STUDYING IN GERMANY & LEARNING GERMAN

by Yaone Thato Kgampi, University of Botswana

Getting to study abroad is an experience and goal that I had been long yearning for since my high school days, it seems so surreal to have accomplished one of my top goals in life. I got to set off on the adventure I always wanted, the short programme in Tübingen, Germany, has been the fulfilment of a dream. The chance to study in a foreign country as well as travel to a continent I have never been to before has introduced me to ideas, concepts, places and people I otherwise probably would not have encountered anytime soon. In my past three weeks in Tübingen I've had the pleasure of experiencing what it truly is like to study in Germany, mixed with ups and downs, it is surely one of my most precious memories that I'll never forget in my life.

It was the first time in my life that I've encountered a university campus that wasn't in one area; with its different buildings and departments spread all over the small town of Tübingen. With its endless options of what to study being a foreign concept for someone like me at the University of Botswana, the diverse students and the different learning atmosphere are some of the most memorable things I'll be taking with me from this experience. I've had lessons that have broadened my knowledge or simply added a new chapter to my knowledge, building on to what is already there. One of my favourite lectures has to have been the Human Rights in Germany lecture, it was very interesting and eye-opening; especially looking at the policies that Germany is taking concerning the refugee crisis.

There are various things that one can do as a student outside the classroom as well. I've enjoyed meeting students who are also on exchange from different countries and having them share their experience and advise with me. I've made lifelong friends in the people I've met here in Tübingen as well as in my fellow participants in the Tübingen-South Africa programme. As someone who is always occupied with school work back home, it was nice to have a chance to let my hair down and mingle with other students and enjoy the night life that Tübingen as a university town has to offer.

I would have to say my most favourite thing about being in Germany and studying here has been learning German. I came to Tübingen with the aim to learn German and I was very keen to enter the classroom and begin my lessons, no matter the degree of difficulty. For me I would say I've put a lot of effort into learning German as I hope to one day return and continue my studies in Germany, hopefully in two years time.

It has been different. I have experienced independence like never before, immersed myself in a different culture, understood the 'Tübingen' way of life with the help of my host family and everyone I've met while in Tübingen. It has been a short three weeks, wish it was longer, but otherwise very enjoyable and an amazing once in a lifetime opportunity. If I had the opportunity to do it again I would, with no hesitation. Absolutely one of my favourite moments in life, an awesome programme and an amazing three weeks in beautiful Tübingen.