Now that my teaching assistant contract has ended, my year abroad is now officially over.
Sadly, it did not finish the way I had hoped, but this doesn't take away from the good times I did have.
Not to sound cliché, but the year abroad was a roller coaster. There were some of the greatest moments (and now, forever memories), but also some pretty difficult times. But I am grateful for it all, because it was all a part of that learning curve.
I miss Lübeck a lot. It is a beautiful city and living there will always be a huge part of my life. I feel as if Lübeck is the hidden gem in Germany's crown. I mean, I had never heard of it before I found out I would be living there this time last year. A small city, north of Hamburg, with 7 spires, lots of shops, history, restaurants and a beach only a short bus or train journey away. Plus, in November and December, this place becomes the home of Christmas! It had 12 Christmas markets! It's amazing how they managed to fit it all in!
Another aspect I miss about Lübeck is my school. I loved working as an English Language Assistant. Yes, the early mornings were not much fun, but it was worth it! I think the best moment, for me as a teacher or teaching assistant, is when you're explaining something to someone, who is not getting it at all, then whilst you're explaining it to them, they go 'ohhhhh' (or in Germany 'ach so') and suddenly have that Eureka moment. It is such a great feeling! You know you have made a difference, no matter how small.
I miss the people too, who were all part of this experience! The other language assistants, the staff at the school, my housemates, the kids: there were so many people who impacted my time abroad and sadly, I never got to say a proper thank you or goodbye. A couple of the other language assistants live in the UK, so hopefully we can meet up again soon and I hope I will get to see the others, who live overseas, again! Also, I hope to go back to Lübeck to visit my school to be able to say thank you for everything in person! I know I will one day!
But I am so grateful for everything that did happen during the shortened year abroad. I travelled around Germany, visiting different towns and cities and to Denmark and Sweden, which was incredible. That was something I never expected to do! Having that freedom to travel was amazing, and because of where Germany is situated in the middle of Europe, means that you can travel to a new country, whichever direction you go! There's so many places and countries to choose from. Plus, travelling within Germany is incredible too. I think it is underestimated. The country is so diverse. There are cities, beaches, mountains, forests, lakes; the list is endless. I think there is something for everyone in Germany. So, if you've never been, please consider it! I love Germany and would implore everyone to visit.
I would recommend a year abroad to anyone, who has the opportunity! Yes, it seems daunting and scary, but it will not only provide you with memories for the rest of your life, it will also help you become a lot more independent, make you more open to saying yes and trying new things and spark a wanderlust that will last forever.
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