Bonn

There are definitely certain things that I remember from my first trip to Germany, but somehow paying for water and the bathroom seem to have eluded me for the past seven years.  It's strange since I always drink so much water with meals and never even think twice about a refill because it's free--so I am thankful that I remembered to bring a water bottle and that the tap water is safe to drink!

I'll admit I was fairly worried about observing a surgery from within the operating theatre at the University clinics since human blood tends to make me a bit woozy.  I'm not sure why, but for some reason I react completely different to seeing animal vs human blood and was sure I'd hit the floor and embarrass myself so I was extremely surprised (and maybe a little proud of myself) when I wasn't ever overcome with the feeling that I needed to sit down or back away.  Observing coronary heart surgery was easily one of the neatest experiences I've ever had and honestly the doctor's inclusion of us and hands on teaching had me convincing myself that'd I'd really enjoy and do well in medical school.

In regards to my german language skills, I am trying to read and understand as much as possible but am still hesitant to talk.  I'll order in german and talk to the waiter, but perhaps a lack of extensive vocabulary keeps me from engaging in more conversation.  I know that two and half weeks is not near enough time to significantly improve my speaking, but I do a least hope to learn a little more and become more confident trying.

I'm not in Kansas anymore!

Wow I cannot believe I am actually in Germany. A day that I waited for months to come is finally here. Flying alone to a foreign country is honestly the most frightening thing I have ever done. I did not know what to expect as I did not know the other students.  Anything could happen in seventeen days were the thoughts that plagued my mind throughout the plane ride. Eating at an authentic German restaurant was a great way to end a long day of traveling and ease my nerves.   I'm glad to have tried new dishes as I'm trying to fully embrace the German culture.  However, this will probably be my first and last time to eat blood sausage.

Embarrassingly, I do not even own a bus card in America, but here it is second nature to hop onto a train in order to get to a destination. The mass use of public transportation is something I admire about Europe.  Due to the vast size of Texas it may be difficult to mimic such a successful transit system, but I wish we could cut down on the wasteful use of gasoline and single passenger travel.

It amazes me how everyone knows English and they do not find it disrespectful that I speak to them in my own language. In America we do not like to accommodate for foreigners, but here it is normal to have signs in translation or to be multilingual. I never thought I could learn so much in my short stay here. Tomorrow is Berlin, I'm ready for a new adventure!

Berlin's Not Ready!

This trip has been a roller coaster filled with exhaustment, but excitement! Arriving at Frankfurt was so exhilarating, and meeting the rest of the group just made it all that better. Needless to say, Germany has been absolutely outstanding.

Immersing myself into a culture and language was always on my list of things to accomplish, and I now realize how blessed we all are to be doing this together. Never before have I attempted to order food in German, or would I think to watch a classic German holiday film! Of course with my lack paying attention, I almost got lost the first night, or so I thought. As I was taking pictures of the restaurant on our night in Bonn, I realized I couldn't find anyone, even when I went searching inside the building. I asked the waiter if he spoke English, to which he replied no. I squirmed outside into another cafe, thinking I was in the wrong place. Five minutes later, I found the group in the back of the restaurant. Did I get butterflies? Yes. Will I handle that better next time? I hope so.

If there is anything that has surprised on me on this trip, it has been the history. Not necessarily the events that have taken place in the history of Germany, but how it has shaped and influenced the country into what it is today. I personally believe that Germany is one of the few, if not the only country, that has bounced back so quickly from some of its past horrendous events.  .

Köln is incredibly stunning. It is not everyday that you get to attend mass in the Cologne Cathedral! The fact that in Köln people view each other on the opposite side of the Rhine River in different ways interests me so much in how it correlates to the times of the Berlin Wall  (although the two cannot nearly be compared). The most eye opening aspect of our visit to the Köln was the Gestapo Prison. It is one of those indescribable feelings - to know that people suffered and were killed where you stood is humbling, and it forced me to count my blessings numerous times.

Visiting the Medical School in Bonn was outstanding! Although I have observed surgeries before, I had never seen them done on the throat. More interestingly was how similar the operating room was like in the United States. Obviously, science is the same, but I never realized how similar surgical culture was between any countries at all. (Although, I learned that Germany uses some anesthetics that the US doesn't!)

And off tomorrow we go to Berlin! I cannot wait to start another adventure 🚊

First Few Days

Coming to Bonn, I didn't know what to expect.  I was so nervous on the plane, and I was worried about fitting in with not only 10 new friends, but also an entire country. How do they eat? How do they act? What do they order at a restaurant? How do they walk on the street? The littlest things that I wouldn't give a second thought to in America finally became so important.

Ordering my first sandwich in the Frankfurt airport is one of the most frightening things I have done in a while. Constant thoughts flowing through my head. Does she think I'm stupid because I can't speak German? Am I being rude? I hope I am not offending her. It's so hard to know the boundaries and customs in a country you have never been to.

As we travel around, taking city tours, visiting museums, and even eating in local restaurants around Bonn, I have learned three lessons. One, it is important to try everything. Try the language, try the food, try seeing life as how a local would and take a walk in his or her shoes. Two, ask questions. Life is different here, in customs and in actions. Learn about everything you can, from traditions to history to even something small as how boys talk to girls.  Everything is just slightly different, and its interesting to know. Three, don't be scared. Take a risk, take a chance. This is a once in a life time opportunity, so I might as well use the next twelve days to soak in everything I can and live this time to its fullest.

For now, its Bon Voyage to Berlin.
See you kids at the Brandenburg Gate for New Years!

Day 4

Although I was so excited for this trip, I admit I got a little nervous on the way over. Being alone on the flight, getting no sleep, and adjusting to the time change while trying to navigate through a foreign airport didn't make me feel any better. As cheesy as it sounds, all my anxiety melted away as soon as I saw Olaf's familiar face and seconds later met up with the rest of the group. Having such a great person to lead us around who knows the area and friends to talk to in English, and maybe a little German, was a relief. 

Now four days have already flown by and I still feel like we just got here yesterday. Until I start to think about everything we have already done! Staying in Bonn has been lovely. Exploring the town, enjoying some German food and traditional holiday drink, and even watching a traditional new year's eve movie was the perfect way to start the trip. Not to mention learning some more German history at the museum with possibly one of the best tour guides ever!

Our day trip to Cologne was just as fun and interesting. The cathedral was gorgeous and since we visited on Sunday we had the unique opportunity to actually go to mass in the cathedral. And we didn't let a little rain ruin a walking tour which included some interesting history about the city itself. Our tour of the Elde Haus was a very sobering change of pace that really made me, and I think everyone else, focus not only on the terrible events that occurred but how it affected each individual. 

I can't finish this post without mentioning our last day in Bonn today where I got to stand in on two orthopedic surgeries. That was the first for me! We also had the great experience of visiting the Museum of the History of Anaesthesia. It was a treat, especially knowing we might be the last group of the program to do it.

I have enjoyed so much from this trip already and it keeps getting better. Tomorrow, on to Berlin!

On to Berlin!

As day 4 in Germany comes to an end, I can definitely say that I have learned a lot about its Roman and medical past. It has been a blast touring through Bonn and Köln and being able to take in all of its beauty. I have never been to Europe much less out of Texas so to me these cities are amazing. I really wish we would be able to stay longer or visit these cities again. Now I’m just looking forward to New Years in Berlin.

I can also say that I can order food and be able to survive in Germany. I’ve enjoyed trying the different foods such as döner (from the street and restaurant), currywursts, wurst croissants, Berliner (jelly doughnut), lift, chocolate, and kölsch. These foods are definitely different yet still taste very good.

Being able to experience mass at the Kölner Dom was a once in a lifetime experience. Although I did not understand most of what was being said, I still felt a connection to the church and the people in being able to take part in the event. There was also strong connection to the Gestapo Prison and the people who were once in there.

I am already looking forward to the next 12-13 days in Germany, the Czech Republic, and Austria.

Off to Berlin!

As our time comes to a close in Bonn, I'm disappointed that we are leaving so soon (even if it is for Berlin).  It seems strange that Bonn is technically a college town.  When Dr. Wasser mentioned it, I kind of pictured a city like College Station, but nothing is further from the truth.  In both Bonn and Koln, I love that there are older elements like churches and monuments that are hundreds of years old and fresh food markets in the square, as well as the modern elements. I especially enjoyed learning about the two thousand year old history preserved beneath Bonn and Koln.  I never considered the relationship between the Roman Empire’s and Germany’s history.  

I think the best part of the past few days has been walking through Koln (which is quite possibly my favorite city in Europe) and learning the history behind each element of the city.  We certainly covered a lot of ground; my pedometer said we hit almost 20,000 steps (about 10 miles)!  I only wish we could have stayed for a few extra days!

Now that we have seen what a smaller European city is like, it will be interesting to transfer to a city like Berlin.  I feel like culture shock is imminent with the New Year’s Eve party at the Brandenburg Gate tomorrow evening, but I’m excited to experience it!  

Let the good times roll in........Bonn and Koln!!!!

Over the past week I have been able to experience Germany for the very first time; while I have traveled all over Europe, I have never come upon a culture like theirs.  I would have to describe it as almost British.  Bonn and Koln are very old cities with pasts that are connected to the very memorable Romans, but the cities have adapted into a new city vibe with old city structures.  While it is something that I did not expect to come across it is still extremely pretty.  
Today, I was also able to experience a brain surgery for the very first time!!!! It is definitely the most memorable part of the trip as of yet.  I learned not only about the brain but also the background of the anesthesia that was used to keep the patient asleep.  
All though I have been having a great time here in Germany, I am now missing some of the comforts of home like my own bed (mostly because the bed that I have been sleeping in is not that comfortable even though the hotel is gorgeous), and food from my favorite places (Fuego and Jins…Yum).  
As I get ready to leave for Berlin tomorrow I know that I will encounter some of the coolest things tom row night for New Year’s Eve, but I am kind of worried that I will not have enough room for all of the stuff that I have bought in both Italia and Germany!!! Until next time let the good times roll!!!

Off to Deutschland... FINALLY!

It is entirely surreal to be here at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport in Terminal D getting to know my new friends who will accompany me to Germany! Ever since I was in seventh grade, I have learned and studied and gained a true appreciation for the German language and culture. My teachers Frau Peterson and Frau Boshier are both Germans who grew up in Germany (and were both one of a set of twins, actually) and are two of the greatest blessings in my life. By their example, I was inspired to pursue a greater world view and consider myself a world citizen. I have missed many opportunities to study abroad in Germany as a young person, and I know that this is the best timing for me to visit, as I am just about to graduate! I am so excited to put my knowledge of the German language to practice, to meet new German friends, and to finally visit the country that my mentors call home.

This study abroad program in particular sparked my interest because of its relevance in terms of today's healthcare climate. As a future healthcare practitioner, it is more important than ever to understand not only the world we live in, but also the logistics of how citizens receive healthcare and how it is funded. In addition to submersion in the German and Austrian culture, I hope to learn how Germany's healthcare system operates and how it compares to America's, in order to better understand the environment that I will work in in the future. I hope to interact with physicians in a professional environment and maybe gain some medical knowledge, too!

Finally, I am excited to learn about German history, in particular its history in terms of medicine. I hope to learn about German and Austrian pioneers in medicine and the series of important events that shaped the medical world and our ways of thinking about medicine today. I hope to get at least some glimpses of Nazi history in Germany in addition to the rise out of Nazism and fall of the wall. Finally, I hope to learn about current events in Germany, in particular how it relates to the rest of the world.

They are calling us soon to board the plane, my first international flight ever! I am thankful for this opportunity to finally visit and learn about people who live and work in a different country, as I have been looking forward to for a long time. Deutschland, ready or not, here I come!

Waiting at the Airport

As I write this, I am sitting at the DFW airport. I have just arrived from McAllen, TX and I am waiting for the ticket counters to open. So my adventure starts today. I just experience my first flight and I am about to experience my first sleep over at an airport. 

I still cannot mentally processes that I will be flying into Germany in only a few hours. When I arrived at College Station I had always planned on studying abroad. I just can't believe that it would be my second year in college. It was a little challenging for my parents to grasp the idea of me leaving the country when they barely let me leave the city, but I am happy I applied anyways.

I am really looking forward to learning a lot, not just from the class itself but, from the different culture and people. Right now my main worry is that I did not spend enough time trying to learn German. I hope that I can get by with what I know. The food is something I am also excited to try. Besides the language, I feel ready to arrive at Frankfurt and take it all in from the moment we step out of the airplane. 

Until then, I will sit here in the airport enjoying some Netflix and trying to cram in some more German phrases. 

Wait we leave tomorrow?

Sitting down now to write this post next to my half packed bag, I admit my preparations for this trip may be a little last minute. But between getting home from school, Christmas shopping, and getting my wisdom teeth removed, these last couple weeks have be hectic. Really this whole semester the idea of this trip never had time to sink in... For the first time in my life I will be traveling overseas!The idea still seems surreal to me.

Although I have trouble wrapping my head around it, I couldn't be more excited for this opportunity. Not counting a week my family spent in Mexico for vacation, I have never been outside of the U.S. With that being said, my family is currently hosting a couple visiting from the Ukraine. So although I lack experience abroad myself, I have been able to get a little cultural flavor right here at home. We even added a couple Ukrainian traditions to our Christmas! Meeting these lovely people and learning a little about their traditions has already given me a sneak peek to what being immersed in a culture completely different than ours will be like. I'm even more excited now, if that's even possible.

As well as experiencing new cultures and visiting new countries, I am excited to learn some history in such a great environment. We won't just be learning about medical history, we will be visiting universities, training centers and museums. It will also be interesting exploring countries with so much world history.

So while I may still be packing, I couldn't be more ready to experience as much as I possibly can. Bis bald Germany!

Return to Germany

It’s hard to believe that this summer will mark a full seven years since I’ve been in Germany.  I was last there the summer before my freshman year in high school with my mom and one of my best friends.  I actually bargained with my friend that if we took her to Germany with us she would take German with me in high school as our foreign language instead of Spanish—which we both agree was well worth it.  We have family friends who live in Bavaria and stayed with them for a couple of weeks, only traveling within the surrounding area so I am much more excited for this trip since we’ll be seeing a lot more.  I felt a little uncomfortable the first time since I didn’t know any German, but I’m now minoring in German language and can’t wait to be able to practice speaking outside of class.  I’m much more proficient in reading and writing, but I always felt that my speaking skills would more readily improve if I was actually placed in a situation where German is the spoken language. 

I love traveling and don’t really have any qualms about being away from my family, as I’ve been to Australia with People to People Ambassadors and attend college 1000 miles away from my hometown in Indiana.  I’ve been comparing our temperatures with those in Bonn and Berlin, and it’s much colder here—with a lot more snow—so unlike all of my classmates coming from Texas, I’ll be arriving to warmer weather in Germany.  I look forward to gaining a better understanding of the medical system and practices in Europe and starting the new year off right with my fellow Aggies abroad!

 
Ich wünsche euch fröhliche Weihnachten!

Go Boldly

           My iPhone app reads “2 Days Left,” and although I have checked it eagerly since October, the number is inconceivable. I am incredibly thankful for this opportunity to study abroad and can only imagine what this trip will hold. I hope for growth in many aspects, including my knowledge of German culture and medical history. The realization that we begin our journey across the Atlantic so soon is incredibly exciting and I am ready to jump into the unknown.

            My bags are still empty and my German vocabulary consists of “nein.” In so many ways I feel unprepared and yet I am perfectly fine with it. Ordinary semesters are filled with stress and structure, all-nighters in the library and memorization of chemical structures. I am more than ready to take a step back from the traditional classroom setting and absorb knowledge through my own experiences. The museums and medical facilities we will be visiting will provide a new way of learning that is unfamiliar to me. The free time will allow us to explore our own interests and get to know our fellow Ags a little better.

            As we embark on this trip, I need to encourage myself to be open to anything Europe may offer. Whether that be eating sauerkraut with every meal or taking an impromptu trip to a local market, I hope to leave nothing unseen nor regret not taking that extra step. After all, what other time in our lives will we have to be young and in Europe?  

Pre-Departure

We are now only two days away from departure to Europe, and I only get more excited as it draws nearer!  I am thrilled for our adventure to begin for several reasons.  For one, obviously, I look forward to exploring Europe.  My father is a pilot, and my family has been lucky enough to travel quite a bit throughout my life.  When I was ten, while in Germany, we climbed the steps of Der Kölner Dom in Köln and explored the Rhineland on bicycles (I don’t think I will repeat that particular experience during the winter, however).  Since then, I have always wanted to go back; because I was so young, I do not think I fully grasped the importance of that experience.    Having a greater appreciation for the culture differences and the historical value of the cities and sites we will be visiting, I think I will glean much more information from this trip. 

            Additionally, I love learning about different cultures and the histories I may never have experienced.  Specifically, I am looking forward to learning more about the Third Reich at Elde Haus.  I am very interested in World War II, but I have only ever studied WW II from the American perspective.  Also, during this trip, we often have a few hours to ourselves, or a free afternoon, and I am excited that we can tailor our free time to our specific interests.  For example, horseback riding is one of my favorite pastimes, and I hope to visit the Spanish Riding School in Vienna.

            Lastly, and most importantly, I am so looking forward to learning about the history of medicine in Europe, as well as gaining a better understanding of the European medical system.  I will be attending the UT Houston Medical School next August and appreciate the opportunity to expand my perspective of health care and widen my global view.  This particular study abroad gives us the opportunity to interact with medical professionals that we would likely not have had access to otherwise.

            I do not think I am really nervous about anything.  I am a fairly adventurous person, and since I have traveled to Europe without my parents before, I do not usually get homesick.  I suppose what I am worried about is once we get back to the United States.  I know we will all be suffering from jet lag, and since the semester begins the day after we get back, I am just hoping I will not be a zombie for class on Monday!

            Well, that’s all from me; Europe, here we come!