Germany: Lindsey Hmielewski

Program: IES Berlin Summer Language and Culture, Summer

Lindsey’s Major: Physics

How will your experience benefit you in the future? How might it affect your future career or studies?

I thoroughly enjoyed studying abroad; I will always take this experience with me to my future classes at UW-Madison, my future career, and my personal life. It has given me new confidence, independence, and direction for my life. I have already planned on studying in Germany for my graduate studies, so this experience has reaffirmed my goals of returning here to study and potentially live.

What is the moment you are most proud of?

One of my proudest moments was in Hamburg. IES took a group of students on the program to Hamburg for one weekend, and while I was there, I went to a flea market. At the flea market, I was negotiating the price of some bracelets with a seller in German! I felt proud of my ability, not only to understand, but also to respond. I felt very proud of myself that I chose to first initiate the conversation in German, but then also continue- it definitely made me feel more confident in my language abilities.

What did you learn about yourself or the world because of your experience?

Because of this experience, I learned a lot about being independent. In Berlin, I had to learn how to use the public transportation as well as go out by myself to cafés, grocery stores, or to museums. I learned how to enjoy time by myself in a big city, which has also increased my confidence, especially in speaking German when I am by myself. I have also become more comfortable with myself because I met new people and made many new friends with whom I feel comfortable.

What is your advice for someone considering your program?

One piece of advice I would give is to make sure to take time for yourself. Berlin is a large city full of activities, but it is also important to find things to do, like going to parks or simply staying inside. Even though the program is only six weeks, there is still plenty of time to visit sightseeing spots or go to events, as well as take time for yourself, especially if you are an introvert like me.

What is a custom, food or tradition from your host country that you are taking forward?

In most of Germany, Sunday is a day of rest. Few to no stores are open, and you will see many fewer people outside at restaurants, bars, or cafés than on a typical Saturday or weekday. During my time here, I have reserved more time for myself on Sundays, enjoying nature or working on assignments. So, I would like to keep this tradition of reserving one day a week, perhaps on Sunday, for myself. I have felt more productive during the week as well as felt more like myself.