Alice studied abroad in Germany

Alice from Italy spent a semester in Germany.

Hi, I'm Alice from Italy. I spent 5 months in Germany for my high school exchange.

Why did you choose to go on a high school year?

I chose this experience because I have always enjoyed traveling and learning. I wanted to meet new people, see new places, leave my comfort zone, and experience something new and different. Therefore, when I heard about the high school exchange program, I immediately decided to go for it.

Why did you choose to go to Germany for your exchange?

I decided to spend a semester in Germany because I often met people from Germany and was always interested in German culture. In addition, the university I want to attend has some classes in German. Finally, I live near countries where German is spoken, so speaking it is very useful.

Was it easy or hard for you to make friends?

At first, it was not easy to make friends, because of the language barrier, and also because I have a shy nature. After some time, when I got better with German, I was able to make good friends at school. In addition, I often met with a couple of girls from foreign countries. We had many fun moments together and we could understand each other's difficulties of living in a different country.

What are your main learnings from your time abroad?

I certainly improved my German, enriching it with local idioms and improving my pronunciation. But I think the best achievements concern the growth of my self-confidence because, with time, I was able to learn and do more and more things. I realized the importance of having the courage to try new things. What may seem impossible at first, is not. My time in Germany opened my mind because I met people with a culture and opinions very different from mine.

Why should anyone study abroad?

A study abroad experience allows you to grow, become independent, and increase your self-confidence. It allows you to meet new people, realities, and points of view that are different from those in your home country. In addition, you learn a new language and with it, you can fully understand your host country, which helps to open your mind.

How do you think your high school exchange will affect your future?

Certainly, this time abroad will influence my life, because it has given me the courage to undertake experiences and adventures that at first glance seem impossible. Moreover, it has made me discover the magic of traveling and learning about new cultures.

Find out more

• Read more student stories from Germany
• Read more about a high school exchange in Germany
• See all our high school exchange destinations