On the one hand, the program serves to foster transatlantic relations and to promote professional and academic networks between Germany and the U.S. On the other hand, it offers young U.S. journalists the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the political, economic and cultural environment in Germany/Europe with a special focus on the transformation of German media landscapes and the changing role of media in politics and society. The American visitors will explore which political, economic and cultural factors, both German and European, shape German society, and how they may affect German-American relations and public opinions. In meetings with government officials and journalists they will discuss German politics in practice and the importance of the media in the political decision-making process. Discussions with specialists in the print, radio/TV and the new media will provide close insights into the transformation of the German media landscape and will explore how these changes affect the functions and responsibilities of journalists and their dialogue with the public. The seminar will further look at the challenges and opportunities related to the continuing process of European integration and offer first-hand experiences with the German capital city of Berlin.