The Danube Summer Institute
AT A GLANCE
Term: Summer (4 weeks)
Locations: Berlin (Germany), Poznan (Poland), Vienna (Austria), Budapest (Hungary), Prague (Czech Republic)
Credits: 6-9 hours
CIFE Services included in the price:
- Prearranged accommodation in 4-star hotels
- Coach transfers to all programme destinations
- Public transport passes
- Museum passes
- Group meals
Note: the programme does not take place in 2022
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
The Danube Summer Institute is a four week programme that gives students from North American universities a thorough understanding of the foundational concepts of the European Union through the perspectives of five different member states: Germany, Poland, Austria, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. Throughout the programme, lectures from leading professionals and scholars provide a rounded understanding of the EU, which emphasizes not only the political functions of the broader institution, but also the unique history, culture, and role of nations within. Lectures on these topics are coupled with tours of various cities and major decision-making institutions, such as the German Federal Parliament and the Austrian Chancellery. Students exit the programme with a broader professional network and develop skills required for travel such as adaptability, flexibility, and independence.
THE DAY TO DAY
The programme routine presents academic content and exploration in tandem. Engaging lectures at major political and economic institutions provide a thorough, contemporary look at the European Union and roles of the member states that will be visited. Still other days are filled with walking tours or free time for participants to seek out in each city what interests them most. Several times in each city, students dine together at chosen locations to experience the local cuisine. Furthermore, accommodations are prearranged for the convenience and comfort of participants.
Berlin
Berlin is a fast-paced cultural hub, exerting a magnetic pull on businesses and political organizations. DSI participants will spend the greatest amount of time in Berlin where they will visit major institutions including the German Parliament, the Germany Ministry of Defense, and be introduced to principles and current issues in the European Union. Students will explore Berlin on a city tour, in their free time, and on a dinner cruise along the Spree.
Poznan
Poznan is a university city known for its quaint and well-preserved old town which will be explored through a city tour. Here, students will attend lectures at Adam Mickiewicz University, with which CIFE has long had a close academic relationship. Material will concern the history and culture of Poland, the city itself, and Poland’s perspective within the European Union.
Budapest
The cities of Buda and Pest, divided by the Danube, make up Hungary’s capital. Participants will visit the Hungarian Parliament and sit for lectures at the Central European University concerning the Hungarian political system. In Budapest, they will also complete an interactive ‘field assignment’ allowing students to learn from the community and reconvene in the classroom.
Vienna
The capital of Austria rightfully earns its nickname ‘The Imperial City.’ Opulent palace grounds, art museums, and sophisticated music culture are only part of what the city has to offer. Students will have the opportunity to hear from lecturers at important locations such as the Austrian Parliament and Economic Chambers. Ample free time and provided museum passes will allow participants to explore Viennese art and history on their own.
Prague
Prague’s most recognisable silhouette is that of the Charles Bridge over the Vltava River. The well-preserved city centre is strewn with Gothic spires and buildings flaunting Baroque splendour. Once the center of the bygone Bohemian Kingdom, the Holy Roman Empire, and more recently a Soviet territory, the Czech Republic has a unique European perspective to offer participants.
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