Where has the time gone? I can’t believe I have already been in Germany for four weeks and only have two full days left!
Today we had our European Law class in the morning and then went on a company tour of Possmann – the famous Apflewein manufacturer located in Frankfurt. Since apples are not in season we didn’t get to actually see how the Apflewein is made, but we did get to see the many steps that go into making it. After the tour Possmann let our group sample the different flavors of wine along with the apple juice they make. I was really surprised to learn that they are able to produce enough Apflewein in the fall to last Germany the entire year! We were able to see the massive holding tanks – which are actually submarines. Our tour guide told us about how difficult it was for Possmann to purchase these holding tanks because they were considered “weapons of warfare” at the time, and the US was hesitant to sell Germany such enormous submarines. Thankfully the US agreed after they found out what they were being used for!
Yesterday morning we attended class at the European Central Bank. It was really neat to be in such an important building. Our first lecture was on central banking itself, and the second lecture was on the importance of European integration in European central banking. After lecture the ECB provided us with a wonderful lunch and then it was back to Goethe University to take a German exam. I am a little nervous to see my score, but lets just hope all of the studying paid off!
Tonight we have another birthday, so the group is on the hunt to go find das boot!
