Howdy & Welcome!
As the time for our departure is getting closer and closer, I keep getting more excited! Living and studying in a new country for a few weeks is such a beautiful opportunity. I know the knowledge and experiences I acquire this summer are going to last me a lifetime. I can't wait to expand my knowledge of different cultures by immersing myself in German culture. I am also very excited about the course content we will be going through. I can't wait to learn more about the healthcare system in Germany and be able to make connections with the American healthcare system.
One of the most challenging parts of this experience for me is going to be feeling comfortable in a new country and home. I know it is going to take some time for me to feel comfortable, but approaching this situation with an open mind and outgoing heart is important.
I know I am going to stand out in Germany as an American tourist who speaks very little German. Standing out in this way makes me nervous as a young woman, and I hope I will not be taken advantage of. It also makes me nervous that I am going to feel/look foolish and uninformed. My goal is to embrace my differences and acquire as much knowledge as I can while also sharing the knowledge I bring with me as an American. I am American and a Texan, and as I identify with these labels and some of the stereotypes that come along with them, they are not all true. I hope people will be able to see this as they get to know me during my time in Germany.
As I am assembling myself for this trip, I am feeling slightly overwhelmed by the tasks required to be prepared for the trip while balancing my ongoing busy life at home. Going abroad involves so many tasks that are new to me, and at times it can feel like a lot. Besides my excitement for this amazing new experience that is in front of me, I am also nervous. I am most nervous about the amount of time I will be gone from the places and people I know at home. I hope to make connections in Germany that will allow me to feel less alone in a new country and ones that follow me back to Texas.
Howdy Abby! I 100% feel you when it comes to being nervous about sounding uninformed. I agree with you when you say you think the correct answer is to embrace our differences. This ideaology as well as the positive attitude you obtain will make for a wonderful experience on this adventure. I too am anxious about being away from home, but I think exposure can sometimes be refreshing as well. So excited for this adventure we are going to go on!!
ReplyDeleteThat's the right attitude, an open mind and an open heart! You will acquire so much on this adventure -- and I don't mean items but rather experience, perspective, new thoughts and ideas.😘
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