First Month: A High School Senior's Experience Studying in Berlin
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First Month in Berlin: A High School Senior's Experience
As a high school senior embarking on a study abroad program over the past month, Berlin continues to surprise and enchant with new experiences, creativity, and culture.
The First Week
My first week in Berlin started with a pleasant surprise – an extra week of summer vacation! While my host school processed paperwork, I had the opportunity to spend quality time with my host family and explore the local area. One memorable outing was a trip to Wannsee, where my host dad took me on a ferry ride across the river to a small Biergarten for coffee. We then continued our journey to Potsdam, where we explored the gorgeous grounds of Schloss Sanssouci. The heatwave that had engulfed Berlin showcased the palace's ornate architecture against the backdrop of blooming flowers. My host dad's informative tour made the experience even more special.
Adjusting to a German Gymnasium
As a high school senior from the United States, adjusting to the German school system was chaotic at first. The freedom and independence granted to students in the Oberstufe, the upper grades, was a revelation. I quickly adapted to the block schedule with alternating classes, and my Leistungskurse (advanced courses) in English and Math became the pillars of my academic journey. Alongside these courses, I delved into subjects like Computer Science, Art, Acrobatics (a unique choice for a non-athletic individual like myself), Psychology, Biology, and History. Despite the initial confusion, I find the German school system totally fascinating!
Developing a Routine
As I settle into my routine, I constantly discover the allure of Berlin's quaint coffee shops. My favorites near my Mitte school are St. Oberholtz, Codos, Zeit für Brot, and Erchy's. These cozy havens are becoming my study spots as I work on college applications and revisit my love for reading. One bookstore, Ocelot, situated way too conveniently across from my school, has proven to be a problem (albeit a good one). My long commutes from my host family's apartment in Teltow, Brandenburg, to my school in Mitte have become opportunities to revisit my love for reading and journaling.
Exploring Local Culture
After school, I've been dedicating my time to exploring the local area and immersing myself in the vibrant Berlin culture. Another student from my program and I got tickets to Lollapalooza at Olympiastadion. Allowing us to experience incredible performances from artists like Mumford and Sons, Macklemore, and Imagine Dragons, providing a new perspective on Berlin's diverse music scene. In the same sense, we also attended the Positions Art
and Kite Festival in Tempelhof, which showcased the city's incredible affinity for creativity.
My new school friends and I stumbled upon an event called "Miss Read" at Haus der Kultur der Welt (HKW) in Tiergarten. This gathering brought together publishers and vendors from various locations, offering a plethora of intriguing essays, newsletters, books, pamphlets, and papers. Engaging in conversations with these vendors provided a glimpse into their knowledge and passion for their work.
From newspapers about the South African feminism movement to essays on Berlin's performance artists and even books exploring "Concert Ethics," the event was truly a unique and meaningful experience with friends.
My first month in Berlin has been a time of adventure, discovery, and growth. From exploring the city with my host family, to navigating the German school system and immersing myself in the local culture, I am so thankful for this experience!
~ Regina