I can?t believe it?s already May! This semester has flown by and I have enjoyed every moment. In the first week I was definitely homesick and a bit apprehensive about spending nearly five months in Germany, but just one month into this journey and I was already thinking that one semester may not be enough! I really like the semester exchange opportunity because it is long enough for me to become fully immersed in the culture of this country and people. It is long enough for me to have formed friendships that I am confident will last beyond my stay here. And it is long enough to make me appreciate my home in America, and family and friends.
I have realized that this is the perfect time in my life to have traveled and explored and learned as I have been doing for the past four months. As a student, I don?t have much money but I do have time, whereas as a working professional, I may have money but less a flexible schedule.
Don?t let lack of money scare you away from studying abroad! There are numerous scholarship opportunities available to students wanting international experience. I was fortunate enough to receive scholarships and I saved up additional funds while working a summer job. Also, while you are abroad, there are tons of ways to travel economically, and this is the perfect time to take advantage of cheap options (while we?re young and versatile!)
This has also proved to be a crucial time in my own growth. Four and half months in another country has given me true independence. There were absolutely no loved ones to rely on in moments of indecision or uncertainty. Sure, I could phone a friend (my mother, most times) but that didn?t change the fact that I was dealing with very unique circumstances that had to be handled by myself. I think I truly realized this independence when I was showing my parents around in Germany. I brought them to Vallendar and they saw where I have been living and shopping and studying. Also, I noticed that I have developed my confidence and ease in new situations. For example, I really took the reins when we went to Ireland. Despite never having been there before, I was very confident in navigating a new country with different rules and customs and acting as a tour guide for my parents!
One last thing: before I came to Europe I was also nervous about missing opportunities for a summer internship. I was afraid that it would be really difficult to get hired when I was out of the country! This is completely untrue. Don?t think that because you?re abroad you sacrifice the opportunity to find a job/internship. Many employers are utilizing skype to conduct interviews so it doesn?t matter where you are! Plus, it?s really cool to begin the conversation with ?Oh, well I?m in Frankfurt right now, so it?s actually 11pm.? That always sparks an interesting conversation. ?The benefits from this experience will more than make up for any temporary inconveniences you may go through.
Already, I?ve met people and I am introduced as having studied abroad and get to describe my adventures and experiences. I am able to understand more international topics and demonstrate that awareness to potential employers, and when networking.
So come on over! You won?t regret it.
