I learned a lot of things including cultural differences

I chose Global Exchange Program in University of Bonn because I wanted to learn German and my home university in Japan (Waseda University) had an exchange program with the University of Bonn. In addition, I was interested in climate change and the central institution of UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) is in Bonn. I collected information for my study abroad mainly through the study abroad center at my home university and through my seminar professor who is German.

On my arrival, it was difficult to get to my dormitory alone. I stayed in an apartment with private bathroom and kitchen. It was only 10 minutes by bus from Bonn main station. It was in a good location and the surrounding was peaceful.

I mainly chose German language courses, but also other courses. For the German courses, I looked at the brochure from the International Office. For other courses, I looked at BASIS and chose some courses that interested me. I think the biggest difference between courses in Japan and ones in Germany is that students are more actively participating in courses in Germany than in Japan. I made some friends in the German language courses (all international students). Through other courses, I made one German friend and one Italian friend. Also, I got along with my study buddy, who was German. It was sad that I could not find any tandem partner throughout my stay in Germany.

Overall, I liked the life in Bonn. Bonn is not a big city, but one can buy almost all the necessities in Bonn. It is relatively easy to access other big cities in Germany such as Köln, Koblenz, Düsseldorf, Aachen, and even Frankfurt. There are many University students in Bonn and people are mostly nice. I experienced German culture through taking trains, cooking and eating German dishes with friends, visiting many churches, visiting cities around Germany, and chatting with friends. In my free time, I traveled a lot, either with a friend or alone. I traveled not only in Germany but also in other countries in Europe. When travelling, one should install some Apps such as “Skyscanner” for cheap flights, “Booking.com” for accommodation, “DB Navigator” for trains etc.

I am very satisfied with my study abroad. I was planning to work after my graduation but since I met many master and doctor students I got interested in continuing to study - I decided to do my master in Germany. I would advise future exchange students to be positive and try whatever they are interested. I learned a lot of things including cultural differences. I felt that people have more freedom in Germany than in Japan. I definitely want to go abroad again.