After the metro ride, I slowly go up and stare in awe at the Brandenburger Tor, shining with yellow lights in the evening. This is my first memory from my first moments on a spring study abroad in Berlin. Berlin is a city of contrasts, so different but also similar to New York City in various ways. Despite the cold weather, the city welcomed my new beginning at the intensive German language program.
As I hope to become a diplomat, I have wanted to go for a study abroad semester in a non-English speaking country since my first year at Vassar. Having intermediate knowledge of German, I wanted to improve my language skills and learn more about European politics at the heart of the continent. Despite my eagerness to spend a semester in Germany, I had no expectations from Berlin. Located in East Germany and divided by the Allies after the Second World War, the city has been filled with contradictory pro-European and Soviet spirits that would not let go of the city even in the 21st century. My imagination was not incorrect but it was of prejudice towards post-Communist spaces similar to my home.
After 1,5 months of intensive training at the Berlin Consortium for German Studies, I would start joining classes at Freie Universität and traveling more freely around Berlin and neighboring regions. My trips changed my perception of Germany and showed me that it is a diverse country with a rich history beyond the legacy of the Second World War. Aside from the war legacy, this country is full of beautiful parks and castles (if those remained after the war). But the biggest surprise for me was Berlin. Every district of Berlin is a distinctive region filled with its special character. Before, these districts really used to be separate cities, later uniting to form the only Berlin.
Aside from a good travel experience, I truly enjoyed meeting domestic and international students through university classes. The German education approach is entirely different from the American one. While attending courses taught in German and English, I saw how professors have another vision of the politics and history of the globe, which was refreshing to see after spending two and a half years in the USA. And what could be better than a good discussion with fellow students about the material after the class?
If you ever have a chance to come to Europe, I would recommend visiting Germany. In a country full of contradictions, you will find what you are looking for, be it entertainment, history, delicious cuisine, or nature.
-Karolina Naidon
