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Overview

Excerpt

This page is a hub of information related to the Argos on the Rhine (undergraduate) and MBA Study Abroad trips to Germany in May 20242025. Watch this page for updates!

Note: this page is best viewed on a computer screen

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Click Save for later and Watch in the top-right corner of this page to easily find it later and to stay up-to-date when updates are made!

On this page:

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Submit a Study Abroad Application

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Why Study Abroad?

I need help on this one...

Trip Dates

Start: Wednesday, May 1April 30, 20242025
End: Sunday, May 1211, 20242025

Destinations

Immerse yourself in cultural activities and company site visits in three countries in just 10 days! Destinations are subject to change during planning phase.

Mannheim, Germany (main location)
Lucerne, Switzerland (two nights)
Strasbourg, France (day visittrip)

Image Added

Switzerland (overnight stay)

Cost

Total cost: $2,750 program fee + course tuitionprogram fee (plus the cost of tuition for your course)

Program fee includes: airfare, hotel accommodations, local transportation, excursions, cultural activities, mandatory international health insurance fees, welcome reception, and farewell dinner.
- Program fee payments are nonrefundable.
Program fee does not include: course tuition (AOTR course: $702, MBA: $1,369.50); meals (appx $250); personal expenses and incidentals (appx $250, depending on your personal activities and purchases); international mobile phone plan (required)
Funding Opportunity: Students may qualify for the UWF Foundation Study Abroad Scholarship to reduce out-of-pocket costs. More information about this funding opportunity will be sent to approved applicants by International Affairs in spring 2024.
Payment Information >>
Eligibility Requirements
- - Course tuition is paid separately after you register for the appropriate summer 2025 course. Your advisor will assist you with the registration process.
Funding Opportunities: See the Apply for Scholarships section below.
Payment Information >>
Eligibility Requirements
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eligibility
eligibility
Students must meet the following requirements to be eligible for this opportunity:

Course Min GPA
Argos on the Rhine
Eligible to take GEB4361 International Business in summer
2024
2025
Prereqs: MAR 3023, MAN 3025, GEB 3213, and FIN 3403 with a 'C' or higher
2.5 or higher
MBA
Eligible to take
ECP 6705
ECP6705 Adv Managerial Economics in summer
2024
2025
Prereq: GEB5878 & GEB5930 with a 'C' or higher
3.0 or
higher
higher in MBA coursework
Course registration is dependent upon the status of your Study Abroad Application and compliance with Study Abroad Health Insurance requirements.
Flights
We will depart and return to Pensacola Regional Airport. All participants will travel as a group on the same roundtrip flights.
- If you do not live locally, please make arrangements to be in Pensacola at least 24 hours before departure on May 1stApril 30th. Exceptions will not be made.
Airline ticket purchases are dependent upon information obtained in your Study Abroad Application and valid passport. Make sure you have both of these items by the deadlines listed in the Dates & Deadlines calendar.
Date Departure
Time
Arrival
Time
Origin Destination Flight #
4/30/25

4/30/25 - 5/1/25

5/11/24

TBD

Pensacola

Atlanta

TBD

5/2/24

TBD

Atlanta

Frankfurt

TBD

5/12/24

TBD

Frankfurt

Atlanta

TBD

5/12/24

TBD

Atlanta

Pensacola

TBD

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5/11/24

Lodging

Hotel: Premier Inn Mannheim City Centre Hotel (tentative)

Rooming: Double-occupancy rooms. Students will be paired based on sex and enrollment (ex: two MBA males in one room). You are encouraged to select your roommate.

Submit a Study Abroad Application
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To get started, complete a UWF Faculty-Led Study Abroad Application. Applications are due by November 17, 2023.December 6 (date subject to change).

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Here's what to do next after your Study Abroad Application has been approved.

Attend Mandatory Meetings Anchormeetingsmeetings

If the button doesn't work, or if you have questions about the application, see Completing the UWF Faculty-Led Study Abroad Application >>

Approval Process

Once submitted, your Faculty-Led Study Abroad Application must pass through the following reviews before official approval will be given:

International Affairs (initial) - International Affairs reviews your overall application to ensure you meet UWF study abroad requirements
COB Faculty leader - Dr. Morgan (AOTR) or Dr. Hawkins (MBA) reviews your application to ensure you meet COB eligibility requirements for study abroad
International Affairs (final) - International Affairs completes full review of your application and confirms your approval

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Once your Study Abroad Application is approved, start preparing for May with the following required steps.

Attend Mandatory Meetings
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meetings
meetings

Attendance for all meetings is mandatory. Meeting dates are listed on the Dates & Deadlines calendar.

Make On-Time Payments
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payments

Due dates: Installment deadlines are listed on the Dates & Deadlines calendar.

Cost: The cost of the trip can be paid in five installment payments of $550.

Accepted forms of payment: Credit cards and checks are accepted.

How to Pay: Payments can be made in-person, over the phone, or online using the following instructions:

In-Person: Credit card and check payments can be made in-person at the Continuing Education (CE) Student Support Office, Monday through Thursday, from 9am to 4pm. We strongly suggest that you call ahead to request an appointment for in-person payments. Go to building 77, office 159 (located "upstairs") for in-person payments. Do not go to the Cashier's Office.
Phone: Credit card payments can be accepted over the phone by calling the CE Student Support line (850-473-7468), Monday through Thursday, from 9am to 4pm.
Online: Use the appropriate, unique link below to submit your payments. Each link is unique to your group and payment deadline, so be sure to click the correct link each time.
- You will need to create a profile the first time you go in to make a payment.

Payment questions: Contact the Continuing Education Student Support Office if you have payment questions (850-473-7468 or continuinged@uwf.edu).

	Argos on the Rhine undergraduate	MBA graduate
Payment #1	AOTR Payment #1	MBA Payment #1
Payment #2	AOTR Payment #2	MBA Payment #2
Payment #3	AOTR Payment #3	MBA Payment #3
Payment #4	AOTR Payment #4	MBA Payment #4
Payment #5	AOTR Payment #5	MBA Payment #5

Note

Refund Policy

Please be aware that no refunds will be issued after February 7, 2025, and all paid amounts will become non-refundable at that time.

Payment Questions?

Continuing Education (CE) Student Support Office
Call: 850-473-7468
Email: continuinged@uwf.edu
On-Campus: Building 77, Room 159

Apply for Scholarships
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funding
funding

Foundation Scholarship: Students should apply for the UWF Foundation Study Abroad Scholarship to reduce out-of-pocket costs. More information about this funding opportunity will be sent to approved applicants by International Affairs in spring 2025.

SGA Travel Grant: Each group will submit an application and presentation. Speak with your faculty leader for more information.

Purchase an International Phone Plan

All participants must purchase an international plan and have their mobile data turned on for the duration of the trip. This is non-negotiable, as we must be able to contact you at all times.

Not sure where to start? There are many travel websites out there with resources to help you choose the right plan for your budget. Here is just one of those sites, but we suggest you also do your own research: https://clark.com/cell-phones/international-phone-plans/

NOTE: In 2023, a student had to replace a Cricket Wireless plan with a short-term Google phone plan. The former did not have service in Europe.

Attendance for all meetings is mandatory. Meeting dates are listed on the Dates & Deadlines calendar.

Make On-Time Payments

The cost of the trip can be paid in five installment payments of $550. Installment deadlines are listed on the Dates & Deadlines calendar.

Payment Instructions: You will receive an invoice with payment instructions via email.

Purchase an International Phone Plan

Add language here...

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What other "Next Steps" do students need to prep for?

Course Info

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FAQs & Tips
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FAQs
FAQs

We try to add to and update this section regularly, so check back! If your question isn't addressed below, you can submit a question here >>

Course Info

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title	I've already taken the required course. May I still attend?

Unfortunately, no.

Expand

title	Will I complete the entire class on the trip?

No. You will complete a portion of the class during the trip. The other portion will be completed after via Zoom sessions and online deliverables in the summer semester when we return to the US.

Expand

title	What will class sessions abroad be like?

Coming soon!

Financial Aid

Expand

title	Are there any study abroad scholarships?

All students attending this trip should apply for the UWF Foundation Study Abroad Scholarship to reduce out-of-pocket costs. More information about this funding opportunity will be sent to approved applicants by International Affairs in spring 2025.

More info about Scholarships for Study Abroad >>

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title	Can I use my military benefits (TA)?

Please direct questions related to using military benefits to the Military & Veterans Resource Center (MVRC).

Expand

title	Can I use my financial aid (loans, grant, scholarship)?

Please direct questions related to using student loans, scholarships, grants, and any other form of financial aid to your Financial Aid Counselor.

Insurance & Legal Documents
Anchor
insurance
insurance

Expand

title	Do I need insurance?

Yes. The University of West Florida requires that all UWF students and programs going abroad have Study Abroad Insurance coverage.

Insurance costs are included in the cost of the trip.

See Getting Insurance for Study Abroad for more information,

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	passport

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title	Do I need a passport?

Yes. If you do not currently have a passport, we urge you to start the passport application process ASAP. You will need it well before the trip begins for things like airline tickets and travel insurance.

According to the State Department, current wait times are as follows (as of 10/12/23):

Routine processing: 8 to 11 weeks
Expedite processing (for an additional $60): 5 to 7 weeks

Expand

title	Do I need a visa?

A visa is not required for U.S. citizens. International students should contact International Student and Scholar Services for guidance.

International Student and Scholar Services
Building 71
850.474.2479
international@uwf.edu

Expand

title	Can I go as an F-1 visa student?

F-1 visa students should contact International Student and Scholar Services for guidance.

International Student and Scholar Services
Building 71
850.474.2479
international@uwf.edu

Technology & Electrical Devices

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title	Will my phone work?

If you have an iPhone or Android smartphone, you shouldn't have any problems. Older phones and some plans may pose an issue.

Expand

title	Do I have to purchase an International Phone Plan?

Yes. All participants must purchase an international plan and have their mobile data turned on for the duration of the trip. This is non-negotiable, as we must be able to contact you at all times.

Expand

title	How is the Wi-Fi?

Wi-fi is free at most hotels, but a bit less common at German restaurants and other businesses.

Expand

title	Will I be able to plug in my phone/tablet/laptop charger?

You will need a universal travel power adapter. Pay attention to the type (Germany and Switzerland) and whether other purchasers had problems with the individual adapter.

We recommend bringing 1-2 adapters and a power strip.

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title	Will I be able to use my hair dryer/straightener/razor?

It depends. Most US residences are on 110-voltage, but most of Europe uses 220-voltage. Some haircare devices come built with 110-220V Worldwide Voltage capability. If yours doesn't, then you may need a voltage converter because a 110V devices will fry itself when plugged into a European 220V outlet.

Money

Expand

title	How do I get euros?

Best: at a bank ATM in Europe (we will show you a couple).
Not as good: from your institution, before you leave.
Bad: at an airport or a big ATM sign.

https://clark.com/travel/handling-your-money-overseas/ (October 26, 2023)

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title	What about my credit cards?

Determine whether you have/can get a "no foreign exchange fee" card. Most major card issuers have them, even some credit unions, but your card may include a 2 or 3 percent fee for every transaction.
Notify your issuer that you are traveling abroad a couple of days before departure.
If the retailer gives you a choice, pay in EUROS (the dollar option is often a bad exchange rate).

For more, see our source: https://clark.com/travel/handling-your-money-oversea/ (October 26, 2023)

Shopping, Dining, & Public Transportation

Expand

title	Is it all schnitzel, pretzels, and huge beers?

No, food in Germany can be very healthy (salads are very popular) or very American (our fast food chains) or very traditional German. Gyros (called doner), kebab, pizza and other Italian dishes are also very popular. Since Germans love, and have, great bread, we will share the takeaway sandwich approach for inexpensive eating.

For beverages, some areas are wine producing and local products are always popular. Bottled water and soft drinks are common, and you can get most conveniently (and reasonably priced) at local supermarkets or convenience stores (drug stores) such as Rossmann, Müller, or dm. Soft drinks at kiosks and in bakeries are usually over-priced. Also: when you order a drink in restaurant, there are no refills.

Expand

title	Where's the ice?

Culturally, Europeans don't typically serve ice in their drinks, unless it's a cocktail that specifically calls for it. And you probably won't find an ice machine at the hotel.

Expand

title	Dining etiquette

Leaving a lot of food on your plate is considered somewhat impolite.

Expand

title	Pharmacies

You can get medication against common cold symptoms, headaches, toothaches, and digestive problems etc. at pharmacies over the counter (they are everywhere, but expensive so bring ibuprofen/aspirin type products if you know will use them).

For more serious health problems, you will need to see a doctor. UWF Study Abroad Services has spent a lot of time researching insurance programs to make this easy.

Expand

title	Public restrooms

Public restrooms are not free, costing anywhere from 30 cents up to 1 Euro (in cash, of course). If they are clean, we don’t mind!

Expand

title	How do I navigate public transportation?

Bus and tram stops have machines that sell small tickets (you can choose English instructions). Once you get on the bus/tram, there is a machine to validate the ticket. It is a little confusing at first but you don't have to rush, find the machine and get it validated.

Weather & Attire

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title	What's the weather like?

Average Temps: High 75°F / Low 46°F

Rain: Just like Florida, it could be sunny in the morning and raining by lunch time. We recommend having a small umbrella and/or poncho.

Many websites, like AccuWeather, provide historical weather information, but don't rely on them as fact. Plan to bring clothes that are easy to layer.

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title	What should I wear?

This section is still under construction.

Plan to bring versatile clothing that is lightweight, easy to layer, professional, and comfortable.

Do Bring...

Tours: business casual attire is appropriate
Final dinner in castle: business professional attire is appropriate

Maybe Bring

Leggings: there are mixed opinions on whether leggings are common attire for women

Don't Bring

T-shirts with weird, political, funny, etc. slogans/pictures

We will share pictures, from previous trips, to help you stay on the nicer side of casual.

Expand

title	Need a visual? Check out these photos.

Coming soon!

Expand

title	Is there a packing list?

We're in the process of compiling a suggested packing list, using feedback from past students. Check back soon!

Miscellaneous

Expand

title	Do the people speak English?

The vast majority of Germans speak very good English, but don't expect it. Some immigrants to Germany do not.

Practice German on Duolingo for at least 3 months. Locals usually speak English, but will only speak it to you if you make a good-faith effort to speak their language first.
-Sydney Alger, Argos on the Rhine, 2023

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title	Can I clean my laundry?

You should pack to minimize the need, but we have some tips in and near the accommodation, so ask. For example, we all wash microfiber apparel in the hotel sink and hang it up for a quick dry. Travel laundry detergent and clotheslines can be purchased online.

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FAQs

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FAQs

Expand

title	I've already taken the required course. May I still attend?

Unfortunately, no. If you are

Expand

title	Will I complete the entire class on the trip?

No. You will complete a portion of the class during the trip. The other portion will be completed after via Zoom sessions and online deliverables.

Financial Aid

Expand

title	Can I use my military benefits (TA)?

Please direct questions related to using military benefits to the Military & Veterans Resource Center (MVRC).

Expand

title	Can I use my financial aid (loans, grant, scholarship)?

Please direct questions related to using student loans, scholarships, grants, and any other form of financial aid to your Financial Aid Counselor.

Insurance & Legal Documents Anchorinsuranceinsurance

Expand

title	Do I need insurance?

Yes. The University of West Florida requires that all UWF students and programs going abroad have Study Abroad Insurance coverage.

Insurance costs are included in the cost of the trip.

See Getting Insurance for Study Abroad for more information,

Anchorpassportpassport

Expand

title	Do I need a passport?

Yes. If you do not currently have a passport, we urge you to start the passport application process ASAP. You will need it well before the trip begins for things like airline tickets and travel insurance.

According to the State Department, current wait times are as follows (as of 10/12/23):

Routine processing: 8 to 11 weeks
Expedite processing (for an additional $60): 5 to 7 weeks

Expand

title	Do I need a visa?

A visa is not required for U.S. citizens.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION --

TOPICS TO ADD

Tips for eating out (time, ordering, etc.)
Weather
Public Transportation video
Clothes (pics)
Classwork expectations

THIS INFO IS COPY/PASTE FROM RICHARD'S Traveling to Germany FAQ DOCUMENT.

Technology & Electronical Devices

Will my phone work?
If you have a recent iPhone or Droid phone, yes.
What about that expensive roaming data?
This has gotten somewhat better in recent years. It often means, however, purchasing an extra plan before you leave. For T-Mobile customers, data is free but slow (fast data is an extra purchase).
What about Wi-Fi?
Free at most hotels, a bit less common at German restaurants and other businesses.
What about my phone/tablet/laptop charger?
With an adapter. We love the OREI Grounded Universal 2 in 1 plugs (about $7 at Amazon)
What about hair dryer/straightener/razor?
Some of these products have 110-220V Worldwide Voltage capability. Check yours.

Money

How do I get euros?
“Using ATMs abroad is the most effective way to get money when traveling. But some banks will charge a foreign currency rip-off fee that usually starts at $9 or $10 per transaction! That's outrageous.”

“If you're with a big bank, check to see if they're part of any alliance where you can use ATMs fee free in other countries (for Bank of America, Deutsche Bank). Simply tell them what country you're going to and they can tell you if there's a fee-free alliance partner bank there.”
“You can also get fee-free ATM transactions abroad with most Capital One cards.”

Source: http://www.clarkhoward.com/handling-your-money-overseas (February 21, 2019)

What about my credit cards?
If you have a new one with a chip (and you know the PIN), you will have no problem using it. For a magnetic stripe, our experience is they will take it at department stores and hotels, but not at restaurants. In either case, notify the card issuer before you go or they may block the charge. Note: the card issuer will convert euros to dollars, but at a fee.

When you shop for coffee or a snack (and basically any small amount of money) make sure you have cash. Many places (like bakeries or kiosks) either do not accept credit cards at all or only if you spend more than 20 Euros.

Other

Do the people speak English?
The vast majority of Germans speak very good English. Some immigrants to Germany do not.
Is it all schnitzel, pretzels and huge beers?
No, food in Germany can be very healthy (salads are very popular), or very American (our fast food chains) or very traditional German. Gyros (called doner), kebab, pizza and other Italian dishes are also very popular. Since Germans love, and have, great bread, we will share the takeaway sandwich approach for inexpensive eating.

For beverages, some areas are wine producing and local products are always popular. Bottled water and soft drinks are common, and you can get most conveniently (and reasonably priced) at local supermarkets or convenience stores (drug stores) such as Rossmann, Müller, or dm. Soft drinks at kiosks and in bakeries are usually over-priced. Also: when you order a drink in restaurant, there are no refills.

What about laundry?
You should pack to minimize the need, but we have some tips in and near the accommodation so ask. For example, we all wash microfiber apparel in the hotel bathtub and hang it up for a quick dry.

Any tips for the trip over?
We like the neck pillow, noise cancelling headphones and a spare battery. Also, take a picture of your passport information and email the picture to yourself (we use to keep a photocopy in our suitcase, we like this better).

Public Restrooms are not free, costing anywhere from 30 cents up to 1 Euro (in cash, of course). If they are clean, we don’t mind!

Pharmacies. You can get medication against common cold symptoms, headaches, toothaches, and digestive problems etc. at pharmacies over the counter (they are everywhere, but expensive so bring ibuprofen/aspirin type products if you know will use them). For more serious health problems, you will need to see a doctor and UWF Study Abroad Services has spent a lot of time researching insurance programs to make this easy.

Air Conditioning.

Expand

title	What's the deal with air conditioning?

One surprise in Germany is that air conditioning isn’t popular.

Trains, buses, department stores, McDonalds, etc. have it, but many affluent

Germans

German homes do not.

On

On hot days, we employ strategies to stay cool and

take an extra shower.

Air conditioning will be even less common in Lucerne, Switzerland.

Expand

title	Any tips for the trip over?

We like the neck pillow, noise cancelling headphones, and a portable charger (power bank).

Also, take a picture of your passport information and email the picture to yourself (we used to keep a photocopy in our suitcase, but we like this way better).

Expand

title	Other cultural norms

Be quiet after 10pm, before 6am, and on weekends
Don’t be late; it's considered rude. We recommend being five minutes early.

Select Cultural Norms

Be quiet after 10pm, before 6am, and on weekends

Leaving a lot of food on your plate is considered somewhat impolite

It is polite to regularly use the terms danke (thank you) and bitte (you’re welcome)

T-Shirts with weird, political, funny, etc. slogans/pictures on them -- do not bring them

For tours, wear business casual attire is appropriate

For the final evening dinner, wear business professional attire

Don’t be late

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Dates & Deadlines
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dates
dates

Failure to follow these critical dates and deadlines could result in your participation being revoked.

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How to subscribe to this Google Calendar >>

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Contact

Contacts

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faculty
faculty

Argos on the Rhine Contact

AOTR Faculty Leader: Argos on the Rhine students will be under the instruction of of Dr. Felicia Morgan. Contact her with questions about how your course (GEB4361) will be structured.

AOTR Advisor: For questions about your eligibility and degree plan, contact Brooke Ciolino (bciolino@uwf.edu)

MBA Contact

MBA Faculty Leader: MBA students will be under the instruction of Dr. Richard Hawkins. Contact him with questions about how your course (ECP6705) will be structured.

MBA Advisor: For questions about your eligibility and degree plan, contact your MBA Advisor: