Snappy newsletters. Simple Facebook sharing. Spirited comments. Sweet features are waiting… GET THEM NOW!

Rent-a-Yanks Push Goodwill Abroad

German schools book young US speakers to combat anti-Americanism

By Colleen Barry,  Newser Staff

Posted Jul 27, 2007 10:03 AM CDT

(Newser) – American exchange students in Germany are so bombarded with broadsides against the US government and lifestyle that one university has started a program called "Rent an American." Yanks visit German schools to answer questions about the Bush administration, climate change, and the death penalty, all in an effort to help parry anti-American attitudes.

After sharing photos and similar political ideas students in the program often find their overseas peers beginning to warm to them, even though they clearly have very "strong opinions," said one rent-a-Yank. A German professor believes cultural differences may be behind the shyness: He reminds exchange students that political discussions aren't the "personal attacks" Americans perceive them to be.

A view on the old city and the Castle of Heidelberg, southwest Germany, photographed on Monday, June 25, 2007. Heidelberg is a German university city.
A view on the old city and the Castle of Heidelberg, southwest Germany, photographed on Monday, June 25, 2007. Heidelberg is a German university city.   (Associated Press)
A view of the old city of Heidelberg, southwest Germany. The city is home to a university.
A view of the old city of Heidelberg, southwest Germany. The city is home to a university.   (Associated Press)
Students study.
Students study.   (Getty Images)
Exchange students talk about the terrorist attacks on the United States.
Exchange students talk about the terrorist attacks on the United States.   (KRT Photos)
European and American students discuss current affairs.
European and American students discuss current affairs.   (KRT Photos)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
To report an error on this story, notify our editors.
A snapshot of the day's best news stories.
 
COMMENTS
Be the first to comment on this story.

More Newser Stories

More Students Get Fix From Study Drugs

Dorm Rooms Go Coed

Diploma Drop to Make College Entry Easier

Gunmen Injure 8 After Chavez Protest Rally

Has Wiki Replaced the College Library?


NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
Other Sites We Like:   24/7 Wall St.   |   Betty Confidential   |   BuzzFeed   |   Cracked   |   Fark   |   Timelines   |   The Frisky   |   Geek Sugar   |   NewsOne