My Year Abroad

1. About Myself:

 I grew up near Falkirk in Scotland and currently study 'Languages and Intercultural Communication' in Edinburgh.

My hobbies include; Tennis, going to the Gym and reading. I also love travelling, fashion, shopping, photography and animals.

I first visited Germany as part of a school exchange during which I met one of my best friends. I consequently visited on many occasions, staying with different families. After I finished Secondary School, I returned to Germany to work as an English Assistant in a Boarding School in Bavaria for a year. I loved the lifestyle, country and the people, so I am really looking forward to going back.

   2. Why I am interested in Studying Abroad:

As I previously mentioned, I have spent a lot of time in Germany and really enjoyed it. It is a possibility that I may choose to live there, so studying there for a year would help me achieve that. It is also the best way to improve your language and become fluent.

3. What challenges I think I will have to face:

This forthcoming year will throw a lot of challenges my way. Firstly, moving to a place I have never been before is a big change as well as trying to meet new people.This situation is one I have faced many times before but it will still be tough.
Secondly, the workload and University timetable will be much more demanding compared to Edinburgh. I will have many more modules and could have 12 hour days. Dealing with this could become very stressful if I do not manage to keep on top of it.
Thirdly, I have chosen to undertake a Scottish-German double Degree so I know I will really have to push myself and work really hard to achieve this.
Finally: language problems. The level I will be working at will involve me using sophisticated and difficult language. It will push my knowledge and language skills to the maximum.

4. What strategies I am going to use to improve my language skills before I go and once I am in the country:

Before I go: I will start to read more in German, watch movies in German and watch German Television. I will also review my notes from my German studies.

Once I'm there: I am aiming to arrive a few weeks before the start of term in order to settle in but also to immerse myself in the language and get back into the swing of speaking German.

5. What my expectations for my year abroad are:

I am expecting to have to work the hardest I have ever had to before. I think the University workload and exams will be stressful and challenging.

On the other hand, living on the continent offers so many opportunities to travel, which I fully intend to do as often as I can.

I think I will really enjoy most aspects of the year and I hope my German will reach the next level.