The Life of a Michigander

Name: Anna Stileski

Who am I and where am I from?

Hello every one! My name is Anna Stileski. I am from Waterford, Michigan and I go to school at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. I am currently a Senior studying Communication Studies and German with a minor in Global Studies. I am passionate about animals, hiking, yoga, and rock climbing. I have lived in Michigan for my entire life so studying abroad is a big life change for me! In fact, I have lived in the same house since I was born. Needless to say, I am not the biggest fan of change. I am studying abroad in Munich through a program at my home university called Junior Year in Munich or “JYM”. This program allows Wayne State students studying German to spend a semester or year abroad. It also allows opens its doors to students from other American universities as well.

Why am I spending an exchange semester in Munich?

I am studying in Munich for a year because I want to improve my German language ability and I want to experience the culture first-hand. I was very fortunate to attend a university in the United States that has such a well established and renowned German study abroad program. In fact, our program is the oldest study abroad program for Americans studying in Germany. I would also like to have an internship in the communications field to give me more experience before entering into the workforce next Fall.

My expectations for my semester abroad:

I expect to expand my knowledge on the German language and culture as well as travel within Germany and to various parts of Europe. I would also like to take multiple Communication coures to see how they compare to Communication courses in the United States. I think that this opportunity will teach me not only about German culture but also, I will learn from my fellow classmates and their experiences.

My special plans for the next 3 months:

Currently, I have no special plans within Europe for the next 3 months, however, I will be travelling back to the United States for Christmas and I am very excited to see all of my loved ones. At the end of this school year, my family will be visiting Europe for the first time and I am very excited to show them around Munich. I am very excited for all of the great experiences that Germany will bring!