And did you know that candies like Skittles and Sour Patch are not very common here? I hope you also had as much fun hearing about my experiences as I did living them!
My time in Germany has also taught me to believe in myself more. I was able to navigate unfamiliar banking and rental systems, adapt to different social customs and be proactive in getting help when I needed it. Moving abroad was one of the scariest things I have done, but I have realized that I am capable of rising to the challenge. This self-confidence is something that I will carry with me even when I am back in Seattle.
For many people, the decision to live abroad for a time stems from a desire to learn more about their ancestry or their families’ cultures. In other cases, like mine, people may choose to live in a country outside of the US because of the jobs or education there. Some are simply curious and looking for something new. No matter the reason, I think everyone who wants to study or work abroad should try it, even if it seems intimidating to travel thousands of miles away from home! There are so many interesting and fun things to see in the world, and I hope that you too will be able to explore what there is to offer outside of the US one day.
There are resources and support available for those looking to study abroad. Most universities or colleges have international exchange programs, where students study in a different country for a school term (around a couple months). For me, I was able to study and do research in Germany thanks to a Fulbright scholarship. These scholarships give students money to live and work in a foreign country. In the future, if you decide to take a chance on being abroad, make sure to take advantage of these opportunities!
