So here is a summary of my time at Language Camp! When I heard about these first three weeks through the program, I didn't think they were going to be anything special. Sure, some German lessons and meeting the other 49 austauschschuelerin (exchange students)- but it was honestly so much more! I couldn't be more thankful for the experience I had at the Schloss Witti or the friends I made there. We had a great group of teamers and teachers and when I left this past Saturday I felt so ready to tackle my year as an American exchange student. I couldn't believe how fast time went while we were there and I have to say, I cried WAY more than I would like to admit when it was finally all over. So here are a few key memories in bullet format:
- German class! I really enjoyed my much needed introduction to the German Language. I had such a great teacher and such a good time- in order to sum up my class I recommend you listen to Auf Uns by Andreas Bourdani (it gets me everytime!) We learned basic grammar and some helpful vocab with tests every Friday to keep it straight. I found so many similarities to Latin in the language, I could make an entire post about that alone! Needless to say, I got the highest grade on our huge final test ;-)
- The squad: my room8 Mira, my twin Madalyn, and the always flawless Elaine. I was lucky enough to meet some of the most amazing people that America (and the world) has to offer over three weeks and I somehow managed to find enough room in my heart for all of them! I am so thankful to have a group of students I can depend on that are experiencing the same feelings as me and the Facebook group is a saving grace.
- The teamers! We had such an awesome program, learning everything from German history to how to work the Bahn system. I enjoyed our deep talks about comfort zones and cultural acclimation- the little things that will make the year run smoother were not forgotten! I am beyond thankful for the relationship I built with the teamers and can't wait to keep in touch over the year.
- The trails! I somehow managed to run every morning at the Schloss and like it (although it did make my heart ache for my Cross Country team back at home). I couldn't have asked for a better introduction to German beauty.
- "Be quick to observe but slow to judge." -Experiment program
- "Come to learn, not to teach." -Experiment program
- "True beauty shines through the hate" -Mira
- "Real World. Real Problems."
- "Literally" -Madalyn