This is my final journal entry for Reach The World (RTW). My time abroad in Munich will end the first week of July. I have grown significantly and look forward to applying these new skills back at my home university in Starkville.
I expected mostly fun when planning my trip, but the challenges of studying abroad helped me grow even before going to Germany. Initially, I worried about finances in Munich after missing early scholarship deadlines due to me applying to the program late. Fortunately, as a Pell Grant recipient, I applied for the Gilman Scholarship last October to fund my second semester abroad. The essay process was actually enjoyable and I received $5,000 which eliminated my financial stress, allowing me to fully enjoy my time abroad.
Being in a new environment with different customs, and speaking with people who speak a language different from yours might seem a little scary, but I enjoyed the tasks I faced. My apartment did not have wifi and setting it up ourselves was daunting due to the language barrier. It took me a couple of days to work up the courage to try and get my wifi installed. Eventually, I managed to set up an installation appointment in "Denglish" (a mix of German and English) and I soon had wifi!
