Picture Yourself Here: A Day Abroad Immersing Myself in Berlin

By: Colleen McGovern

It’s Thursday, November 21st, and my alarm chimes at 7:45 a.m. I lazily reach for my phone on the bedside table, hitting snooze with determination. By 8:01 a.m., I’ve finally decided to embrace the day. I climb out of bed, throw on my gym clothes, grab a banana for the road, and bundle up in my winter coat, scarf, and gloves to face the crisp Berlin morning.

The U7 takes me a few stops to Mehringdamm, and after a short walk, I’m at the gym. Starting my day with a workout has become a ritual. Not only is it a great way to stay active, but it’s also an opportunity to practice my German. I stop by a local café for a coffee to-go, savoring the taste as I stroll back, ready to tackle the day ahead.

By 10:45 a.m., I’m back home, showered, and ready for the day. I dive into some last-minute homework for my Comparative Health Care Systems class, finishing up a reading on Medicine in the Technological Age. Afterward, I dash downstairs to tackle laundry—an essential task as I need to pack later in the evening.

At 12:30 p.m., I log into Zoom for my Comparative Health Care Systems class. Our professor is based in Copenhagen, which gives our discussions a wonderfully global feel. I get to exchange ideas with classmates studying in cities like Milan and London, each bringing unique perspectives influenced by their respective locations. Today’s topic is medical advancements, and our lively conversation circles back to a recent museum excursion that helped contextualize the intersection of history and technology in healthcare. One of the most rewarding aspects of my study abroad courses has been the opportunity to explore Berlin’s incredible museums and historical sites as part of our learning. From walking through exhibitions on the evolution of medical tools to visiting historical landmarks and local street markets, these excursions add depth to our discussions and insights that can’t be replicated in a classroom. This hands-on exploration is something truly unique to the study abroad experience, allowing me to connect academic concepts with real-world history in ways that are both immersive and unforgettable.

By 3:00 p.m., class wraps up, and I make a quick lunch before heading to campus for my second class, Cinema Studies: Berlin on Screen. This course is such a uniquely Berlin experience—our lectures often include exploring iconic films shot in or about the city. Today, we’re analyzing Olympia, a propaganda film about the 1936 Summer Olympics held in Berlin. Dissecting the editing techniques and discussing the film’s cultural implications reminds me how Berlin’s history seeps into every corner of life here.

At 6:30 p.m., I head down the block for dinner. Tonight’s stop: an incredible ramen spot in Kreuzberg. The food scene in Berlin is endlessly diverse, and Kreuzberg, in particular, is a culinary treasure trove. It’s not just about the flavors (though they’re amazing)—it’s about the people. Striking up conversations with locals about their favorite spots while grabbing dinner, deepens my appreciation for the cultural melting pot that Berlin embodies.

Dinner’s quick because I have basketball practice! Playing on a local German team has been one of the most rewarding parts of my time abroad. The team not only competes across Berlin and other German cities but also offers me a true window into the local culture. Through post-practice chats, and out-of-practice activities, I’ve gained so many insider tips about Berlin, from hidden cafes to little-known historical sites. Even better, I’ve been improving my German along the way, and nothing beats the camaraderie that comes with being part of a team.

By 9:30 p.m., practice ends, and I hop on the bus home, tired but exhilarated. After a shower and a quick dinner, I start packing for tomorrow’s trip to Amsterdam. Fridays off are a dream for study abroad students—we get the chance to make the most of long weekends, exploring Europe and deepening our understanding of the world. Before bed, I call my parents to share updates about my life in Berlin, recounting the highlights of the day and my excitement for the weekend adventure.

By the time my head hits the pillow, I’m already dreaming of what tomorrow will bring. Berlin offers so many opportunities for growth, connection, and discovery—it’s a city that never ceases to surprise and inspire me.

EXPLORE BERLIN