Weiss began teaching German studies at the U in 1956 and also served as the department's chair for eight years. He mentored new faculty and redefined how German studies was taught at the U, incorporating topics that went beyond language and literature to include urban studies and cultural history.

Learning abroad gives students the opportunity to study in other countries and expand their personal, professional, and global development. Read how a diverse group of GNSD students have made the most of their college careers by learning abroad!

Molly Tynjala recently graduated with a major in English and a minor in political science. Driven to learn more about her heritage, she began taking Finnish classes as a sophomore and discovered a deep appreciation for Finnish language and culture. The Finnish Connection Scholarship she received allowed her to explore the country firsthand. “The support of donors means the world to me,” she says. “It illustrates to me that other people still have hope for the future and have faith that young people will achieve remarkable things.”

Abigail Bauer is pursuing a German, Scandinavian, Dutch major and a minor in Swedish. Reflecting on a previous trip to Europe, she explains that “learning abroad makes real the history you learn in the classroom” because it creates a personal, tangible connection. She adds that learning abroad aids in personal development by helping you gain “new confidence to explore other places and their cultures,” and looks forward to returning to Germany this summer.