One of the Best Experiences of my Life

The ten weeks I spent at the Excellence Center in Europe this summer was really one of the best experiences of my life. I truly have never had a better summer. I took part in the Volunteer in Media & Journalism Program because I am a current student of journalism and German, and there isn't a better program out there that offers both valuable experience in media and language lessons as part of the same contract.
As someone who has always been kind of slow to open up to strangers, I was worried about coming here and feeling lonely or not making friends, but the emphasis the Center puts on building community and making everyone feel welcome and comfortable quickly made those worries go away. I have met people here that I am sure I will be friends with for the rest of my life, and I have gotten to know so many people from around the world that I never would've gotten the chance to meet otherwise.
The work I did here in media and journalism was fulfilling for me, both professionally and personally, and the freedom I was given to do the kind of writing and work I wanted to do was wonderful and empowering. I feel like I was able to grow so much here as a writer, worker, and friend.
Even if you have never left your home country before or think you might not be able to fit in here easily, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take the leap and come to the Excellence Center. It will unquestionably be one of the most memorable experiences of your life, and I promise you won't regret it.
I plan to return to visit the little family we have here as soon as possible, and I will miss the Center and the staff immensely.