Studying abroad is such a wild adventure that opens your eyes to new cultures and experiences, but it’s not without its surprises. As a student from Munich now spending a term in the USA, I am learning some things the hard way. Here’s what I wish I’d known before I left.
1. Food Quality: From Bavarian Delights to American Surprises
One of the biggest shocks was the difference in food quality. Back in Munich, food is all about high standards. Bioproducts, and organic foods, are everywhere, and labels are strict, so you always know what you’re buying. Fresh, local food is easy to find, and I never really had to think twice about quality.
In the US, it’s more complicated. Even when products are labeled “organic,” they don’t always match the standards I was used to back home. You often have to dig deeper into labels, which can be confusing. And the bread? It’s a whole different story. In Germany, bread is dense, hearty, and savory. But in the US, even whole wheat bread has a subtle sweetness to it. It’s not bad, but it’s definitely not the same, and I found myself missing a good crusty sourdough or a simple Vollkornbrot with breakfast.
2. Price Differences: Everything is More Expensive Here
I wasn’t prepared for how much more expensive everything would be in the US. In Munich, the price tag is what you pay. Here, sales tax gets added at the register, so the total is almost always higher than you expect. It made budgeting tricky, especially when buying groceries or clothes.
And then there’s tipping. In Germany, tipping is optional, and a small amount is fine. But in the US, you’re expected to tip 15 to 20 percent at restaurants, bars, and even for services like haircuts. This makes eating out or getting a coffee much more expensive. I wish I’d known to plan for these extra costs before I arrived.
3. Education Differences: A Whole New Way of Learning
The educational system in the US is different from Germany’s in ways I didn’t expect. Back in Munich, classes are more lecture-based, and a lot of studying is done independently. Here, it’s all about continuous assessment, quizzes, homework, class participation, and group projects.
It’s a more interactive style, which means you get to know your professors and classmates better, but it also means more daily work. Adjusting my study habits was challenging at first, but it was interesting to see how differently learning can be approached. The hands-on style really pushed me to be more active in my classes, which I ended up appreciating.
4. Exhaustion: Trying to Keep Up with Everything
When you first arrive, it’s so exciting that you want to see everything and meet everyone. But it’s easy to get worn out. Coming from Munich’s more relaxed pace, I found it tough to keep up with the fast-paced lifestyle in the US. Between classes, social events, and weekend trips, I felt like I was always on the go.
That being said, the energy was contagious. I made the most out of my weekends, visiting new places I’d only seen in movies and bonding with new friends over road trips and late-night study sessions. There were times when I had to remind myself that it’s okay to take a break. Finding a balance between exploring and resting is key to making the most of your experience without burning out.
5. Homesickness: Missing the Comforts of Munich
Even though I love my time in the US, there are moments when I miss home a lot. It’s not just the big things like family and friends, it’s the small things like walking through the English Garden, drinking a Radler by the Isar, or just speaking German without having to think about it. But one of the best parts of studying abroad is the new friendships you make. My American friends are so welcoming, and they make an effort to learn about my culture, which helps me feel less homesick.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Ride
Studying abroad is an incredible journey. While I missed many things about Munich, I also learned a lot in the US that I wouldn’t trade for anything. If you’re about to embark on your own exchange, be prepared for surprises and embrace the differences. It might feel overwhelming at times, but you’ll come back with memories, new skills, and a fresh perspective on the world.
And who knows? You might find yourself craving both a juicy American burger and a warm Bavarian pretzel. That’s when you know you’ve truly embraced both worlds, and it’s a pretty awesome feeling.
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