Celebrating 20 Years of FU-BEST: A Transformative Study Abroad Experience in Berlin

This September, Freie Universität Berlin will mark a major milestone: the 20th anniversary of its renowned FU-BEST (Freie Universität Berlin European Studies) program. Over the past two decades, FU-BEST has grown into one of Europe’s most respected English-language study abroad programs, offering students from across the globe—including many from Rutgers University—a life-changing academic and cultural experience in the heart of Berlin.

Rutgers Global Study Abroad has proudly partnered with FU-BEST for over a decade, sending students to Berlin in the fall and spring since at least 2008. The program remains a student favorite, drawing those interested in European studies, language immersion, and cultural exploration.

“We have lots of RU students who have participated in the FU-BEST program over the years and have loved it,” said Lauren Winogron, Assistant Director for Study Abroad at Rutgers Global. “In fact, we’ll have three students there this fall semester!”

An International Hub for Academic and Cultural Exchange

Launched in 2005, the FU-BEST program was created to provide an immersive, semester or yearlong experience that introduces participants to Berlin, Germany, and Europe through rigorous academics and experiential learning. With courses taught in English across disciplines such as political science, art history, literature, cultural studies, sociology, and comparative religion—along with German language instruction—the program combines high academic standards with practical, real-world exposure.

“It's hard for us to believe FU-BEST turns 20 this fall!” said Dr. Kristina Rödder, Academic Director of the program. “What began as a novel idea has since developed into a vibrant, innovative program that continues to evolve while remaining true to its original spirit. We are excited to reflect on two decades of international transatlantic exchange, academic collaboration, and lasting connections.”

A celebratory event will take place in early September at the university’s Lankwitz campus to commemorate the anniversary.

Beyond the Classroom: A Journey Through Europe

One of FU-BEST’s distinguishing features is its robust experiential component. In addition to engaging classroom instruction, students take part in local field trips connected to their coursework and embark on week-long excursions to cities such as Prague, Vienna, Copenhagen, Munich, and Budapest. These trips deepen students’ understanding of European history, politics, and culture while fostering community among participants.

For those Rutgers students participating in the spring semester, the program offers an optional 8-week summer internship extension. These internships place students with organizations across Berlin in fields aligned with their academic and professional goals, an opportunity that allows students to further integrate into German society and build intercultural and career-ready skills.

Student Stories: From the Classroom to Careers

For many Rutgers students, FU-BEST is more than a study abroad program, it’s a launchpad for future aspirations.

Kate Beemer, a Rutgers student who participated in the program in 2024, studied German and journalism while in Berlin. She later secured a dream internship with MTV Germany, working in music programming and talent management. “Being in a professional environment where everyone speaks German really pushed me to use the language daily,” Beemer reflected. “It made a huge difference in my fluency and confidence.” (Read more about Kate Beemer’s story here.)

Another standout student, Iris Park, a German and Philosophy double major, also took part in FU-BEST. Her exceptional experience led her to be named a Young Ambassador by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) for the upcoming year. In this role, she will help promote study opportunities in Germany to students at Rutgers.

“I had the best time of my life while participating in the FU-BEST program, and this is no exaggeration,” said Park. “I met some of my best friends while studying abroad in Berlin and gained new members of my family while living with my host parents (we still keep in touch at least once a week!).”

Before moving to Berlin for four months, Park was hesitant to speak even basic sentences in German, however the language immersion helped her to make leaps and bounds in her language progress. In addition, she fell in love with the Berlin culture. She noted, “The culture of the city itself is something that drew me to Berlin in the first place, and its music, food, vibrant social scene and more are among the many things that made it my favorite city in the world. I will always look back fondly on my time in Berlin, and am now looking to live and work there in the future!.”

Looking Ahead

As FU-BEST celebrates 20 years of academic excellence and cross-cultural learning, its enduring partnership with Rutgers University continues to open doors for students eager to broaden their horizons, sharpen their skills, and become globally minded citizens. Through programs like FU-BEST, Rutgers University affirms its commitment to preparing students for lives of global engagement and impact.

For more information on how to apply to FU-BEST or other study abroad programs, browse our programs and visit our Advising and Events page for upcoming information sessions and advising appointments.