In this episode, Jacob explores Germany’s dual study model at DHBW (Duale Hochschule Baden-Württemberg) — the country’s largest university that focuses on dual study programs.

Joined by Chuck Caster, International Relations Officer at DHBW, Jacob explores Germany’s dual study program, an “earn while you learn” system that blends academic study with paid professional training. Students alternate between university courses and on-the-job experience, graduating with a degree and job offers.

They discuss the history, structure, and benefits of the program, the strong vocational education system, and how similar co-op and work-study models could help students and employers in the U.S. The episode also covers funding, international student opportunities, and how to study and work in Germany.

Perfect for anyone interested in affordable degrees, career-focused education, or studying abroad in Germany.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Introduction to DHBW’s Dual Study Model
(00:38) – Meet the Hosts: Jacob and Chuck
(00:53) – Understanding Dual Studies and Work-Based Learning
(05:36) – History and Growth of DHBW
(09:20) – Student Life and Academic Structure
(11:54) – Employer Partnerships and Career Benefits
(14:26) – Challenges and Comparisons with the U.S. System
(21:26) – Opportunities for International Students
(24:36) – Key Takeaways and Closing Thoughts

I sit down with three international students — Aloka, Malhar, and Yijuan — who are currently studying at Aalto University in Helsinki, Finland. We dive into their personal journeys: why they chose Aalto, what the application process and tuition were like, and the challenges they’ve faced along the way.

If you’re curious about study abroad experiences, international student life, or what it’s like to pursue higher education in Finland, this episode gives you an honest, firsthand look.

Chapters:

(00:00) Introductions

(01:30) First Impressions

(03:17) Discovering Aalto

(06:11) Tuition & Housing Talk

(07:02) The Application Process

(08:45) Challenges & Cultural Shifts

(11:18) Closing Remarks

In this episode, Jacob chats with Görkem, a student currently studying in Paris, about the real-life experience of navigating the French education system as an international student. From France’s remarkably low tuition fees to the essential guidance provided by Campus France, Görkem unpacks the perks and challenges of studying abroad. They explore the key differences between public universities and the elite Grandes Écoles, offering listeners a clear picture of academic life in France. Görkem also shares what it’s like to live in Paris — including managing living costs, finding community, and planning for a future career after graduation. Through it all, he highlights the transformative power of stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing the opportunities that come with studying in a new country.

Chapters

(00:00) The Value of Studying Abroad

(03:02) Navigating the French Education System

(05:49) Campus France: Supporting International Students

(08:57) Understanding University Types in France

(12:00) Student Life in Paris

(14:56) Comparing German and French Universities

(18:06) Living in Paris: Costs and Experiences

(20:56) Career Opportunities After Studying in France

(24:03) Advice for Prospective Students

For non-EU/EEA students, tuition at Amsterdam University College (AUC) is €15,420 per year for the 2025–2026 academic year, totaling €46,260 over the three-year program.

In this episode, we dive into the real experiences of students at Amsterdam University College — from the price tag to personal growth. Our speakers come from diverse backgrounds and share what drew them to this unique liberal arts and sciences university in the heart of Amsterdam. They reflect on the flexible curriculum, the application process, and what it's like to live and learn in a deeply multicultural environment.

We also get into the nitty-gritty: the financial realities of tuition and housing, the pros and cons of living in a close-knit student community, and how political shifts in education funding are shaping their futures. As they near graduation, the conversation turns toward big questions: career paths, unexpected lessons, and how their expectations have evolved over time.

Whether you're considering applying or just curious about life at AUC, this honest, wide-ranging chat offers plenty to think about.

Chapters

(00:00) Exploring Amsterdam University College

(03:12) Diverse Backgrounds of Students

(05:53) The Liberal Arts and Sciences Approach

(08:48) Application Process and Requirements

(12:11) Tuition Fees and Living Arrangements

(15:03) Future Aspirations and Career Paths

(17:51) Expectations vs. Reality of University Life

(21:05) Challenges in the Dutch Education System

In this episode, I interviewed José, a senior external relations officer at Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences. We discussed the beauty and compactness of Amsterdam, the experiences of living and studying in the city, and the differences between research universities and universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands. The conversation also covered the cost of living for international students, the student population's demographics, the challenges international students faced, and personal recommendations for favorite spots in Amsterdam.

(00:00) Exploring Amsterdam: A Beautiful City

(02:47) Journey to Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences

(06:39) Living in Amsterdam: Experiences and Impressions

(11:30) Understanding the Dutch Higher Education System

(18:16) Tuition and Cost of Living for International Students

(23:00) International Student Demographics and Integration

(30:00) Challenges Faced by International Students

(35:00) Favorite Spots in Amsterdam

In this episode, Lizzie—our incredible, go-to campus guide—gave me an unforgettable tour of Saarland University. She enthusiastically showcased the vibrant student culture, highlighting the stark contrasts in food choices, social dynamics, and facilities compared to the United States. Our lively discussion delved into the colorful tapestry of student life, the surprisingly affordable yet delicious dining options, and the distinctive experiences that make studying here a dream for international students. Whether you're drawn to the camaraderie or the cultural flair, this episode offers a firsthand glimpse into what makes campus life at Saarland extraordinary!

(00:00) Introduction to Campus Life at Saarland University

(03:04) Comparing Food Options: Germany vs. the U.S.

(06:11) Student Life and Campus Culture

(08:47) Exploring Campus Facilities and Resources

In this episode, I speak with Ivana, an international mission advisor at CEU San Pablo University in Madrid, Spain. During our conversation, she shared valuable insights about the university and student life. Tuition fees range from €8,000 to €16,000 annually, with flexible payment options that allow students to pay in full or in monthly installments. Living costs in Madrid are relatively affordable compared to other European capitals, making it an attractive destination for international students.

One notable advantage of CEU San Pablo is that international students can pursue their studies entirely in English, even without prior knowledge of Spanish. To further support students, the university offers free Spanish courses to help them integrate into the local culture. The admission process is straightforward and can be completed online, ensuring a smooth start for prospective applicants. Additionally, internships are a mandatory part of the academic program, which plays a key role in the university’s high employment rate for graduates.

(00:00) Introduction to Affordable College Options in Europe

(01:29) Exploring CEU San Pablo University

(03:37) University Environment and Student Diversity

(05:54) Cost of Education and Living in Madrid

(10:28) Language Requirements for International Students

(12:22) Campus Life and Student Support Programs

(16:09) Understanding the Admission Process

(21:11) Personal Experiences and Challenges

(25:16) Learning Spanish and Cultural Integration

(27:13) International Student Demographics

(30:00) Employment Opportunities After Graduation

(32:19) Personal Reflections on Living in Madrid

As one of Europe’s prestigious medical institutions, the Second Faculty of Medicine at Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic, offers a world-class 6-year General Medicine program taught entirely in English. The annual tuition fee is approximately $17,000 USD. In this episode, recent graduate Cristina shares her insider experiences and offers valuable advice for prospective international students. If you’re aspiring to study medicine abroad, this episode is a must-listen.

(0:00) Introduction
(2:15) Tuition
(5:00) Program Overview
(6:47) Learning a New Language
(9:47) Student Body
(14:50) Cristina's Experience
(16:18) Requirements
(21:27) Career Perspectives