HWS News
9 November 2023 Blocker Showcase Explores Life in Germany By Katelyn Oswalt '24
The 2023 Blocker Showcase allowed eight students to present their research on Germany, which was made possible with support from the Julius G. Blocker ’53 Endowed Fund.
Through an array of poster presentations, eight students presented their research during the 2023 Blocker Showcase this fall. The students conducted a variety of projects while studying abroad in Germany in the spring, supported by the Julius G. Blocker '53 Endowed Fund. These projects encompassed such topics as exploration of the country's entertainment industry and local cuisine, as well as assessments of museum visits and the evaluation of its transportation systems.
“The Blocker Fund is a result of a very generous bequest by Hobart alumnus Julius G. Blocker ’53. After his graduation from Hobart, he had the opportunity to be a Fulbright and studied in Germany, and he described that as a life changing experience,” shares Professor of German Studies Eric Klaus, who oversees the program. “He wanted to make sure that same opportunity was available to students at Hobart and William Smith Colleges.”
Student presenters included:
Malak Fadlou-Allah ’24, who studied at the University of Tubingen, reflected on the project she did in addition to taking five courses: two biology, a biochemistry, German language and an art course. “My project focused on the cultural expression, whether it be the food or the language, and how this yields this colorful picture that is Germany.” In her blog, she further discussed her passion for the country. “From the museums in Munich to the festivals in Stuttgart and Tübingen, and most importantly, the awesome cow I met hiking in Austria, all these experiences will be carried with me for years to come.”
Emma Kirts ’24, who studied at IES Berlin, focused her Blocker project on the entertainment industry. Her blogexplored multiple forms of entertainment, including festivals, museums, film and sports. In addition to her studies, Kirts, a member of the William Smith soccer team, joined a local soccer club “Berolina Mitte.” “Whether it was heading to the park after work or to the sports bar to watch soccer, I felt that there was community everywhere,” shared Kirts. “People always came together to enjoy entertainment and I really value that.”
Timur Piskiner ’24, who studied at the University of Leipzig, examined transportation in Germany as a part of his project, while also blogging about student life and cuisine in Leipzig. Providing a unique perspective as someone who grew up in Turkey, Piskiner discussed the differences between the German and American public transportation systems, as well as his general experiences adapting to a new culture. “From navigating the academic system to overcoming language barriers and embracing cultural immersion, every experience contributed to my personal and intellectual growth,” shared Pisknur in his blog post.
Cooper Robards ’24, who studied at Norwich University in the Berlin CityLab Architecture Program, presented his architecture projects at the showcase. While some of his blog discussed architecture, he also reflected on cultural differences and student life. These included his travels to Como, Italy and Paris, France. “I got to enact a new sort of agency in my life that I previously wasn’t aware of,” shared Robards. “It helped show me what I really value, who I want to surround myself with, and how I want to spend my time.”
Will Russell ’25, who studied at the University of Leipzig, examined German cuisine. A physics major, Russell was recently accepted into HWS’ Dual Degree Engineering program with Dartmouth College. In his blog, he examined popular foods such as Bratwurst and discussed local supermarkets. “My short life abroad has allowed me to figure out who I am and what I want out of life,” shared Russell, reflecting on his independence. “Instead of just following the same routine everyday I’m realizing there are more aspects to life.”
Marcelo Suarez ’24, who studied at IES Freiburg, focused his project on student life in Freiburg sharing details on sports and festivals, such as Die Freiburger Fasnet that is attended by thousands. Suarez also reflected on European Union institutions and sustainability initiatives within Freiburg. “It has been nice to meet people from different places and share with them unique experiences that will last forever,” shared Suarez in his blog.
Roman Vargas Garcia ’24, who studied at IES Berlin, examined museum studies, including memory culture and acknowledgement of the colonial past. In his blog, he detailed visits to historical grounds such as former concentration camps, as well as visits to Dresden and Munich. “Exploring the entity of Berlin and much less of Germany would take multiple semesters or even multiple lifetimes if I am being honest, but I am in all seriousness thankful for my experience with the time I was given to enjoy it,” shared Vargas Garcia.
Additionally, Bradley Kutchukian ’26, who completed a summer study abroad and language immersion program in Leipzig, presented on the history and architecture in Germany.
The Blocker fellowship provides financial support for those who choose to study abroad in Germany. In exchange, students complete a cultural project and recount their cross-cultural experiences through a blog. Read more information about the Julius G. Blocker ’53 Endowed Fund here.
Top: The Berlin Cathedral as taken by Will Russell '25.
