The past couple of days since returning home from Munich have been a whirlwind. I had to re-acquaint myself with my family, U.S. time, and start a Co-Op in Pittsburgh. However, the long flights and long drives have allowed me to fully evaluate just how incredible of an experience my month in Munich was.

I arrived in Munich not knowing anything about the city, Bavaria, German culture, or the other students on the trip. I was a little intimidated to say the least. I was under the weather for the first week. I was struggling with adjusting to German culture, especially the food. The first week or so I spent in Munich was a challenge.

However, as I became healthy, I truly begin to discover the city of Munich. Through classes, planned trips, and spent free time, the trip began to turn. I can now honestly say that my trip in Munich was the best experience of my life.

Yes, I'll admit, I had a lot of fun...maybe a bit too much some times! But, I also learned A LOT. The classes we took were extremely informative, engaging, and truly interesting. The company tours we took gave us invaluable insight in to how the companies operated and manufactured. I learned about German history through our scheduled tours, by visiting places like Linderhof, Herrenchiemsee, Dachau, and Obersalzberg. However, I also learned quite a bit about myself. Some internal issues came to light while I was in Germany, and I am very glad that they did. I can now move forward with obtaining guidance in these aspects of my life.

I arrived to Munich not knowing anyone else on the trip. I spent my last night there with 7 others at a Spatenbrau, and I am extremely fortunate to say that these 7 people have become my good friends.
Its a shame 2 of them go to school in Germany!

This experience was incredible. It definitely had its ups and downs, but I cannot truly express how grateful I am for having went!

Auf wiedersehen!