Munich Send-off

Sending off Munich makes me look back on the days I first arrived here. And now thinking of the things I made so far here makes me want to pat myself on the back. I also thank all the people and experiences I had undergone here. As a German Language and Literature major, all the things here allowed me to significantly improve my German language skills and deepen my understanding of German culture.

Learning and Language Perks

I had the chance to dive into German language courses and literature seminars that really pushed me to improve my language skills. One especially impactful course focused on Goethe’s poem “Trost in Tränen,” with all discussions conducted entirely in German. While I had taken German courses that required speaking only in German before, this was my first time tackling German literature courses in the language. These literature courses were much more challenging than advanced language or linguistic courses, as they required me to understand complex texts and present sophisticated arguments. However, this challenge ultimately enhanced my linguistic abilities and deepened my appreciation for German literature. Moreover,  daily interactions with native speakers, from classmates to professors, further refined my language skills. Regular conversations with my German friends about a variety of topics provided practical language practice and invaluable cultural insights.

Cultural Exploration and Insight

Living in Munich allowed me to experience a rich cultural landscape that broadened my perspective on German traditions and contemporary life. Attending Frühlingsfest, for example, was not just about enjoying the festivities but also about understanding its historical significance and its role in Bavarian identity. Wearing a traditional dirndl and participating in the celebrations alongside locals gave me a firsthand experience of Bavarian culture. Additionally, visits to museums like the Deutsches Museum and historical sites such as the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site provided profound insights into Germany’s history and cultural evolution, deepening my understanding of the country’s complex historical narratives.

Growth and Hurdles

Adjusting to a new educational system and cultural environment came with its own set of challenges, requiring resilience and adaptability. Especially living away from my family for the first time and managing everything on my own was difficult, but it greatly enhanced my independence. Additionally, handling tasks like registering my residence, enrolling in insurance, and opening a bank account—all independently for the first time—was challenging. Also, conducting these tasks in German added an extra layer of difficulty. Despite my prior knowledge of German, real-life conversations, especially those related to bureaucratic procedures were very complicated. However, each interaction became a valuable learning experience, gradually building my confidence and proficiency.

Persistent Memory

As I leave Munich, I carry with me not just improved language skills and academic knowledge, but also a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and personal growth. The friendships I formed, the intellectual stimulation from engaging with German literature, and the cultural experiences ranging from festive to reflective, all contributed to a transformative semester. This experience has not only solidified my proficiency in German but also enriched my understanding of Germany’s cultue, shaping me into a more knowledgeable and independent individual.