Week 1 in Bonn!

Wow! Where to begin?  This first week in Bonn has been an absolute whirlwind.  I'm not quite sure what expectations I had going in to this, but our first week here has most certainly lived up to them.  Our group of 15 couldn't get any better.  I love how we all come from different majors and have different career goals and aspirations, but do have common interests and are able to explore Europe together.

On Saturday, we went to the Kolner Lichter in Cologne.  It was a blast! We went early in the day and explored the city a little.  I went inside the Cologne Cathedral, and it was beautiful.  It sort of reminded me of St. Chapelle in Paris.  They seemed to have the same basic structure, but the one in Cologne was built on a much grander scale.  Then, our whole group met up and watched the fireworks on the Rhein River!  We had such a great time.  It was interesting to see how the celebration was both similar and different from some of the festivals I've been to in the States.

Then our bike ride, 42 kilometers down and back up the river.  It was quite a bit of riding, but I truly enjoyed it.  The scenery was beautiful and the weather was enjoyable.  Sitting on our blanket taking in the scenery at our picnic pretty much summed up a near perfect day, although the ride back seemed a little further than the first half!

Overall, I have enjoyed my first week in Bonn more than I ever could have imagined.  I am getting to know my host family better, and I am starting to learn more about their past and lives here in Germany. Both of my host parents are from east Germany, and came to Bonn after the Berlin Wall fell.  Listening to their stories about growing up in east Germany versus west Germany is interesting as well.  I'm very excited about the rest of the week here in Bonn, and then going to Interlaken, Switzerland this weekend!

Week 1 - Unity and Justice and Freedom!

I can't believe our first week in Germany has already came and went, all be it a short week, but we did leave Texas a week ago tomorrow. These first few days being fully immersed in a new and different culture has really been an eye opener to many great differences. The Germans are not forced to recycle, but everywhere I've been all residents work together to recycle by separating their rubbish into different recyclable containers. Granted there is reward for recycling plastic and glass bottles, .25 and .08 euros for each. Public transportation is much more efficient and a great majority of the population use bicycles for transportation. You have to pay up to as much as 1 euro to use the bathroom in public areas. Most of the Germans enjoy carbonated water...I don't understand this one at all, why not drink a soda if you're going to something with carbonation? Their healthcare system shares great positives and some negatives when compared to our system.

The difference that hit me the hardest, because it's something I have never thought about is that Germans cannot have the same kind of pride in their country as Americans can have in their country. Americans have been lucky when it comes to global predicaments in that we have always, for the most part, been on the right side of the coin. We have been looked on as a global force for good, and have always come into great conflicts to eliminate oppression and ruthless leaders. The German history is forever scarred by the events of the Second World War while under the rule of the third reich and Hitler. This devastating part of their history has limited the extent to how much pride they can have in their country so much as to not being able to sing verses in their national anthem due to the meaning implied during the war.

On a different subject, I am a big food fan and all of the wurst and schnitzel is amazing. The beer is good too! My host mother is an amazing cook and even though I don’t understand everything that I am eating she helps explain it to me. I have always enjoyed fresh fruit and all of the open air markets here have an outstanding array of delicious fruits. I have been told the currywurst is sehr gut by many people but I have yet to try it. Also, Olivia showed us to the 50 cent pizza shop which is a nice cheaper option when compared to much of Bonn. I want to save a lot of the traveling experiences for another blog, so tschus!

Week 1

It’s only been a couple days and I feel like I’ve already experienced so much here in Bonn. Life with my host family has begun to feel more comfortable as I have started getting into a routine with them; I have the bus system figured out and feel like I have gone through the initial cultural shock.  I was a little apprehensive before our first official day in the program but it couldn’t have gone better. We had our introductory meeting followed by my new go-to lunch of 50-cent pizza and a tour of the city. In the afternoon I had my first Kolsch at the beautiful biergarten on the Rhine and we spent the night “exploring” (getting lost) walking around the city. Friday was our first day of class and I found Dr. Wasser’s lecture really interesting. I have always been insecure in my knowledge of the healthcare system in America and still know that there is a lot that I don’t know about it, but it was nice to have an overview of other healthcare models then see how they are integrated into the US model. It is a hot issue and will continue to be, so I would like to be as informed as possible. The weekend was nice as I spent my time in Cologne on Saturday walking around and watching the Kolner Lichter. Sunday’s 42-kilometer bike ride was an adventure to say the least but the scenery was beautiful and the weather was really nice.

As I go into this week I am excited to start German classes as well as visit Cologne again and tour the cathedral and the Gestapo prison. As I look around this beautiful city, I can’t quite wrap my mind around the history that has happened here. I am so thankful for this opportunity to study abroad already and I still have so much time left!

First week in Bonn

I have had a fantastic first few days in Bonn. My host family is really easygoing and nice, plus they have made me some delicious German food. Although we have only had one class so far, it was really interesting and informative. As a future Biomedical professional, it will be important to know the healthcare laws and policies across the world as well as the changing laws within the U.S. All the healthcare systems that we studied had their own benefits and flaws, and not every group of people will be satisfied in any system.  is interesting to know that only in the U.S do health insurance companies operate for profits, which is also good and bad. In a free market economy, the competition drives down prices of health insurance, but at the same time, the companies are only looking to make profits, so insurance companies try to charge the most amount of money for the least amount of care. At least in the U.S everyone has the freedom to choose a new healthcare plan if they so choose, but most don’t have the money to do so. I am a big fan of the freedom afforded to Americans in choosing a healthcare plan but as the U.S lags behind most other industrialized nations in statistics like the number of infant deaths while the U.S pays more per capita than other countries. So, the U.S healthcare system needs some changes and it will be interesting to see which healthcare model the U.S resembles after the Affordable Care Act goes into effect.

I also had a great time at the Kolner Lichter in Cologne. The fireworks show was very cool and it was a lot of fun hanging out on the grass by the Rhine. We also checked out the Cologne cathedral and it was breathtaking. We only walked around the cathedral for a few minutes so I’m looking forward to going back later this week and learning more about the cathedral. Bonn has been a lot of fun too. The people have all been very nice and the weather has been amazing. It’s a nice break from the heat in Texas. 

The People We've Met

On our first class lecture, we leared about the comparisons of heathcare in the United States and various countries in Europe such as England and Germany. When I came back home, I was quizzed about what I'd learned in class. It was neat becasue I haven't had someone ask what I learned in school in several years. I've alreay had some pretty remarkable adventures so far, but the most memorable things are the people I have met along the way. On our third night here, I got back too late to the central train station to ride the tram which was the best way I actually knew how to get home, so I was pretty lost and had no idea how to choose the right bus or where exactly to get off. I guessed and asked a nice lady on the bus for some help. She wasn't able to understand most of what I was asking, but the young couple next to me began speaking to me in a very awesome accented english. They were from New Zealand and we were luky enough to have the same stop. So I got off with them and they were generous with their time and wakled me halfway home until the wife was certain I could make it the rest of the way. She was cute and worried even with me and her husband both trying to convince her that I was going to be okay for the rest of the way. One afternoon after going to a nearby German Catholic church, I rode the tram to the central station and ended up sitting accoss from an Irish couple. They spoke, yet again, another aweome version of English. The husband reminded me of a friendly version of Harry Potter's uncle from the movie, and the wife was very sweet and talkative. We spent the entire tram ride talking about our families and our trips in the states and Europe. Dublin is now on my buket list of places to visit. Then there was the group of guys singing american bluegrass/folk songs and some Mumford and Sons songs. They were awesome because I got to request one of my favroite songs that they also knew and we all got to sing along.

First Week

We've been in Germany for almost a week now! I don't really know how I feel about that. On one hand, it seems everything is moving so fast, that time is flying by. Yet on the other, I feel so comfortable here I can't believe it has only been a few days since our plane landed. I was expecting to be blown away by the scenery but I still seemed to have underestimated it. Everything is so green and lovely. And the history is evident in the architecture. Very different than Texas. 

My host family is absolutely wonderful. It's just me, my mom, and sister (she's 21). They have been very friendly and helpful. We also have a dog, named Mali, who is a total sweetheart. I've thoroughly enjoyed all the activities so far. Wednesday, I had dinner with my host family, after a long day of travel. Thursday, we had our welcome meeting and went on a tour of the city, which included 0,50 € pizza! Friday, we got up early to explore Bonn, specifically the beautiful cathedral.We also had class for the first time. While class was really interesting, it also made me realize how ignorant I am. It seems like there are some ways that the American system of health care can be improved, but actually implementing those changes could be very difficult. Saturday, we went to a German baseball game and then to Cologne, for Kölner Lichter. Sunday, we went on the bike tour. The scenery was great but I was relieved to take the train back to Bonn. Then I had dinner with my host family and a few of their friends. 

Overall, Germany has been incredible so far. I love the system of public transportation, which makes it very convenient to get around. Everyone I've met has been friendly and helpful. I'm really looking forward to learning more German and just spending more time here!

First Days in Germany

We have been in Germany almost a week, and I already want to stay here indefinitely. The first wonderful thing we encountered after a very long plane ride was the weather, which is such a nice break from the Texas heat. I have also enjoyed the local flora. Everything seems so much greener and there are so many more beautiful plants and flowers that I could never hope to keep alive back home. The people here have been great. Even just walking around Bonn we had a nice old man explain the plaque next to the cathedral and its history to us as he was passing by.

I love my host family. They have a nice wooden house with a yard, and we eat dinner as a family most days at a table in the middle of the grass. All of the food we have had so far has been delicious and generally very healthy. The sweets also don’t seem to have as much sugar as in the U.S. I introduced my host family to Dr. Pepper yesterday and they didn’t like it-they called it marzipan soda because they thought it was too sweet. Some other observations I have made are that no shoes are worn in the house. There is a large collection of shoes that live on the back porch and by the front door. Also everything seems more efficient here, especially in regards to waste management. My host family has two cats, three mice, and a horse that I have been enjoying. It has been very nice to interact with something completely familiar and without a language barrier to consider.

I learned very quickly to ask for tap water to avoid sparkling water. For as efficient and practical as everything seems to be here I can’t quite reason through the sparkling water. On the other hand, the public transportation system is fantastic. I like riding the bus and being able to sit down and read a book on the way to and from the city. I am glad that English is largely spoken, but I can’t wait to start learning German! 

Ich spreche Deutsches wenig (Week 1)

     As the first few days have come and past, I have diligently tried to speak more and more German! Yesterday I spoke my first full conversation with a fellow German student worker at the university I am studying at:

Me: Hallo Yonick!
Yonick: Hallo Wilson!
Me: Wie geht es dir?
Yonick: gut, und dir?
Me: sehr gut, danke!

     In retrospect, this was obviously not too intricate of a conversation, but the amount of times I have had this exact conversation in America is beyond countless. Hopefully this is also just as common of a greeting conversation in Germany!
     As I have journeyed through the cities of Brühl and Bonn, I have found Germany to be very conservational in its natural resources. Until now, I never completely understood the immensely wasteful lifestyle that always seemed satirical about the American culture. The water in toilets is about 1/5 to 1/6 the amount, no one drives ridiculously fuel inefficient cars (including trucks, haven’t seen one here), and the lights in my host-home are essentially timers that will automatically turn off in a couple minutes so there is no way to leave the lights on (I have seen this in a lot of other buildings). While these just a few examples, this is something that’s significantly different from in America. When I visited China a couple years back I thought that the conservational nature of the country was because it was still a developing country, but this evidence in Germany debunks that theory.
     Another cultural situation I have learned about is a conflicting situation regarding the Turkish immigrants and the indigenous Germans. I found this remarkably interesting because there is also much conflict with the Turks in my father’s hometown in China. In both locations, the conflict essentially boils down to the fact that the immigrated Turkish populations not only do not try but also rebel against assimilating to the native culture of the indigenous population. However, this conflict is not as prominent as it was in the past, the Turks in Germany now are at about their 3rd or 4th generation and most of them simply don’t care for upholding their ancestral traditions and beliefs (I.e. Islam). In a current, optimistic, perspective, the immigration of the Turks brought great tasting inexpensive food to Germany, which has essentially assimilated these foods, such as dönner, into their local culture!

Week 1 - Accomplished

It feels like it was yesterday that I was sitting at home on my computer passing by the time. Now, I'm in Germany trying to avoid being cooped up in my room. The first day we arrived at the airport was rough, I made the mistake of not sleeping on any flight on the way over. Therefore, I practically had a full day still ahead of me. I was tired enough that I didn't even have dinner with my host family, which probably made them think I hated them. However, we made up for lost time the next day at breakfast and all was well again.  I'm very happy with my host family, it's a family of six, but it feels like a family of ten. Every day I've met a new person at the house eating with me, it's very disconcerting to wake up and have breakfast with a complete stranger.  However, I've noticed that most Germans are very nice and easy to get along with and therefore don't stay strangers for very long. The good thing now is that I think I've met everyone who's going to be eating with me randomly, it turns out that they were my host brothers' girlfriends. 

I'm glad to report that I have not gotten lost yet. My host mom was so keen on preventing me from getting lost that on the first day out she printed me off step-by-step instructions on how to get from home to the AIB and back. It was funny, on that same day I got back she was so proud of me that I didn't get lost like the other students she had hosted before. I'm even proud of myself a little bit because I felt like I know it like the back of my hand already...even if I was checking the bus route at every stop to make sure I was going the correct way. After this one week though I know exactly where everything is buses, night buses, train station, tram station, and subway. Even better is the fact that I also know exactly which number and direction to go. Next on my list is to have the times everything arrives and departs at memorized. 

We have really only had two classes in which we learned about the four major health care models. Therefore, it can be argued that we haven't gotten into the real meat of the history of medicine in Europe yet. Except, I think it was only the introduction into the course and this next week will be when we dive into the history part. Also, this week we start our German lessons. As of now, I've only learned things that my host brothers, Mira, and Olivia have taught me. It's kind of pathetic that I can't even order properly at a restaurant, or even count past ten for that matter. It makes you feel worse than a kindergartener, like a little baby that can't talk to people.

This weekend was very fun, we went to Koln Saturday and Remagen Sunday. In Koln, we got there early to wander around for a few hours before the fireworks show. We took a peak inside the massive Cathedral, walked down the bridge with the hundreds of love locks, walked through a few shops, and just enjoyed each others company on a grass field with other locals. The fireworks show was a completely different animal; thousands of Germans showed up to view the show and all the crazy people seem to start popping up. Despite all that it was still an insightful experience and a lasting memory into one of the German traditions. I asked Olivia why they had the show, but she said there wasn't a real reason. They just shoot them off because they can I guess. Sunday was a little more up and down, literally, we went for a forty-two kilometer bike ride from Bonn to Remagen. For the most part it was fairly flat, but those occasional slopes were a pain in my backside. Speaking of which is probably bruise from the rock hard seat the bikes were sporting. All in all it was a fun ride and a beautiful day to take it. Everything I've done so far has been great and exciting. I'm happy I applied and was accept to come on this program.

On a sadder note, my host parents have all officially left for work now. My host dad left two days ago to film a documentary of a group of volunteer doctors going to Africa to treat impoverished children, while I'm not entirely sure were my host mom went. It's a little sad and exciting though, because now it's just the "kids" at the house and we get to be like typical college students and young people. Tonight was our first dinner without them and we sat outside talking and laughing with each other for a nice two hours or so. All the girls from the week were there and another study abroad student, from a different program was also, it was a very pleasant dinner, unlike the fast food dinners we get in college station. 

First Week in Germany

     I have been in Germany exactly a week today, and I seriously feel as though I have already learned and grown so much as a person within this short period of time. From learning the most basic of German phrases, to figuring out the transit system, to learning where to go within the city of Bonn itself, it has been an interesting but rewarding week in many different ways. Luckily I don't have any horror stories of anything that has gone terribly wrong, and I sincerely hope it will stay that way! My host mom and family are very nice and even though it's usually only my host mom and I who eat together, she is always great to talk to and makes me laugh a lot during our conversations. I told everybody on the first day of class, but when she doesn't understand something I am saying she pulls out her "English-Dutcsh Dictionary" and translates the word accordingly. It definitely makes for a very entertaining and interesting meal/conversation. She is actually from Russia, but has lived in Germany over 20 years, so she has made both types of food. This has been a delight for me because I love trying new foods. I actually have not had any food so far in Germany that I haven't liked, including her meals, and I look forward to trying new things as the program continues. One of my new favorite foods actually is a result of my host mom's breakfast. We usually have cold cuts and bread and then she puts out both Nutella and johanessberry jam. Nutella is always good of course, but I wanted to try something new with johanessberry jam (according to the "English-Dutcsh Dictionary," a johanessberry is just a red currant in America). I have never had this before though, and upon trying it and discovering it's deliciousness, I now eat it every morning with some toast.
     There are many interesting differences that I have noticed so far in comparing the United States to Germany, and it has honestly made me realize that the United States could learn and benefit a lot if people were willing to make some simple changes in their lives. I won't go into all of the major differences right now, but just one that is plainly obvious. There are only two types of cars in Germany: small and smaller. Along with this, almost all of the streets are very narrow in addition to cars being parked all along them. It is quite frightening when experiencing this on a bus or in a car for the first time, but you realize that they have an efficient system of getting around with little available space. The little cars also contribute to higher gas efficiency and less pollution overall. Gas is cheaper in America comparatively, but there is no need to have the amount of big "gas-guzzling" trucks and SUV's that we do. They are unnecessary in most cases and create a ton of pollution. The United States has worked on this, but we could still do a better job.
     In regards to our one day of actual class, we had a very interesting and worthwhile lecture comparing different healthcare systems in the world. Unlike before the class, I can now say that I feel informed about not only the United States health care system and it's possible reforms, but also the systems of most other countries around the world. There are obviously pros and cons to all systems (some more than others), but the main point that I took away from the lecture is that the countries that have true universal healthcare are a result of all working citizens paying high taxes. In America, where most people believe that we already pay high taxes, people would never be willing to raise taxes as much as it would take to achieve universal healthcare. Therefore for the time being, not all people will have insurance in the US and either they or everyone else who has to pay for them will suffer as a result.

First Week in Deutschland!

So, we did it! We survived the first days in Bonn without any injury or very many people getting lost! 

      So, First of all let’s start with during the week activities. This week was a handful. In fact, I write this with my head lying on my arm as so not to waist the energy to lift it. Let’s start with Wednesday, frankly if I could describe this day all I could use is the word "LONG". I was very excited arriving in Bonn and I tried to stay awake the entire trip on the bus so I would not miss the legendary German countryside. Needless to say I failed at that attempt. The bus ride was long and hard. I saw the 100 km/hr. sign and wished that meant 100 MPH. To top it off I then had to pick myself up from that and act jovial for my new family to some avail. Thursday we got our first glimpse of the great city of Bonn. This was mainly an administrative day but it finished with 50 cent pizza, a tour from Olivia and a trip to the beer garden where I had my first beer "Pils". Friday we got our first taste of class in Germany. I have to say that I really like the Bismarck model of healthcare and hope to take that with me into office. I will have to say the other models were a bit bland and uninviting. However, when we split for lunch I explored the university and found lunch at an ice cream shop called "la dolce" I believe. My favorite part of the school day was the historical city tour by Mr. Zack. He was very funny and informative. When he asked for questions everyone was silent. He answered everything you could ever ask just in his original speech. Finally we topped off the day with a party at Old AIB where I made many new friends. I even met a new econ major who works for AIB; he was very fun converse with about economic topics. This weekend I skipped the fireworks and went on the 26km bikeride................................................................................. It was long..... When we got there I was ready to hop on the train to go back to get free water at home. If there are two things I have learned in Germany, 1. Never pay for the bathroom, 2. Never pay for water! Best of wishes to all.... now I think I am going to enjoy a nice long sleep. 

Pre-Departure

     Here I am sitting in the airport, waiting for my flight to Frankfurt, and I could not be more excited.  I have always wanted to study abroad, and spend expended amounts of time in other countries. I have always loved traveling and experiencing new cultures. The History of Medicine program is perfect for me. I get to live with a German family, partake in German culture, and travel to many interesting cities, monuments, and historical sites.
     I did not do much to prepare. I packed, bought some necessary items, and talk to a friend of mine who went through the spring semester program.  I expect to become close friends with the other students as well as the faculty, and I expect to have a memorable experience that will last me a lifetime.

Pre departure thoughts!

Howdy,

            Nine days ago today Shannon McCloskey and I left to backpack through London, Paris, and Dublin before we started our actual program. I had never been to Europe before and I had so many emotions running through me before I left. Everyone stressed to me to be careful, always be aware of your surroundings, and of course don't get taken. I was a little nervous from hearing all of these worries from all of my friends and family, but actually being over in Europe has been a lifetime experience so far.

           Now it is the night before I depart on my journey to Germany and I have no worries at all. I cannot wait to make lifetime bonds with all of the wonderful people that are studying abroad with me and I am so excited to be able to experience Germany. One of the things I am most excited to learn about is the history of Germany and all the milestones they have had to overcome these past hundreds of years. I also am excited to be able to learn the German language and hopefully be able to speak it at the end of the summer.

           I am also excited for the many trips on the weekends that we have planned out. I cannot wait to learn a little about each of these different countries cultures over the short period of time that I have there. Finally the thing I am most excited for is to be able to spend my 21st birthday in Europe, somewhere that I have always dreamed of going. I cannot wait to see everyone tomorrow and to start this adventure that I have been so excited for all summer! Lets do this!

Pre-Germany Program Thoughts

Howdy!
The past 7 days have been an absolute whirlwind.  With all the hustle and bustle, I am just now having the chance to write this post!  I've been in Europe for about a week now with Jessica Bailey.  We've been to London, Paris, and now Dublin.  I have absolutely loved the experience, but it has been exhausting.  I can already see some of the homesickness starting to creep in! I have had a great time this week, but am ready to be in Germany, meet my host family, and settle into a slight routine.  My thoughts leading up to the trip were mixed.  I am ecstatic about the opportunity to see and do all the things we are going to have the opportunity to do, but am worried about missing my family and others at home.
Throughout the next six weeks in Germany, I am hoping to learn a lot.  I am excited about connecting with my host family and learning more about daily life abroad.  I think the course itself will also prove to be incredibly interesting.  I am looking forward to forming friendships with the other people in our group, learning about their interests and how they can enhance my experience abroad.  Hopefully, we'll all stay friends when we get back to College Station!  I can't wait to see you all tomorrow and get this adventure started!

Pre-Departure Post / Last Minute Thoughts

I cannot believe that I will be on a plane in less than 24 hrs, ready to embark on this adventure.  It still feels so surreal. But I am extremely excited, albeit a little nervous too. I think most of my nervousness stems from never experiencing any sort of over seas travel before. That and the fact that I know, despite any attempts I've made at planning, that I will probably forget to pack something important. Oh well...

I have actually been living out of a suitcase for the first part of my summer (I was working in Houston) so at least I have some experience in that area. I came back to my home of San Antonio for a week to regroup and pack for this trip. I sort of took over the tv room, laying out clothes and trying to figure out what was a necessity and what could be left behind. While I know my parents will miss me, I think they'll also be a little relieved to have the crazy mess finally packed away. 

I knew when I started college that I wanted to study abroad. But, I didn't just want to take a vacation, I wanted to truly learn about things relevant to my future career. So when I found out about the History of Medicine program, I was intrigued to learn more about the medical field in Europe. I am also very excited to be immersed in the culture. My grandmother is thrilled that I'm going to Germany, as she still has relatives that live there. There are so many aspects of this program that I'm looking forward to that I can't even begin to list them. I'm just ready to be in Germany!

The Last Night at Home

A little over a week ago, I returned from a mission trip to the Navajo Reservation in Arizona and New Mexico. Our church broke up into teams to go work in various places throughout the community. My team volunteered with the one veterinary clinic that serves most if not the entire reservation. It was a very unique experience to learn how their one veterinarian handles the care of all of the animals on the reservation; it is definitely not a job for profit. These three weeks will be an outstanding comparison of the lifestyles of three very different places. One week in the Navajo nation, to a week of travel preparations back home in College station, and then 5 weeks in Germany. I do not really know what to expect in Germany although I predict that it may be more similar to home than the Navajo Nation was. I am very excited and relieved to have a family to help me through the first adjustments to life in Germany. 

Traveling to Germany is such a new concept and experience that I really do not have many set expectations. It is, perhaps, a bit disconcerting but exiting at the same time to not have a solid idea of what I might find there. I do know that I want to come home at the end of the summer with a beginning step to learning the language since it has always been a goal of mine. I am sure that the long quiet hours on the plane to Germany will give me plenty of time to come up with a few more expectations and goals. The ride over will certainly be a nice break from the rush of packing. 

Throughout the summer, I began the necessary preparations for travel, including packing and several trips to the bank and phone companies. The time has now been whittled away to these last moments at home before the excitement and anticipation of tomorrow’s departure. Gute Nacht!

Germany: Pre-Departure

The time is finally here. After a summer of anticipation, I finally leave for Germany tomorrow. I started packing last night and after much squeezing and compacting I was pleasantly surprised to have fit everything into one bag. Now I am sitting down to cross off the last item of my checklist, which is starting this blog.  I am incredibly excited to start my travels tomorrow and I am so anxious I think I may not be able to sleep. This is not my first time overseas. A few summers ago I traveled to Italy with my family to visit my sister after her study abroad finished in Florence. I had such a great time viewing the art and architecture and eating the fantastic Italian food that I decided that I had to study abroad when I came to college. I’ve always wanted to see Germany and the history of medicine course sounds incredibly interesting so I decided this study abroad program was the one for me.

            There are plenty of things I want to experience and see during my travels abroad. I am excited to see some of the architecture in Germany specifically the cathedral in Cologne.  I want to drink a beer in Munich and do some hiking in the black forest. I am always fascinated by histories of foreign countries so I am looking forward to learning about Germany’s past. I am hoping to come back from my trip a more cultured and well-rounded person as I feel the travel is a fantastic education. So, to everyone still in the states this summer, Auf Wiedersehen and to my classmates for the next six weeks, bis bald!

Auf Wiedersehen Amerika, Hallo Deutschland!!!

Tomorrow is the big day. Tomorrow is the day I've been excited about for many months! TOMORROW is the day I leave the land stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic and embark on a five week adventure in Germany and the surrounding European countries!!!! As I sit behind my laptop in the safe confines of my home watching Monday Night Baseball on ESPN, the excitement of what awaits for me upon my arrival in Deutschland is starting to become overwhelming. I can start to envision the Rhine river, the university in Bonn, the never-ending weiner schnitzel, the sauerkraut and of course the massive glasses filled with German beer! The only obstacles left in between me and this paradise is a two hour drive to DFW and a ten hour flight to Frankfurt.
As a Pre-med student and biomedical engineer, I look forward to the academic aspect of the study abroad just as much as I do for our free weekends in the different parts of Germany, Amsterdam and Rome! I'm ecstatic to learn more about Germany's health system as the United States healthcare system is undergoing its' own reformation. I chose this particular study abroad program for three reasons: the program is based in Germany where a some of my ancestors are from, the program is titled History of Medicine and I think every doctor needs to be exposed to the methods and procedures of medical practice in past centuries, and finally for the central location and ease of access to most of Europe from Germany!

This is all I can think of blogging about for now, but there will be plenty more to come as I document this five week adventure! Before I publish the post so I can go finish packing, I will leave you with what I've been thinking of for many months: auf wiedersehen Amerika, hallo Deutschland!!

Pre-Program

     With the start of the summer, I was initially planning on sitting around at home and maybe getting a mundane job or something of the sort, essentially the epitome of the anecdotes that people are not too proud to recount when the infamous question of "what'd you do this summer?" is inevitably asked. Being as bored as I was, I actually checked my TAMU email in the middle of the summer and came across Dr. Wasser's email. I then looked up the legal age of drinking in Germany several articles about the vast amount of historical influences that the German culture had upon the development of medicine as we know it today. As a pre-med student and a working EMT at Texas A&M University, I'm very curious as to how things came to be and am greatly interested in the evolution of the career that my sole aspiration is to pursue; it was this very pursuit of knowledge that led to my commitment to pleading and persuading my parents to fund this experience.

     My preparations for this study abroad have been primarily focused on learning the native language. Utilizing the free trial lessons of Rosetta Stone and random homemade video lessons on YouTube, I am able to speak in conversation with 0 fluency. I have now realized that to properly learn a language I must immerse myself not only in the logistics of the language, but also the cultural, environmental and societal context that it is enveloped in. Therefore, one of my major expectations for this study abroad is to greatly forward my ability to speak German.  On a less practical note, part of my preparations have also been in researching the modern day attire that German men wear. I've been told by many, "dress like a tourist and you will be treated accordingly." After extensively putting my Google skills to good use, I discovered the only major difference to be a pea of a coat. 

     All in all, my major pursuit during this study abroad will be the discovery of new knowledge and experiences. I am not only expecting, but exceptionally excited for this opportunity to provide an elucidating breit outlook to enlighten my global perspective.

Pre-Departure Thoughts

Even with all of the planning and pondering I've done, I still can't believe that in a little more than two days we will be five thousand miles and worlds away from College Station, Texas. When I first left Austin for this little town on the Brazos three years ago I thought it could never compare to the wonderful city I was so blessed to call home, but after just a short time it grew on me and I have come to love our little college town. I can remember sitting at fish camp listening to someone speak on their study abroad experience in Italy, saying "We are so excited that you are here- now we want you to go away!" I thought certainly not, I've finally settled into this new place and I will just stay put. But you can only pass up so many opportunities. When the study abroad bug got to me, first it was just a week in Costa Rica but with vet school fast approaching I figured go big or go home.

I chose this particular study abroad experience originally because my best friend Alexis couldn't stop talking about the incredible adventures she had in Germany on her study abroad trip. Furthermore, I have a great love of music, art,  photography, and architecture, especially the great cathedrals. I love exploring new horizons, meeting new people, experiencing new cultures. As a biomedical sciences major with a business minor, my classes aren't set up for my inner artist and travel guru. What better place to experience new experiences than Germany.

I have never been to Europe, and I am not sure what to expect. I am hoping to grow as a person on this new adventure-to learn a little German, experience a little history, explore some new places. I am nervous about leaving my horses, friends, job, and the familiarity of College Station behind. On the flip side, I am excited to meet my host family and get to know everyone in our group better. Now that I have everything packed and ready for departure, I can't wait to hop on that plane and get this adventure under way! See y'all soon!

Pre-Germany Post

     As the days get closer and closer to my departure date, my emotions and expectations are ever-changing. My anticipation to meet my host family and new living quarters are constantly growing. This will be my first time in Europe and I am really not sure what to expect. I have heard different accounts from friends and family about the culture differences but I feel it is really hard to actually grasp these differences without experiencing them for myself. My feeling of anticipation is also coupled with excitement. I am very excited to learn about Germany and just simply live in a country that is extremely foreign to me and like nothing else I have experienced. At the very least I am excited to be somewhere where the highs are in the 70s instead of the highs of 100 or more that has been melting the state of Texas for the past month!
     The biggest reason I chose to participate in this program is experience a country and culture that was totally foreign to me. I have always been interested in the history of Germany and it is going to be an awesome experience to experience the country first hand. I feel like this is an experience that I will take with me for the rest of my life and it is an opportunity that I likely will not get to experience often. With only two days left until my departure, I am just ready to get there and hopefully many of my unanswered questions and feelings of anticipation will disappear. Germany here I come!

Pre-program Post

       With all the planning and packing and constant going that I’ve been in the middle of for the past month, I am just now sitting down to write this “pre-program” post although it is not a “pre-Europe” post for me. I have been in Europe for a full week now: first London for 5 days and now in Paris until I meet up with you guys at the Frankfurt airport. This is my first time in Europe so I had no idea what to expect going into it. I’ve been travelling with my parents for the past week so that has definitely made it easier to figure out the basics as I’m not doing it all on my own. I am, however, ready to jump out of the nest and try out my independent traveler wings.

       I’m excited to see more of the history and culture of this part of the world that I have never experienced before. I’m excited to meet people and learn and grow. But I am apprehensive about a lot of it. For one, it’s a long time away from familiarity and with the host family experience added on top of that, I just hope it all goes smoothly. Most likely it won’t, but that’s all part of the learning and growing, right?

       Hope you all are getting ready if you’re not already here! It’s definitely going to be a summer to remember!

Goodbye America

      The time has come to depart the all so familiar steamingly humid and unbearbly hot Texas for the cooler and very unfamiliar Germany. It seems wrong leaving America to go to another country right after celebrating the Fourth of July, but I couldn't be more excited to do it. I have always known that I wanted to study abroad upon coming to Texas A&M, but actually presented the idea of going to Germany to my parents as a sort of joke. Surprised when they said that they would proabably be willing to let me go, with a little more convincing and upon them talking to some family friends who have let their kids study abroad, they graciously agreed for me to go. They even saw it as an opportunity for a family vacation, so we (Dad, Mom, sister, and I) are going to Germany a few days early so that they can experience it themselves.
      For the past few weeks or so I have been asked the same question by numerous people: "Are you excited, nervous, or both?" I have responded the same way for each person, saying that I am extremely excited and not really that nervous. Whether it is true that I am not very nervous or that I am just trying to act like it I don't know. The whole idea of me actually studying abroad is still surreal. What I do know though is that I have talked to many different people who have studied abroad and people who are currently doing it right now, and they have all told me that it absolutely will be one of the best experiences that I will ever have.
     As for expectations, I defintely think and hope that there will be a pretty big culture shock. One of the main reasons I (or anyone) studies abroad is to experience other cultures. . I feel that I personally take a lot for granted in America, and although Germany is not like going to a third world country or even close, I think that seeing differences between cultures and learning about it's history will help me to not necessary appreciate American more but at least see it from a different view. Overall, I have no doubt this trip is going to be extremely rewarding and I can't wait to grow as a person because of it.

my mosh pit of feelings

For the past two weeks, since I had found out about this assignment, I have been putting it off for the moment when I felt I could properly express my feelings and thoughts going into this trip. Alas I am at the departure gate here in  Houston and still have no wise insight into any of that.... two weeks ago I only felt excitement and joy at the prospect of this while working at camp Ozark, now I feel a sense of apprehension and anxiety, two feelings that I am not so accustomed to. It is not because of the studies to come or even the trip but more of my lack of knowing what the heck is gonna happen. May sound weird, but I welcome these feelings. Sometimes it is good to let such as now. 

As I write this I think of all the times I along with my room mates had given our English major room mate a hard time, the joke in the house is that the pinnacle of his career would be to write our biographies for us. Maybe I should give him more credit because as of right now I feel like an incompetent idiot writing on a blog. 

The beginning of my trip brings me to Barcelona where I will hopefully board a train to Pamplona and survive running with the bulls. I have very little plans as to where I'm staying or how I'm even getting there but I'm sure I will be able to figure it out... Needless to say I can not wait until I am in Bonn and finally get into a groove and start to figure things out, right now I feel as though that will never happen. Until then..

Germany Pre-program Post

        So, I am heading to Germany in 5 days. A month ago when I signed up for this program I never would had even dreamed of seeing my "ancestral homeland" until I was the age of 30 or desperately needing an exotic vacation after college. So I am extremely happy and interested in this trip. This is my first real vacation (though I understand I will be taking courses) in what must be 5 years, since I was 13 years old.
        To prepare for this trip, I am rehearsing my German and Spanish that I have learned in my past (far better at Spanish though). I have purchased new luggage and who knew that the company Jeep even made luggage! Also, I have been in fluent contact with my German friend in Hamburg who will be very happy to see me again when I go and visit.
         So why did I choose this program. To be honest, I received an email saying "EVERYBODY, join in on this study abroad because people dropped out!" So, I read the email and saw Germany and Scholarship in the same sentence and applied. That was good enough for me! Once I had gotten approved and read further I realized how fun this program really would be. I get to go to the place my ancestors were from (a big ordeal for me) and get to learn about the History of Medicine. On a funny note, I originally thought this was a veterinarian course for some reason which is far less interesting to me and when I realized before I accepted the program that it was not, my excitement skyrocketed.
      Lastly, what do I expect? Lets start with the most important, the first thing I need to do on the first weekend is find a  Schultüte in hamburg! This is a tradition I was deprived of and want to own one. Basically for those who have no clue what a  Schultüte is, a  Schultüte is an open cone in which (usually parents) place large quantities of candy, toys, and even school supplies in to give to a student on his/her first day of school. My German friend even received 2 as she moved into upper level schools! Secondly, I expect to see the U-boat pens in hamburg and the dry dock where the Bismark was built and christened in Hamburg. On a more general note, I essentially wish to grow closer to my German heritage and understand new peoples and their ideals from across the globe, preferably while sipping on a glass of vodka or beer enjoying Germany's lower drinking age!      Best wishes to all, Kesler Brock

Germany Pre-program Post

             I don’t know what my expectations for this summer semester really are. I would mostly attribute it to the fact that I have no premonition of what most people have enjoyed there. Without some kind of clue, or insight, my response at this point will be generic and based off Internet research I’ve done. With this in mind, I would say I am expecting large glasses of beer, beautiful rolling hills, and people dressed in traditional German garments. However, just from talking to Mira during the spring semester I know that most of this is only true in Bavaria.  At an academic and intellectual standpoint, I expect to be immersed by a new culture and way of life. I want to notice and analyze the subtle differences between normal behavior of Americans and that of Germans. By the end of my stay in Germany, I hope to be able to have a very simple conversation in German.

            The reason I chose this program was because I wanted to go somewhere I’ve never been before, to a place where I didn’t know the language or anything about it. I wanted a new experience, to be able to say one day that I went to Germany, didn’t knowing the language, and still left more enlightened about their way of life. However, the closer and closer we get to the start the more and more nervous I get about not knowing very much. Luckily, Mira said that most young Germans know English, so if I completely fail I can at least talk in English and learn by trial and error.  At this point, I’m just ready to go.