Student Exchange to Duesseldorf University of Applied Sciences, Germany
For my semester abroad, I went to the University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf, in Germany. It is safe to say that I have gained so much more than I had expected to, and it has been the best time.
Before coming here, the preparation process was a path paved with tons of paperwork. From the school application portfolio for the exchange program, to the visa and bank issues I had to resolve. I thought the paperwork was complex back home in Taiwan, but that was before I came to a foreign country with no prior knowledge of the language. Its times like this when you’re really going to get home sick. In all seriousness though, I’ve learnt that at the end of the day, you still need to get things done. Therefore, when faced with a hardship, you have to find a way and just deal with it. That’s adulthood 101 right there. “Become a more independent person and persevere through multiple difficulties” goal, check!
Looking back, I think six months really isn’t as long as it seems on paper, I wish time moved slower! Reflecting on my stay in Dusseldorf, I could break it down to three phases: “The Novelty Phase”, when I was finding my way around and adapting to the new environment; “The I’m-part-of-the-city-now phase”, when it felt like I’ve found my routine and set a good rhythm to my life here; and lastly “The Dreading-to-leave-Germany Phase” when it felt like time was running out and everything I did would be the last time I got to experience it. The memories are full and vibrant, I am utterly gratified that I’ve had the chance to live and study here.
For me, adapting to a new environment has never been an issue, it actually took me less than 24 hours to settle down and find my bearings. Even though I had a mishap with my transfer flight (a thunderstorm cancelled my plane ride) and everything seemed like it was off to a bad start. But thankfully along the way I’ve met the kindest people who have helped me, and I am eternally grateful. (Life hack: if you need help, don’t be afraid, and just ask!) Moreover, making new friends, finding your squad, and facing intercultural communication is at the top of my list of things I loved about studying abroad! It’s from the most mundane everyday situations, for example I learned through my Spanish speaking friends that bending your index finger mimicking nodding means yes. How interesting! These are the memories I will cherish and they are the people I’ll miss when I’m back in Taiwan.
Believe it or not, I enjoyed going to school! The difference in teaching dynamic is so refreshing and I’m in awe of how disciplined the students are with their studies. The grading system is mostly based entirely on your final exam score, with a few courses giving grades from term papers or presentations as the exception. It takes “working hard FOR yourself” to a whole new level. Because you are the decider of whether you go to school or not, you alone are burdening the consequences of your decisions, and through this, your character traits are built. This is the attitude I want to have when I’m trying to mature into a better person/student, to invest in myself and strive to achieve the best version of me.
In addition, traveling seems to low key be one of the biggest factors to why one would want to study abroad. The opportunity has presented itself and of course I’ll grab it will both hands! Europe is a blend of culture and art, a continent of majestic cathedrals and countless pebble-stoned plazas. I’ve had my fair share of hostels and Flixbus trips, which if you plan well in advance, can be a lot of fun despite the tight budget. Above all, I absolutely love how in Germany we get to use our student ID to get on the public transport for free within the state, which for me is the north Rhine-Westphalia area. Buses, trams, trains, all-you-can-travel!
Overall, I would say the biggest gift this exchange semester has given me is the sense of independence and freedom I’ve experienced. Everybody’s journey is personal and different, I think it’s how you make the most of it that really counts!