German Advising Contact Information With Office Hours From Tuesday, December 16 - Friday, December 19

You can reach the German advisors through a general email: germanadvising@umich.edu

We have two advisors for German undergraduates:

* Mary Rodena-Krasan (MLB 3128; mkrasan@umich.edu)

Mary's office hours this week are:

Tuesday, December 16: 11-1:30 p.m. (only via Zoom),

Wednesday, December 17: 11-3 p.m. (only via Zoom),

Thursday, December 18: 11-3 p.m. (only via Zoom),

Friday, December 19: 11-3 p.m. (only via Zoom),

and by appointment.

Mary's Link for Office Hours: https://umich.zoom.us/j/92765512004

* Karl-Georg Federhofer (MLB 3422; kallimz@umich.edu)

My office hours this week are:

Tuesday, December 16: 10-5 p.m. (only via Zoom),

Wednesday, December 17: 11-4 p.m.,

Thursday, December 18: 10-4 p.m.,

Friday, December 19: 10-4 p.m. (only via Zoom),

and by appointment.

My Zoom Link for Office Hours: https://umich.zoom.us/j/909147087

Our office hours will resume on Monday, January 5.

It is best to schedule appointments, which you have to do by 4 p.m. on the previous day. You can schedule appointments with us here: https://myadvising.lsa.umich.edu/appointments/offices/GERM

If you would like to get in contact with a peer mentor in our Department, please write to: germanmentors@umich.edu.

International Programs in Engineering: Undergraduate Research Program at RWTH Aachen: Thursday, December 18 (Application Deadline)

RWTH Aachen is a top research institution in Aachen, Germany, and the largest technical university in the country. The summer undergraduate research program (UROP) pairs University of Michigan students with RWTH researchers on projects in various topic areas like Biomedical Engineering, Business Administration, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, and Physics. Research is conducted in English. At the end of the program, students submit a report and present their research at the UROP Colloquium.

Students also take an intensive German course and participate in workshops on intercultural learning, scientific methods, and research practice in Germany. Students are greeted in Germany by their RWTH buddies who are friendly faces available to help during the first few days and throughout the program. The program is supplemented by numerous leisure activities and excursions with the buddies.

The credits for this program will count towards a German minor.

Summer 2026 Details:
* Program Dates: Friday, May 15 - Friday, July 31
* Program Cost: $2,060
* Housing Options: On Campus
* Application Deadline: December 18

Website: https://mcompass.umich.edu/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=10993

Job Posting - DITA XML Technical Writer for Endress + Hauser Optical Analysis in Ann Arbor, MI: Friday, December 19 (Application Deadline)

Endress + Hauser Optical Analysis are looking for a DITA XML Technical Writer. The company claims to be the global leader in Raman spectroscopy, tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS), and quenched fluorescence (QF) instrumentation for laboratory, process, and manufacturing environments. Its laser-based analyzer systems perform high-performance chemical composition and concentration measurement of all phases of matter in any installation environment.

The DITA XML Technical Writer is a key contributor to the Technical Communications team, collaborating with subject matter experts (scientists, engineers, production teams) and cross-functional stakeholders. This role works with a team to support the transition from legacy systems to a structured authoring environment, ensuring consistent, high-quality content across platforms and optimizing documentation for digital consumption.

Responsibilities:
* Create and revise technical content using a DITA-based Component Content Management System (CCMS), applying metadata tagging for reuse and localization.
* Develop content optimized for AI and Large Language Models (LLMs), including prompt engineering and semantic clarity.
* Lead terminology management for Optical Analysis technologies by researching standards, developing concept maps, and ensuring consistency across instrumentation.
* Lead and contribute to product documentation projects (operating instructions, installation guides, safety documentation).
* Collaborate with SMEs and cross-functional teams to gather, validate, and ensure accuracy of technical information for global markets.
* Conduct peer reviews and ensure compliance with corporate standards.
* Maintain version control and release content information via ERP or document control system.
* Manage product-related content in the product information management (PIM) system, including specifications, descriptions, and technical attributes.
* Support translation workflows to ensure multilingual content quality.
* Track project progress using project management tools.
* Audit existing product content and recommend improvements.
* Identify opportunities for process automation and efficiency within CCMS and PIM systems.
* Stay informed on industry trends and technology changes relevant to the role.
* Participate in global teams and networking initiatives to foster cross-entity collaboration.

The duties above describe the general nature and level of work being performed in this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties; additional responsibilities may be assigned, as required, by management.

Qualifications:
* Bachelor’s degree in Communications, English, or related field.
* 7+ years of experience in technical content development and delivery.
* Excellent oral, written, and presentation skills, with a demonstrated record of accomplishment in a global business environment.
* Ability to work independently and build trust across diverse teams and departments.
* Skilled at gathering, organizing, and documenting technical information from a variety of sources.
* Ability to interpret scientific texts and engineering drawings into clear, user-friendly language.
* Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
* Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
* Self-motivated, adaptable, and efficient with shifting priorities.
* Creative problem-solver with a lean mindset for process improvement.
* High linguistic competence in English and experience with terminology management.
* Proficient in CCMS and Office365.
* Collaborative, resilient, and diplomatic team player.

Desired Qualifications:
* Familiarity with GxP in pharmaceutical environments.
* Experience writing for AI-driven content systems or LLMs.
* Illustration skills (CorelDraw, Adobe Illustrator).
* Background in commercial analytical instrumentation.
* German language proficiency.
* Experience with regulatory standards and hazardous area classifications (ATEX, IECEx).

Website: https://careers.endress.com/USA/job/Ann-Arbor-DITA-XML-Technical-Writer-Mich-48103/1274904001/

UROP International at Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen - Summer 2026: Saturday, January 10 (Application Deadline)

UROP International is designed for students from North American universities who wish to gain research experience by conducting research projects at the RWTH Aachen University. It takes place during a ten-week research summer school between the middle of May and the end of July.

UROP International consists of three components: a research project at one of RWTH Aachen's research institutes or labs is at the core.

Additionally, students are offered a comprehensive accompanying program: an intensive German course and workshops on intercultural learning, scientific methods, and research practice to prepare them for their respective research project.

Furthermore, the international guests participate in a number of leisure activities to gain a look at German history and culture and meet German and international students at RWTH. Regular get-togethers, excursions in the region, institute visits, and much more, form the framework of the students' stay in Aachen.

The program’s duration is ten weeks. The first week is dedicated to a Fit for UROP workshop, introducing participants to research and culture, as well as to an intercultural training, which allows the students to gain an initial impression of German culture and informs about intercultural differences. Moreover, the first week is used to settle organizational issues and to make students familiar with RWTH Aachen University and with life in Aachen. Each student is assigned a RWTH student, who serves as a buddy and mentor during the first steps in Aachen.

From the second week to the end of the program, students work on their research project full time. The German language course starts during the first week and ends at the end of the eighth week. It takes place twice a week in the morning.

The program is supplemented by numerous leisure activities and excursions with the buddies. All communication is in English.

Students will receive a certificate for both their research project and the language class upon successful completion of the program, marked by the submission of a report and participation in the closing UROP Symposium, where students present project results as part of a research conference. A total of 60 students can participate annually in UROP International.

This program is open to all LSA students but is not administered through the University of Michigan. You will be eligible to receive German 351 credits (Fall 2026). Talk to a German advisor about language credits.

Engineering students should apply by Thursday, December 18, through the School of Engineering.

Website: https://tinyurl.com/vdf8rbzr

US Teaching Assistantship Program in Austria: Thursday, January 15 (Application Deadline)

The application period for the 2026–27 program year of the US Teaching Assistantship (USTA) Program administered by Fulbright Austria on behalf of the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education (BMB) is now open!

Please note that this program is managed and funded entirely by the Austrian government and thus is not part of the Fulbright grant family – recent US funding cuts do not target the US Teaching Assistantship Program. It is scheduled to take place as planned.

Requirements for Applicants: 
* US citizenship (dual US citizens are welcome to apply),
* A required German proficiency level of B1/ Intermediate Mid or above by the time of application (applicants without the required proficiency cannot be considered),
* A completed bachelor’s degree (by summer 2026 for program year 2026–27) or any higher degree. No age limit applies.

Good to know:
* Applications can be submitted on the online application platform until 15 January 2026! Uploads: CV, personal statement (1,000 words), proof of German proficiency, current official transcript, two letters of recommendation (uploaded by recommenders), signed application form. Students can start their applications now.
* Program dates: 1 October 2026 – 31 May 2027 (Applicants will be notified of their status in spring 2026. Alternate candidates could be offered spots between spring and early summer if spots became available).
* A teaching assistantship is a temporary job placement at two (rarely one or three) Austrian secondary schools. TAs work with mentor teachers at their schools.
* Info sessions on Zoom with Q&As for students and recent graduates will be offered in November and December (starting on 21 November; each at 19:00 CET/13:00 EST/10:00 PST) – students can register here! (other session dates: 11/28, 12/05, 12/12)
* Students who might have already applied for a Fulbright grant this fall, recently completed, or are currently completing a Fulbright experience are welcome to apply due to the management and funding of this opportunity outside of the Fulbright Program!
* Students who applied for either one of the two U.S. Fulbright Student combined grants (Combined Award or Community-Based Combined Award) in Austria are welcome to separately apply to the USTA Program to enhance their chances due to more available spots on the USTA Program. The teaching portion would be the same on all programs (13 hrs.).
* Recent German department graduates with a completed bachelor’s or master’s degree and interest in teaching in Austria can apply as well.
* Applicants need to be independent, resilient, adaptable to different environments, open, communicative, and reliable – they will be fully immersed in Austrian daily life, bureaucracy, and working culture. Sufficient German language proficiency is therefore critical.

* Watch former teaching assistants Caroline, Jared, Josephine, Rory, Sawyer, Jacob, Michael, and Kaj speaking on their experiences on the USTA YouTube playlist!

* Teaching assistants are insured and salaried instead of receiving a stipend or grant (numbers as of 2025–26: monthly gross salary of approx. €2.012/ $2,328; monthly net salary of approx. €1.631/ around $1,887). The USTA does not offer support for dependents, and the salary supports one person only.
* Selected candidates should be prepared to incur expenses and fees before and during their time in Austria. Please find a list of applicable costs here.
* Possible secondary school types to work in would be Gymnasium (academic secondary school; students’ age range: 11 to 18 years, 11 to 14 years, or 14 to 18 years) or vocational secondary school types focusing on business, engineering, preschool teacher training, hospitality/tourism, nutrition, etc. (students’ age range: 14 to 19 years).
* USTA also offers a limited number of placements at vocational secondary schools focused on agriculture, agricultural engineering, the environment, sustainability, biotechnology, animal husbandry, nutrition, horticulture, viticulture, and fruit/vegetable farming, managed by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Climate and Environmental Protection, Regions and Water Management (BMLUK). Please indicate interest in the personal statement and in the application form (school type preference).

Previous teaching experience is not required but can be beneficial – this includes (but is not limited to) tutoring, summer/language immersion/sports camp counselor duties, resident assistant in dorms, social/YMCA involvement, church or faith group leadership, Boy/Girl Scout leadership roles, previous TA jobs, or any other relevant career opportunities.

You can find a roadmap to the application here and this page by Austria’s Agency for Education and Internationalisation (OeAD) provides an overview of the Austrian education system.

Students are cordially invited to apply online via the USTA application website and to check their email frequently in case additional information is requested for review of their applications.

VORsprung - Preparatory Program for Non-EU Students Interested in STEM Field Studies in Germany: Thursday, January 15 (Application Deadline)

VORsprung offers an eight-month digital preparatory program for non-EU students interested in pursuing engineering and science studies in Germany. It is a closely supervised, free online course that participants can complete from their home country, including taking the TestAS and TestDaF entrance exams. Upon successful completion, the graduates can apply for a place at a German university in a scientific or technical subject.

Website: https://ow.ly/CEQz50XmS2C

Martin Luther King Event - 'Afro.Deutschland' (Directors: Susanne Lenz-Gleißner, Jana Pareigis, Adama Ulrich, 2017): Tuesday, January 20, 5-6:30 p.m., North Quad 2435

The film showcases personal stories of exclusion and racism, while also highlighting empowerment and the achievements of Black Germans throughout history. From Nazi survivor Theodor Wonja Michael to contemporary figures like rapper Samy Deluxe, the series challenges the question of "Where are you from?" and examines the colonial past and present-day issues of identity and belonging for Black Germans that parallels the struggles of Black-Americans which Martin Luther King Jr fought so hard to bring to the forefront of American consciousness.

ThinkSwiss Research Scholarships 2026: Saturday, January 31 (Application Deadline)

ThinkSwiss Research Scholarships offer students studying in the United States and Canada research grants at a Swiss research institution of their choosing. The duration of the scholarship is for a minimum of two months and up to a maximum of three months.

Eligibility Requirements:
To apply for a ThinkSwiss Research Scholarship you must:
* Currently be enrolled at an accredited U.S. or Canadian university/college,
* Be a graduate student or an undergraduate student who will have completed their sophomore year by the time the research stay in Switzerland begins, and
* Provide a written confirmation from a professor at a Swiss university that they will accept you for a research stay in their group.

In order to apply, please fill out the online contact form here and upload all supporting documents in PDF format by January 31, 2026.

Each application must contain:
* The completed application online form
* A research project outline (e.g. an overview of the tasks and milestones of your project that you agreed on with your host professor, max. 2 pages)
* A letter of motivation/explanation of why you should be awarded the ThinkSwiss Research Scholarship, why you would make an excellent “student ambassador” in the future, and why you choose Switzerland as your research destination (please keep this within 2 pages)
* A CV (no more than two pages)
* A copy of your current university transcripts and diplomas (if applicable)
* A letter of acceptance from the host professor and/or hosting institution in Switzerland (this letter should highlight the relevance of your research)
* A letter of recommendation from a current professor who can attest to the applicant’s abilities

The ThinkSwiss Research Scholarship provides a prorated amount based on the length of your stay (a maximum of up to three months). The students will get a stipend of 60 CHF/day from the start to the last day in the University, +3 days for arrival and departure up to a maximum of 90 days (5,400 CHF maximum). Please note that this amount covers only a portion of the average student’s living expenses and that you will be asked to prove sufficient financial means to the Swiss cantonal authorities before a visa can be issued (see information on visa below). The whole amount of the scholarship money will be transferred to the bank account of the recipient shortly before the departure date.

Website: https://swissnex.org/services/academia/thinkswiss-research-scholarships-north-america/

Academic Year in Freiburg 2026-2027: Sunday, February 1 (Application Deadline)

The best way to get to know Germany really well is to live there for an extended time.

By studying in Freiburg for a year, you can practically earn all credits required for a German major and may possibly get distribution credits and credits towards a second major; and you will live in one of the most attractive and desired places in Germany. This program is open to all University of Michigan undergraduate students.

Eligibility:
* Minimum 3.0 GPA
* Good academic standing
* Sophomore, Junior, or Senior standing by Fall 2026
* Completion of German 232 or equivalent prior to September 2026

Tuition for this year-long program is covered by a program fee, and students receive University of Michigan in-residence credit for the courses they take during the Academic Year in Freiburg. Students will not pay University of Michigan tuition during the year abroad. Additional costs include travel, room, and board. The latter two are considerably cheaper than housing in Ann Arbor is. You will live in a single in a student dorm in Freiburg.

Students remain eligible for financial aid. In addition, the German Department will reduce the program fee for all applicants by up to $1,000 this year. Further funding opportunities are available from the department as well; to inquire, please contact germandept@umich.edu.

For more information, see the AYF website at https://www.ayf.uni-freiburg.de/

You can find out more on Instagram.

Here is the link to the application website from CGIS (Center for Global and Intercultural Study): https://mcompass.umich.edu/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=10247

AATG Study Abroad Scholarship for College Students (Spring/Summer 2026 Programs): Sunday, February 1 (Application Deadline)

The brand-new AATG Study Abroad Scholarship for College Students supports full-time undergraduate students on their study abroad journey. Scholarships of up to $1250 are awarded in the Spring and Fall to support study abroad travel during different times of the academic year or during the summer.

The Spring/Summer application deadline is February 1, 2026, for programs commencing in the first half of the calendar year (January-July) of 2026. Recipients will be notified in early March.

The application deadline for programs commencing in the second half of the calendar year (August-December) is July 1, 2026. Recipients will be notified in late July.

In their application, students should describe the nature of their study abroad program, describe how this program will impact their studies, and why they are in need of funding.

Applicants will be asked to submit an unofficial transcript at the time of application.

This program is supported by donations to the AATG.

Website: https://www.aatg.org/study-abroad-grant

International Internships with IES Abroad: Sunday, February 1 (Application Deadline)

IES Abroad provides independent, hands-on learning opportunities through a variety of internship offerings. Rather than scroll through countless listings and submit application after application, work with IES’s career services team to discuss your career goals and IES will guarantee you a placement in the field of your choice.

Career fields vary by internship site. Some popular fields include: Arts, Business, Climate Change, Communications, Computer Science, Education, Fashion, Health (non-clinical), International Relations, IT, Journalism, Law, Marketing, Public Health, Technology, Tourism. & more!

Michigan students may apply to any of the following locations:
* Australia: Sydney
* Austria: Vienna
* Chile: Santiago
* France: Paris or Nantes
* Germany: Berlin
* Italy: Rome or Milan
* Morocco: Rabat
* South Africa: Cape Town
* United Kingdom: London

Website: https://mcompass.umich.edu/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=12289

Fund for Education Abroad - Summer/Fall 2026 and Academic Year 2026-27 Scholarship: Thursday, February 4 (Application Deadline)

The Fund for Education Abroad (FEA) scholarships are available for undergraduate students planning to study or intern abroad in Summer/Fall 2026 and the Academic Year 2026-27. A complete list of FEA eligibility requirements can be found here.

More details about the application and descriptions of all available scholarships, including Access Partner scholarships, can be found here.

FEA scholarships are awarded with a preference for underrepresented students and those with a demonstrated financial need.

Website: https://fundforeducationabroad.org/apply/

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) - Walter & Florence E. Aupperle Scholarship for German Majors and Minors: Tuesday, February 10, 3 p.m. (Application Deadline)

Established in 2003 by Walter and Florence Aupperle to provide four-year scholarships annually to students studying the German language, history and culture at the University of Michigan or Eastern Michigan University.

The scholarship amounts to $5,000 for each academic year that you are still enrolled here. If you are presently a first-year student with a German major or minor, you can renew the scholarship up to three times. The total amount will ultimately be $20,000.

Number of available awards: 2-3

Recipients may automatically renew their scholarship up to three times, to receive four years of scholarship support, as long as they continue to meet the Scholarship Fund criteria.

Scholarship Criteria:
* You must demonstrate financial need
* You must be a full-time undergraduate student pursuing a German major (history, language, culture, etc.) or minor at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor or Eastern Michigan University
* You must have a minimum GPA of 3.0

To renew a scholarship, you must be enrolled at the University of Michigan or EMU, maintain a 3.0 or above GPA, and submit your transcript showing your German major/minor, and verification of fall enrollment to AAACF for review each summer.

Required Materials:
* Online scholarship application
* Latest transcript
* Letter of recommendation, which must be completed by someone who is not a relative or family member
* Short essay, composed in English, answering the question: How did you become interested in German Studies? (Uploaded as an attachment)

The scholarship will be reported to the Office of Financial Aid at the University of Michigan, which will then be reassessing your financial needs.

Students can begin their application for the Walter & Florence E. Aupperle Scholarship (eligibility is below) by visiting the website to read more: https://www.aaacf.org/students/scholarships

You will then need to create an account to log in and access the application: https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=aaacfs

Contact information:
Maryellen Ferro
Community Investment Officer
301 N Main Street, Suite 300
Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Email: mferro@aaacf.org
Telephone: (734) 436-7586

Global Individual Grants for International Internships or Research Abroad: Sunday, February 15 (Application Deadline)

The International Institute Global Individual Grant is designed to support University of Michigan-Ann Arbor students who will take part in international internships or conduct research abroad.

Award amounts are up to $5,000.

There is no preference for particular fields of study and the International Institute aims to fund a diverse array of students and projects.

Eligibility Criteria
- Academic Levels:
* Undergraduate and master’s students in all schools/colleges
* Professional school doctoral students

* Applicants must be enrolled University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, students.
* International students are eligible to apply.
* Awardees must return to campus for at least one term before graduation.
* All travel must follow current guidelines, outlined in the International Institute Travel policy.
* Projects cannot begin before May 1, and cannot extend past May 31 of the following year.
* Projects must take place outside of the U.S. and U.S. territories.
* Projects must be at least 30 days (1 month) in length and internships must be at least a 30-hour/week commitment
* All travel must follow current guidelines, which are detailed in the International Institute Travel Policy.

Website: https://ii.umich.edu/ii/funding/iisf/global-individual-grants.html

International Internships with Sage Corps: Sunday, March 1 (Application Deadline)

Sage Corps sends college students to work with startups. Work full-time alongside CEOs, CMOs, and CTOs to build real solutions to real problems. They provide opportunities for specializations including, but not limited to, business strategy, data analytics, graphic design, marketing, software development, and UI/UX design.

Career fields will vary by internship site. Please follow this link for a list of internship career fields by location.

Michigan students may apply to any of the following locations:
* Amsterdam
* Barcelona
* Berlin
* Lisbon
* Madrid
* Paris
* Sydney

Website: https://mcompass.umich.edu/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=12286