roanoke College and the city of Leipzig. In the early 20th century, several Roanoke College professors were sent to the University of Leipzig to finish their education. Leipzig was where Willingham studied German, and Whiteside taught at the University of Leipzig for a number of years.

Leipzig wasn't chosen just for its connection to the College, however. Willingham describes it as a "really interesting place with a low cost of living and extremely vibrant student culture." Since an estimated 35,000 of its more than 580,000 residents are college students, it makes for an interesting and fun place to spend a semester. Students will have opportunities to visit cafes, museums and theaters, as part of the immersive experience.

Accepted students will be housed in apartments, but will be responsible for their own food. Field trips to nearby locations such as Poland, Berlin and Strasbourg, France will be offered periodically.

The deadline to apply is in February, and anyone who is interested in the program should contact Dr. Rob Willingham at willingham@roanoke.edu.