Howdy & Welcome!
As my departure date is arriving in 8 days to go abroad for 2 months, it still doesn’t fully feel real. It’s a mix of butterflies, nervousness and a long to-do list. But beneath all of that, what I feel most is excitement—excitement to live with a new family, to try new foods, to hear a language that isn’t my own being spoken around me every day. I can’t wait to be challenged, stretched, and surprised by all the things I’ll learn—both in the classroom and beyond.
That said, I’m not naïve about the challenges. I expect the hardest part will be communicating- not just because of language, but because of subtle cultural differences in how people connect, joke, express frustration, or show hospitality. While I have been practicing the common phrases in German, there are so many things I still do not know. My host family has 3 children ages 8, 5, and 1 and I am concerned that it will be very difficult to communicate with them because they probably do not know English yet like most German adults do. I’m also preparing myself for a few moments of feeling out of place or homesick, especially when things feel unfamiliar or overwhelming. But I’m trying to see those moments as part of the experience, not setbacks.
One thing I’ve been thinking about is how people might see me when I arrive. Being American often comes with certain stereotypes: loud, overly confident, or culturally unaware. I don’t really identify with those labels, but I understand where they come from. I hope people, especially my host family, see me as curious, kind, and open-minded. And if I could tell them one thing that might surprise them, it’s that although I may seem outgoing and energetic, I actually really value quiet moments, reflection, and just observing the world around me.
Besides the excitement and nerves, I also feel incredibly grateful. Not everyone gets an opportunity like this, and I don’t want to take a second of it for granted. I am feeling thankful to have parents who support me and desire for me to have these cool experiences, not only the study abroad but also the month longer before and after the trip that they are allowing me to go off and experience other cultures besides just German. I feel humbled to be welcomed into someone’s home, and I hope I can show my appreciation through respect, effort, and a willingness to engage fully.
Through this experience hope to grow. I hope to walk away with a deeper understanding of another culture, but also of myself. I want to become more independent, more confident in navigating new situations, and more aware of how big and beautifully diverse the world really is. This is more than a trip, it's a chance to grow in every way. And I’m ready for it.
It feels so good to read this and know that I am not alone in all of the feelings I am having while preparing to leave. I am also traveling on my own a little bit before our time in Germany together. Like you said, I am also hoping to gain independence and confidence navigating new situations through this experience. I love your mature outlook on this experience, and I know it is going to treat you well!
ReplyDeleteHi Ali! You summed up all the emotions so well. There is so much to be excited, nervous, and prepared for. As we get closer to leaving, these emotions continue to rise. I think it is so fun that your host family has young kids. I am sure you will have a wonderful time with them and maybe even get to help them learn some English. I am excited to experience this new culture with you!
ReplyDeleteHey Ali! I love how you voiced your feelings throughout this whole process, because I totally relate to you. I understand your worry about the entire process because it can totally feel overwhelming at times. But I think your thought process is graceful at handling the potential challenges we may face while abroad. Cannot wait to make some memories together!
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