Halfway Done???
I can not believe I am writing this blog post right now. Looking back at my experience so far, I am overwhelmed with good memories, ones that I’ll cherish forever. Not only have I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and tried new things, but I have learned so much about myself. If you ever find yourself traveling abroad, especially if it’s solo, you are going to learn SO much about yourself. You’ll figure out how to navigate your feelings better, and get a clearer understanding of who you are as a person. I came into this experience of study abroad fairly comfortable and confident with myself, but, wow, has this experience taught me so many things, and these are things that I would never have found out about myself if I had stayed where I was.
During your time traveling, I’ve found it’s so important to take time to experience things for yourself. Slow down, process, and cherish every moment. Day in and day out, I feel very blessed to be able to be here studying in Germany.
When I first arrived, I gave myself some goals to try and improve. I feel like I have made the most progress on speaking German and really taking time to slow down and appreciate moments.
It’s crazy how helpful and beneficial being in Germany has been for improving speaking German. It definitely makes a world of a difference to be able to learn it in the morning and immediately be able to speak it with locals the rest of the day. On that same note, I am really proud of how my confidence in approaching German people to speak with them has improved. That was a dream of mine, and it is awesome to see it become more of a reality every day.
Looking ahead to this next final part of my semester, I hope to keep improving this even more. I would also like to maintain a better sleep schedule, fingers crossed, as well as make sure I’m eating breakfast every day (food is fuel!). Getting enough sleep is not only essential for brain function, but it also helps keep you healthy and gives your body time to recover, which, as Berlin starts to get colder and more rainy as we approach winter, is something my body desperately needs. As for breakfast, it’s important for me to eat something, even if it’s not a lot. No one wants to have a rumbling stomach in their morning German class 😉
All in all, my opinion of German culture remains high. They have surprised me though! After being here for several months, I do not find them cold or uninviting at all. In fact, I have been treated with so much hospitality that I wish to carry that mindset, how to host and treat others with hospitality back with me to the US. If you take the time to talk to and get to know a German, they are so friendly and welcoming. Before I arrived, I had only learned that the Germans were a “cold” culture, but I do not believe that to be the case. As a whole, they may be more reserved, yes, but I have had too many lovely conversations with Germans to label them as “cold.” This factor has helped me greatly improve my confidence in approaching people, which was a major goal of mine coming to study abroad.
I hope everyone at home is doing well! I miss all of you so much!
Tschüss!
(Below is a panoramic view of Berlin in fall and a picture of my chai, which I have started making as a nice warm treat as the weather begins to get colder.)
