Welcome, Adventurers!
Come and learn about the exciting life of an international student- from living with a host family over solo traveling to studying on Wall Street!
Hi, my name is Simon and I have something I want to tell you. It has been three days and three nights since I boarded four different planes, crossed three borders, and traveled an overall of 26 hours from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Bremen, Germany. Upon arrival, I found myself in emotional distress. This time, returning home did not just mean seeing my family for the first time in over 5 months. This time, I had booked a one-way flight.
In my two suitcases, my carry-on, and my backpack, I had effectively stowed away an entire existence- four and a half years of living in a country across the globe. On the one side, I was scared of my uncertain future in my home country (which felt uncomfortably foreign to me). On the other side, I was filled with joy and relief about receiving the degree I had worked so hard for and seeing my family again. I was experiencing a whole spectrum of emotions.
Currently stationed in my sister's room, a haven in my parents' house, I battle jetlag-induced insomnia, which is why I am writing this at the ungodly hour of 1:30 am. Amidst the sleepless haze, I began reflecting on my past journey and found that I collected many wonderful memories that paint a picture of adventure unlike anything else. And although my time in the States may be over, it has grown to become a part of my identity- which is why I want to share with you what it looks like to truly live in another country and another culture.
Over the last few years, I have shared my experiences in both German and English-speaking interviews for various communities. Last summer, I was booked for Epro360’s summer event, where I spoke in front of 100+ prospective exchange students and parents. Now, I want to take all of my priceless memories from my years abroad and bundle them up- for you.
So, if you consider doing an exchange, let this be your inspiration. If you just want to learn about life abroad, that’s perfectly fine as well! Come and join me as I reminisce about one year of high school and three years of college in the United States; living in four different states; traveling solo at a young age; and finding your spot although it sometimes might seem like there ain’t no space for anyone else.
Thanks for being here.
-Simon