Foreign exchange programs are commonly carried out by universities to provide

students with the ability to study abroad in different countries. According to Amanda
Eggers, the study abroad coordinator at the University of North Florida, there are an
average of eight foreign exchange students each semester coming from Germany. Eggers
claims that Germans are fascinated by the idea that they could study, explore and meet
new people somewhere it barely gets cold. Therefore, its safe to say that German
exchange students could be classified as foreign adventure travelers.
The foreign exchange student program requires an equal transfer of students
whom are willing to study abroad from both Germany and UNF. Eggers states that there
are several different universities in Germany that UNF associates with when it comes to
foreign exchange: University of Education Karlsruhe, College of Business BaddenWuerttemberg Co-Op State University, Hackschule Bremen and Business School of
Applied Sciences Cologne
Egger also mentions that the average age for German exchange students is
between 20 and 25 years old. Since the start of the program in 2007 all of the students
have been classified as single undergraduates. In the spring semester of 2010 UNF
accepted 15 German students, four of whom were full-time degree-seeking students.
In universities such as the Business School of Applied Sciences in Cologne
students are required to study abroad in either the United States or a European country of
their choice, Eggers states. Jacksonville offers more than just enhanced academics for

German foreign adventure travelers - it welcomes them to a city full of natural

beauty, ranging from the beautiful beaches to the Talbot Island State Parks.
Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida by population and is the largest city by
area in the United States, according to Mrs. Jimenez. So, why would a German foreign
exchange student choose Jacksonville? The same reasons why anyone would move to
Jacksonville! Jimenez said.
It is an active destination that offers a real sense of what Florida is all about. The
natural landscape, eco adventures, relaxing beaches and rich history are all factors that
get Germans to visit our beautiful city, Jimenez continued. There are over 25 renowned
local breweries including World of Beer and the Hoptinger Bier Garden, all of which will
reflect a cultural value true to a Germans heart.
Whether experiencing a tailgate for a Jaguars game or a 4th of July celebration on
the beach, Jacksonville will immerse German exchange students to the American culture.
These experiences will satisfy their desire to learn more about the culture that was
previously only represented to them through media outlets.
According to Statista, an online statistics portal, nearly 57 percent of Germans use
Whatsapp as their primary communication source of information. It is also important for
them to regularly email their professors back home in order to keep them up-to-date.

Marlon Petzold
Public Relations Specialist
208 N. Laura St. #102
Jacksonville, Florida 32202
Mp@info.visitjacksonville.com