Life as an Exchange Student

   I recently spent a semester as an exchange student majoring in International Business at Augsburg University of Applied Science in Germany. When I first set foot in Germany, I felt more anxious than excited. Instead of tourist spots, I got to observe and immerse myself in the daily lives of Germans. This experience allowed me to see and understand Germany on a deeper level. There were some disappointments, especially with administrative processes. However, overall, in the region of Augsburg where I stayed, people seemed cheerful and did not seem to be constantly rushing like in Korea. The simple act of neighbors greeting each other warmly and engaging in conversations was something I found less common in modern Korean society. Even on the streets, if eyes met, strangers would often smile and greet each other. Such gestures brightened my days.

   I truly had a plethora of experiences here. In Germany, I visited almost all major cities including Munich, Berlin, Hamburg, and Cologne. Additionally, I traveled to neighboring countries such as France, United Kingdom, Italy, Czech Republic, Hungary, Austria, and Spain. Aside from Germany, London was my favorite. For those who love Harry Potter or musicals, the spectacular sights amidst London’s bustling streets will surely leave an unforgettable imprint. Vatican in Rome, Italy, or Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain, are also places that you must visit. In fact, I was so moved by the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain that I spent almost seven hours there, despite the 45°C heat. One advice I would like to give is not to travel just with a tourist mindset. When you travel freely without time constraints, you remember the songs you heard, the people you met, and the emotions you felt, making the whole experience more enriching.

   In addition to my travels, hanging out and partying with local friends in Germany was immensely delightful. One observation that struck me was the Germans' evident fondness for Korea. I even met friends who spoke Korean, and some were planning to visit Korea the following semester. A particularly memorable experience with them was our visit to Europa Park, a renowned amusement park. Given its distance, we embarked on our journey at 4 A.M., arriving right for the opening and riding attractions non-stop until closing. If you ever find yourself on an exchange program in Germany or France, I highly recommend visiting this park.

   Lastly, I would like to share some advice for those considering an exchange semester to Germany. First, avoid rushing things. Although some processes might seem slow-paced, Germans tend to approach tasks with a sense of calmness. Second, when organizing trips within Germany, always include some buffer time. The DB, Germany’s primary railway service, is notorious for its frequent delays and cancellations. Third, I would advise you to try mingling with students from diverse backgrounds. From what I have observed, and based on my German friends, Korean exchange students often tend to get together. This can be comfortable; however, it might limit your experiences. Hence, even if it feels out of your comfort zone, make the first move, and engage. To sum up, the memories, experiences, and friendships forged will undoubtedly act as a catalyst in my life. I have no regrets. I find myself yearning to stay longer, even contemplating further studies, or seeking employment in Germany. I wholeheartedly cheer on your beautiful adventure. Best wishes!