Why Germany?

In my nearly 21 years, I have never stepped foot out of the continental United States. I am ready for an adventure across the world; an adventure that I hope will help me develop as a person, both culturally and intellectually. I know this may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for myself, so I am taking full advantage. I also have a secret love for history. Starting in middle school, I became obsessed with World War II. I loved learning about the war and would take every possible opportunity to enhance my historical knowledge. The number of history books I have read is absurd, documentary watching could have been considered my part-time job, and my dreams of eventually visiting the land of World War II were plentiful. Those dreams are finally coming true. In just six months’ time, I will be in a country rich with history and culture that has held my interest for much of my life. I will be visiting cities which held momentous events of World War II, and will visit significant landmarks from the country’s history. Landmarks such as the Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Berlin Wall will be a few among many on my list of sights to see.

The Reichstag, current meeting place of the German Parliament, is pictured above. The bottom photo, from 1945, displays a Red Army soldier hoisting the hammer and sickle flag on top of the Reichstag building, signifying the seize and control of Berlin. The end of the Second World War would follow soon after. I greatly appreciate this photo because it is demonstrating just how close the end of the war is; Berlin has been occupied by the Soviets and the Germans are on their last stand.

During my time in Germany, I anticipate to further enhance my knowledge of the country’s deep history and culture. I hope to come away from this trip with a much more well-rounded understanding of Germany’s history, since I have focused almost solely on World War II in my personal studies. I expect to be well informed on topics such as Martin Luther, World War II, the division of Germany, and the unification of East and West Germany, as well as the development of religious architectural styles throughout the country. That brings me to my next reason for choosing Germany. Architecture is yet another topic which I have much interest in. The unique styles and designs of German castles and cathedrals are absolutely fascinating to me. Pictured below is the Erfurt Cathedral (left) and St. Severus Church (right), both of which I hope to visit. I believe they are both beautiful structures that can only be truly appreciated in person.

I am beyond excited for our time in Germany. Beyond the educational experiences I will obtain, I hope to simply have a great time, in a great country, with some great people. I am very much looking forward to our three months together in Germany.

Until then.

Zum Wohl!



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