Best Experience of My College Career

Once I heard that I would be the only student studying abroad with EPA in Bonn, Germany, I was very nervous. When I think about those initial feelings of fear, I realize I never could have imagined the amount of growth I would experience in my 3 months in Bonn. The first week was an orientation and mini German brush up course. The first week was extremely memorable because of my experiences with Hartwig, the program director. He taught me some differences in culture between the U.S. and Germany that proved to be extremely valuable. My classes were some of the most valuable in my college career. I had one on one classes with my professors that were not only thorough but fun as well. I went on excursions to neighboring Belgium and The Netherlands, as well as a two week long trip in Berlin. My internship was with the German Ministry of Health in which I worked with two different departments. I learned practical work experience in the realm of Public Health Policy, and this helped me decide my future career goals. I did a home-stay, and developed a life changing relationship with my host mother. I grew up, grew independent and expanded my love for German and Germany.