Why Germany?

Last year, around this time I had overheard someone talking about signing up for a D-term trip to Italy. Traveling has always been a dream of mine which has never changed. I looked further into this opportunity to travel through the school and came across a trip that went to Greece and Italy. Two countries, school credit, and a program allowing me to gain full benefit while abroad, what could get any better than that? I could never find the time or someone to travel with and this kind of trip was the perfect fit. When i heard that there was only a few spots left, I put my payment down almost immediately. I eagerly waited the whole summer, until December finally came around. Europe is similar, but so very different compared to the way we live as Americans. That's when the travel bug bit me. I found myself making lists of all the places I wanted to discover, and trying to plan when I would go and who I could get to go with me. We are all stuck in our little bubble in Naperville, and I am anxious to explore what the rest of this world has to offer.

I chose to travel to Germany this year because we all learn about WWII in high school and discuss the misery of concentration camps during the Holocaust but I want to develop a better understanding of German history through experience. Family friends of mine have visited Germany during Oktoberfest and I visit the Christkindlmarket every year. I would like to taste authentic German beer and sausage at the Christmas Markets in Germany. These types of festivals are also a great way to observe the social norms of Germans compared to Americans.

Christmas Market in Berlin

As horrifying as it was, the Holocaust is one of the most interesting topics in history. Understanding the way the individuals were treated and learning everything that they had to suffer through is so hard to wrap my mind around. Some survived and from a science perspective, it is incredible to see that the human body has a subconscious drive to fight for survival. I am looking forward to explore the Sachsenhausen concentration camp and learn from Germans and their interpretation of their history in regards to the Holocaust and other tragic events.

Living Conditions during the Holocaust at a concentration camp.
Also an example of how frail the individuals bodies were.

People complain today about minuscule things such as their IPhone being dead or their WiFi not working, as if they don't appreciate the fortunate life they have, with the materials and advanced technology we have today. The use of technology is another thing that I like to observe while abroad. America has become so "plugged in." From social media cites, to texting, to children learning on tablets, paper is quickly becoming non-existent. It is a relief to observe that not everyone in this world has disregarded the idea of face-to-face interaction with another human being. I look forward to interacting with all of my group mates, along with the locals there, learning new things and understanding the perspectives everyone has on each topic we cover. I am very eager and looking forward to traveling and gaining new experiences and memories with this group.


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