What Four Months in Berlin Taught Me

When I decided to study abroad, I knew it would be life-changing. Throughout my last few days in Berlin, I’ve decided to reflect on some of the many wonderful lessons that I have learned (or lessons that have been emphasized) throughout my experience in Berlin and Europe as a whole. Knowing I will be going home soon makes me feel a lot of different emotions—but mostly a feeling of loss for the wonderful connections and community I have made here as well as an anxiety about integrating back into my home culture. Though I know I will adjust and will be thrilled to see my friends and family from home, I don’t want to lose this better version of me I have discovered on my journey abroad. I’m hoping this list will help me remember the things that have made me into my favorite version of myself yet. Without further ado: lessons from my time abroad:

• Optimism is your biggest superpower
• Going to a new country doesn’t automatically get rid of all of your problems 
• An open mind makes all the difference in the world 
• Learning a language is extra fun when you see your progress on a daily basis
• What you are doing is less important than who you’re doing it with
• Public transportation is such a privilege and convenience 
• Comparison is the thief of joy
• Being alone and being lonely are two very different things
• You never know what is out there until you go and see for yourself
• Flexibility is key
• There are bigger and better things in life than the things that seem to matter at ages 18-22
• Physical possessions are not what bring you joy 
• Do what makes you happy regardless of what others may be doing—you’ll be happier for it 
• You never know what cool experience is coming next or what amazing person you will meet 
• Don’t worry—you are not behind
• Everything is subject to change—and this is a good thing
• Sometimes too much planning makes you have less fun
• Happiness requires less than you think
• There is so much hope left in the world
• Adjusting to change is natural and you have no choice but to do it—and you will do it
• There is always somewhere where you belong
• Attitude is everything, and being around negative people makes you less happy—avoid them and surround yourself with people who have positive attitudes
• Lots of things in life bring you a lot more joy than partying
• You’ve got plenty of time—maybe not in the semester, but in your life—and you never know what adventures your future holds 
• It can be a lot of fun to be alone
• All good things must come to an end

Although these lessons are cemented into my mind from my experiences abroad, carrying them into my future will help me be a better and happier person. Though leaving Berlin might feel like leaving something behind, I know that in reality, I still move forward, regardless of where I may be. With these lessons learned and this stronger, more independent version of myself, I look forward to leading a happier and more fulfilling life back in the United States.