Monday, August 20, 2007
Auf Wiedersehen Deutschland
So, with my year in Germany now over, it's time to bring the blog to a conclusion.
My plan is to return there after I graduate, it's such a great country with amazing people. So for now it's Auf Wiedersehen Germany - but I don't think it'll be too long until I'm back there again.
I have had an amazing year, though it hasn't always been easy - I've had highs and lows; both of which I will gain from as a person.
The challenges started the moment my plane touched down in Nuremberg, as I started having to get used to the language. A week or so later I had trouble with my knee which necessitated a visit to the doctor (another struggle with my basic German). Soon after that there was suspected appendicitis and of course all this whilst being tested in my first real full time job at one of the largest companies in the world.
Nothing hit me harder, however, than the loss of my beloved Grandad in February, and shortly afterwards I lost my dear Great Aunt as well. In a small family like ours these were very difficult times and it was particularly upsetting to be away from home - unable to comfort my family and to receive support myself.
I miss them both very much but I know they would be very proud of my achievements over the year.
I managed to adjust to the changes in culture and lifestyle, and do a good job for Siemens at the same time - my reference that I was given on completing my placement being testimony to that. I have learnt a great deal from some very good professionals and will take my new knowledge back to university with me as I embark on my final year.
As far as the language is concerned I did pretty well too, I worked hard after work at night school and got myself a recognised certificate to show for it. I also went and learnt the basics of swimming, something I had always wanted to do. I saw parts of the world in trips to a few different countries, even going skiing - another new experience for me! The visits from my family and from my best friends were also real high points which I won't forget in a hurry. There are so many good times I really can't list them all here, but it will be good to look back over the blog in the future to remind myself of the fun I had and the experience I gained.
More than anything it was the people I met over in Erlangen that made the experience what it was. I can't name them all but they know who they are and I hope we can all meet up again in the future to catch up and reminisce about our time in Germany.
