Before enrolling in the global business program, I never anticipated the extent of knowledge I would gain about the city and country, coupled with ample time for exploration and travel. Upon our arrival, the seven-hour time difference meant sacrificing a day’s worth of sleep, marking the commencement of our journey. From the very first day, we attended guided tours of multiple areas in Munich, learning about its history alongside attending morning classes. This week has undoubtedly been the most eventful and action-packed period of my life. This program has not only exposed me to the value of personal exploration and travel but has also taught me the importance of effective time management, as I dedicate six hours each day to my courses. During my study abroad experience, my main objectives revolve around immersing myself in German culture, forging new friendships, and gaining insights into the daily lives of locals. Alongside these personal aspirations, I am eager to maximize my learning potential through the two courses I am undertaking. Moreover, I intend to improve my time management skills since I believe they are critical while abroad. Comparing the host country’s culture with that of the United States, I have observed a few notable differences. One of the most striking dissimilarities lies in the reserved nature of people. For instance, while traveling on trains, passengers tend to keep to themselves, engaging in minimal conversation, whereas our group engaged in lively discussions at a higher volume. Additionally, I have noticed the prevalent popularity of walking and biking in Germany, as they serve as common modes of transportation. This contrasts with the United States, where vehicles predominantly dominate the roadways. Interestingly, despite Germany’s reputation for consuming 130 liters of beer per year, people generally appear healthier in their overall lifestyle choices.
