Department of Germanic Languages & Literatures University of Toronto
Elizabeth Frynta is a recent graduate of the University of Toronto’s Peace, Conflict and Justice Studies Program who also minored in German Studies and Political Science. Elizabeth is a two-time CSSG participant who took some time to share her German language journey with us while preparing for graduate school. This year, Elizabeth was awarded the Kim Misfeldt Prize from the Canadian Summer School in Germany. Elizabeth earned this award through her exceptional graded coursework, active engagement in the cultural program, and meaningful interactions in German with CSSG peers, instructors, and host family members during her time abroad.
Please introduce yourself to the University of Toronto community.
My name is Elizabeth Milena Frynta. I graduated in June 2024 with a major in Peace, Conflict, and Justice Studies and minors in German and political science. I participated in the CSSG program in 2023 and 2024.
What motivated you to apply to CSSG?
I was motivated to apply to the CSSG because I realized that although I was pleased with my writing, reading, and comprehension skills, my vocabulary outside the classroom was quite limited. I wanted to become fully immersed in German culture.
What previous experiences did you have learning German before joining the program?
My previous experience learning German was in the CSSG program the year before. In 2023, I saw such an improvement in my speaking level that I decided to return the following year.
Please tell us about the learning environment in Kassel. What were your classes and field trips like?
My classes were amazing. I was very lucky to have the same professor both years. The classes were highly interactive. We did a museum tour for our classmates, participated in debates, and even prepared three songs to sing for the other program participants. The excursions were jam-packed with tours to museums, hikes, and boat tours.
Living with a host family is an important part of the program. What is the value of living with a host family while studying abroad?
The value of living with a host family is that you are surrounded by German speakers 24/7. While with my host family, I was exposed to German culture’s familial and personal side. I became very close with my host family. We ate dinner together every evening, baked, picked strawberries, went into the sauna, and had barbecues.
What other experiences did you have studying abroad? For example, did you travel?
The CSSG organized all of my travel. The excursions were fantastic. What impressed me was the balance of “school” and “pleasure.” The program was so enriching in terms of language acquisition and travelling. Thanks to CSSG, I have visited Bamberg, Nuremberg, Hann, Münden, Marburg, and Berlin.
During the program, did you learn anything new about German culture, history and/or day-to-day life? Was there anything that you found to be particularly unique or profound?
The program organized different tours and cultural events for our excursions. We had the opportunity to try traditional folk dances, a graffiti tour, and countless other historical city tours. One experience that stood out to me was our visit to the Hohenschönhausen Memorial in Berlin. The stories of the victims of this treacherous Stasi prison were heartbreaking.
How has your experience studying abroad in Germany with CSSG improved your German language comprehension? What are your future goals or ambitions for learning German?
My German comprehension has become second nature to me, so much so that now I watch films in German and listen to German music. I have also translated for tourists who have stopped me on the street. My future goals for learning German are to use it daily and in my career.
What are other key benefits of the program aside from language acquisition?
Through the program, I met amazing professors who have been so supportive, both during and after the program. The staff is there with you every step of the way, so they get to know you. My professors helped me apply to Master’s programs and other internships.
What advice would you give to students considering applying to the program?
There is no better way to learn a language than to live in that country. Staying in Germany for six weeks meant that every place became my classroom. You learn a language by interacting with the locals. Even sitting passively on the subway helps you learn how people interact and the colloquial language.
Thinking about joining CSSG in Summer 2025? Visit cssg.ca for application requirements and guidelines!
Feel free to email german.undergradadmin@utoronto.ca for any questions.
