Reasons I'm Studying in Germany

1. My college career has helped me develop a love for Germany. Two of my roommates, who double as two of my closest friends at North Central, are German majors. I have spent the majority of the last three years hearing about the German program, and what a wondrous place Germany is. My father is also a fairly big World War II and German history buff, as his grandparents were German immigrants. Having heard so much about Germany and German culture throughout my life, I have developed a natural inclination for learning about Germany. Combined with this, four of my close friends, including the aforementioned roommates, went on the Berlin D-Term trip two years ago. Having heard the stories about that experience, it solidified my wish to go to Germany and experience it for myself. Having these friends to prepare me for the trip also makes it feel like I've already been there, and I feel less nervous about traveling abroad because I have been prepared well for what to expect.

One of my roommates, talking to a mannequin in Berlin on the 2010 trip. Clearly I'm being prepared by the best.

2. I also have a huge love for all European culture, and have for a long time. I love learning about European history, and about the interactions between the diverse groups of people that live on the world's smallest continent. I have always wanted to go to Europe, but unfortunately have not left the U.S. up to this point. This being my last year of college, I feel that I will not really have the opportunity to travel for a long time. So, I felt that I had to seize the opportunity to go on a D-Term trip while I had the chance, and Germany seemed like the perfect fit. I have no real interest in going to Asia, Australia is too expensive, and London and Paris seem boring. Germany, however, is the perfect blend of great food, great people, and unique history. This trip seems like it will be fascinating every step of the way.

3. Finally, I'm enthralled by European football. I absolutely love it. I follow the English Premier League very closely, and also maintain a regular interest in the Bundesliga. I always hear about how big football is over there (Yes, I call it football, not soccer), and I'm interested in finding out if it really is that big of a deal over there.

My Favorite German team is Schalke 04. Here's German striker Lewis Holtby from Schalke.