This summer, Classics MA student Davis Holden represented Washington University in St. Louis at the German for Students of Classical Studies (GSCS) program at the Universität zu Köln. The six-week program brought together students from across the U.S. and Europe for immersive language training designed to strengthen their ability to conduct and present research in German.

Holden joined eight peers in an intermediate-level German course that combined classroom instruction with opportunities to practice academic communication. “The course provided us a fantastic setting to practice conducting, discussing, and presenting our research in German,” Holden reflected.

Outside of class, participants enjoyed a series of excursions organized by the University of Cologne, including German-language tours of the Landesmuseum in Trier and a Cold War bunker in Ahrweiler. Daily life in Cologne also provided rich opportunities for cultural exchange and connection.

Holden expressed gratitude for the support of the John and Penelope Biggs Department of Classics, noting that the experience was both academically and personally transformative. “I was fortunate to share it with a great group of peers, whom I hope to stay in touch with,” he added.