Law student Dimitar has spent the last academic year studying abroad at the Humboldt University in Berlin, Germany. Read below for Dimitar’s insights.

Embarking on my year abroad to study at Humboldt University, I anticipated an academically rewarding experience in the heart of Berlin. In this blog post, I will discuss the highlights of my time at Humboldt University, the connections I formed, the valuable insights I gained, and the memorable experiences I had.

Exploring the Humboldt Campus

Humboldt University’s historic campus, situated in the heart of Berlin, is a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity that has fostered academic excellence since its inception in 1810. The campus features a variety of architecturally significant buildings, such as the main building, which showcases the university’s rich history through its paintings and statues of esteemed scholars. Additionally, the impressive Law faculty building serves as a focal point for the law students and most of my time was spend within this large, five-floored building.

Academic Life at Humboldt

As a law student at Humboldt University, I found myself immersed in a stimulating and enriching academic environment. The faculty, comprised of accomplished professors, travelling professors and current practitioners, exhibited exceptional knowledge and enthusiasm for their respective areas of expertise. The comprehensive curriculum, while rigorous and completely in German, was more flexible than other universities. I could choose a variety of interesting classes like Legal Tech and even some classes over the weekends. It was down to me to decide how to structure my schedule and which classes to attend, which also meant that if two classes were at the same time, I would have to choose one or the other.

One of the key aspects of my academic experience at Humboldt was the opportunity to engage in classes in German. In bigger classes, I attended occasional moot courts which tested my German language while smaller class sizes fostered lively discussions. This collaborative atmosphere nurtured intellectual curiosity and promoted a strong sense of community between the international law students and the German law students.

Discovering Berlin

Venturing beyond Humboldt University’s campus, I discovered the city of Berlin to be a treasure trove of historical landmarks, diverse neighbourhoods, and a thriving arts scene. Berlin is steeped in history, with sites such as the iconic Brandenburg Gate, the remnants of the Berlin Wall, and the infamous Checkpoint Charlie serving as poignant reminders of the city’s past. The city is also home to an array of world-class museums, including Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which houses five renowned institutions dedicated to art and archaeology.

Exploring Berlin’s various neighbourhoods revealed a rich tapestry of cultures and experiences. The bustling markets of Kreuzberg, for example, provided a lively atmosphere where locals and visitors alike could sample a diverse range of culinary delights. For a more tranquil experience, the Tiergarten offered an expansive, serene oasis within the city, perfect for leisurely strolls or quiet reflection.

Berlin’s nightlife proved to be an unforgettable aspect of my year abroad. The city truly comes alive after dark, boasting a plethora of lively bars, clubs, and underground art spaces. These vibrant venues provided the perfect backdrop for memorable nights spent exploring and socialising with new friends.

Reflecting on my year in Berlin, it was a year like any other – full of highs and lows, challenges and achievements. Studying at Humboldt University was an academically rigorous experience that required hard work and dedication. Living in a new city brought its own set of trials, from language barriers to adapting to a different culture. But in the end, these everyday experiences, as much as the memorable ones, taught me valuable skills. They taught me resilience, broadened my perspectives, and gave me a deeper understanding of the world.