For Leah. Have fun in Germany! :D

I just got a message from someone named Leah. I don't know her but she enjoys reading my blog. She asked me to keep writing because she is getting ready for her exchange semester in Germany.

 Thank you Leah for reminding me to blog. :) I do admit that I have waited too long to write again. I have experienced a lot since my last post so I don't exactly know where to begin. I bet you are so excited to go to Germany, but also, a little nervous too. I will start with a list of tips that help me while I am abroad. Maybe they will help you too!

1. The less communication you have with your family and friends back home, the better!(especially in the beginning)

- It is hard, but I know you can do it. ;) This will help with homesickness. I found it helpful to deactivate my Facebook in the beginning because it made me sad to see what everyone back home is up to. I think it is extremely important to indulge yourself in making new friends, developing a relationship with your host family and just the new culture as much as possible. It is hard to try to live in 2 different cultures at once.

2. Speak only the language that you are learning. Don't be afraid to look stupid!! 

- English is an international language. Almost everyone that I know here speak English. A lot of people would love to practice their english with you. But this is YOUR exchange year and you are there to learn the language. Don't be afraid to tell them that. Most people would completely understand and probably really admire how much you want to learn. 

And yes, you might feel a little stupid at first while learning. But Learning a whole language is hard! And people will understand that. :)

I even speak german with the other exchange students that come from English speaking countries.

3. Please don't stress yourself with school!

- Learning chemistry in German is difficult. You are there to learn german. Just try your best. Have a dictionary out and write down new words as much as possible. Thats all you can do. 

Don't worry be happy! :)

4. Don't freak out when you start gaining weight. I am sorry, but it will happen. 

- There is a big chance that your diet will change dramatically in a new culture. Just enjoy it! This is a huge discussion between me and the other exchange students. ALL OF THEM GAINED WEIGHT. We came to the conclusion that we can lose the weight again when we go back home. It is worth it! (cheese&chocolate) ;)

5. Start a blog!

 This blog is my excuse to take a break from german. It is your blog and you can write what ever you want! Maybe it will help a future exchange student. ;) And I can't wait to read this in 10 years! :D

Remember, these tips helped me. You are your own person! You are going to find ways that work for yourself. :) If you have any specific questions, Don't hesitate to ask! I think it is great that you want to live in a different country and experience a new culture.  GO YOU! :)

I will write about the cool experiences I had recently sometime this week! I promise! :)