Howdy!
Since being back home, I didn’t expect how much little things would remind me of Germany. Sometimes it’s the smell of fresh bread in the morning or the sound of bicycles passing on the streets of my neighborhood and it takes me right back to Bonn. Even how I eat or plan my day feels different; I catch myself moving a little slower and taking time to enjoy the slow parts of the day like they do there.
One thing I didn’t expect was how much living abroad would make me appreciate independence. Navigating a new city, figuring out public transportation, or handling small problems on my own pushed me to trust myself more. Even simple things, like ordering food or asking for directions, became confidence-building moments. I’ve noticed I approach challenges at home and school differently now, I’m more patient with myself and willing to figure things out rather than immediately seeking help.
Living abroad also showed me that I’m more adaptable than I thought. I learned to navigate new situations, make mistakes, and still grow from them. What surprised me most was how small cultural differences, a gesture, a habit, or way of speaking can change how people connect and understand each other. I feel like I’ve come back not just with memories, but with new perspectives of other cultures and all the things that I am capable of.
I am so thankful for my time abroad and all the amazing people and memories it brought me. I will cherish this experience forever and ever!
Thanks and Gig'em,
Ali Latham
