Naomi Ogilvie

UC Education Abroad Program Göttingen Year

"My year abroad in Germany was one of the most valuable experiences in my life not only because I learned about life in another country, but - more importantly - I learned about life as a foreigner. My experience gave me a wealth of perspective on what it means to be truly new somewhere, and what bravery it takes for people to move to a new country and start from scratch. While my experience as an international student was certainly less extreme than that of an immigrant, it still opened my eyes to the challenges that one faces while attempting to call a new country home - anywhere from the language barrier to cultural differences to confusing bureaucratic labyrinths. It also allowed me the truly unique experience of enjoying life where everything is different.

"Through study abroad, I was able to break out of the monotony of home life and step into entirely unfamiliar territory. As such, I learned something new every day while in Germany, and it was such a wonderful feeling to see everything from a different perspective. I believe that this must be why I've never heard of a bad study abroad experience: no matter what challenges you face, the constant stimulation and wonder you feel in a foreign country makes up for them. In a place where everything is new, you can't help but feel truly alive - and that was really the charm of study abroad for me."