In this article, I'd like to share the experiences I gathered during my first semester abroad. Not all of them were positive, but I'm proud to have finished my first semester abroad and I look back on that time as a wonderful memory. I would make the decision to study abroad again at any time.

My first semester abroad was already two years ago. I was incredibly excited about the time I got to spend in London. Even back in school, it was clear to me that I wanted to spend time abroad. I did that first as an au pair for a year in the United States, before I started my degree in Munich. I spent the first two semesters of my studies in Munich. Even when I enrolled for my degree, I knew I wanted to spend some time abroad. My university offered various programs. Because I was so close to the English language, I decided on England for my first semester abroad, after getting to know the United States as an au pair.

Why a first semester abroad?

First semester abroad

Friends and family members asked me this question again and again. I've always been an adventurous person. Back in school, I took part in various exchange programs because I wanted to get to know different countries and people. I also loved learning new languages, and I still do. Combined with a stay abroad, you can solidify your language skills and learn much faster than sitting at a desk back home.

Here are a few more reasons why studying abroad makes sense:

  • It builds independence
  • You gain a new perspective on your studies
  • You improve your language skills
  • You get to know the country and its people
  • You meet other students
First semester abroad

The reasons for a first semester abroad are many, and London is a great, vibrant city. I enjoyed my time in London enormously and got to meet plenty of inspiring people during my stay. During my semester abroad, I was able to broaden my horizons, both academically and personally, and grow beyond myself. The experiences I gained during my first semester abroad were one of a kind and rank among the best I've ever had. I recommend that anyone who gets the chance spend time abroad and make the most of it as a valuable experience.

The first stretch is the hardest

A new city, a new country, strangers and a foreign language. The impressions in the first few weeks were overwhelming. The first days were exciting. I was constantly on the go, but even that couldn't keep homesickness away. Especially in the mornings and evenings, I felt very lonely and cried a lot. Everyone cries. That's completely normal. A stay abroad usually comes with tears and feeling overwhelmed. It takes a while until you feel at home. I needed time to settle in too. The first few weeks, or maybe even the first month, are often uncomfortable.