Midterms and Thoughts

I can’t believe that my experience in Berlin is already halfway through! Today, during dinner, Fe, one of my hosts, commented “Wie Zeit rennt!” (“How time flies!”) and I couldn’t agree more. My weeks in Berlin have fructified so many benefits, and in this week’s edition, I will perspicaciously look back on my time to catalog my progress in my goals, expectations, and even insights. I feel satisfied with my experience so far this semester, and with everything that has come from it, whether it be improved German-speaking skills or a wider scope of cultural experiences. I believe that the goal in which I’ve made the most progress is my German-speaking skills which is evident in my classes and my daily discussion with my host family. I remember barely following the conversations with my host family during the first couple of weeks here, but now I’ve been able to track the majority of the conversation and even respond appropriately. In addition to the practical and grammatical skills that I’m gaining in the classroom, Fe has been teaching me more idiomatic German through everyday speaking. I have an ongoing list compiled, and it’s only a matter of time before I add them to an Anki Deck (@deandanell). My efforts outside the classroom have been lacking, however, which is something I hope to change upon my return from Midterm break. With so much to visit and experience in not only Berlin but also throughout Europe, I find it hard to make time for additional efforts for German learning. Regardless, I feel a major improvement in that aspect of life in Berlin.

Speaking of improvements, I could definitely improve on my drive to step outside my comfort zone. I have spent a lot of time with MLC grads (@ Phil Balge and Logan Pankow), which I love, but creating individual experiences in a foreign setting is beneficial. This past weekend David, Phil, Logan, and I had the opportunity to visit Hamburg and enjoy the sights of a traditional harbor city. However, the entire time we stuck together in the city. This may be something that I can improve on in the second half of my time in Europe. With my German-speaking skills and branching out, I also want to improve my confidence in the country itself. I feel a need to confidently go about my time in Europe without worrying about whether I’m making the most of my time or not. This seems to be an issue for the first semester. I’ve caught myself worrying about the nitty-gritty details of life in Europe a couple of times. Those are the major three areas that I would like to see improvement in this semester.

Improvements are all well and good, but there have been several surprises that I’ve experienced while in Germany. The focus on environmental issues especially with waste is in sharp contrast with the American system. There is more than just your basic trash and recycling bin, and it has been something to adjust to quite regularly. There also seems to be a gap in fashion trends between America and Europe. I’ve noticed many trends that would not necessarily be prevalent in the United States. My conception of basic European has definitely evolved over the course of this semester and I hope to develop a more mature view of other cultures. Other than that, I guess have not much more to add as I prep for my Midterm Break. Until next time! Tschüss!