Mosaic of Memories

I am Oljana, an exchange student from Albania and this semester I had the opportunity to study at RheinAhrCampus. This experience has been transformative for me so continue reading if you want to discover some highlights of my journey, covering aspects such as internationalization, making friends from everywhere, exploring different study methods, understanding work ethics, and most importantly traveling!

The concept of internationalization was brought to life during my semester in Germany. RheinAhrCampus is a hub of cultural diversity, with students from all over the world. This environment improved my academic experience as I engaged with different perspectives and ideas. One of the most rewarding aspects of my exchange was the opportunity to make new friends from various cultural backgrounds. I met fellow students from countries like Georgia, Turkey, Australia, USA, India and the list goes on and on, and we quickly formed a close-knit group. These friendships extended beyond the classroom, as we explored a lot of cities together, sharing our cultures and creating lasting memories. Germany's central location in Europe gave me a lot of opportunities for travel, which I eagerly embraced. During weekends and holidays, I explored various cities and regions, including Berlin, Munich, Cologne, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, and even visited neighboring countries like France, Belgium, Luxemburg, Austria, Netherlands. Traveling helped me appreciate the rich history and diversity of Europe, and I returned with a deeper understanding of different cultures and societies. My favorite thing during the trips was visiting historical monuments and art museums. 

The German education system introduced me to new learning techniques that differed significantly from those in Albania. Group projects and presentations were key parts of the curriculum, fostering teamwork and collaboration. During the internship, I discovered quite a lot regarding work ethics. The German approach to work is characterized by punctuality, efficiency, and a strong sense of responsibility. This was evident in both academic and non-academic settings. Things that should be well highlighted for me during this experience are setting clear goals, taking the step to lead even though it is not a familiar environment, and bringing creative ideas to the table.

As my time in Germany comes to an end, I can't help but feel a mix of gratitude and sadness. This journey has been more than just an exchange; it's been a life-changing adventure filled with new friendships, unforgettable experiences, and personal growth. From the cozy evenings spent with my dearest friends to the challenges that pushed me out of my comfort zone, every moment has left an indelible mark on my heart. I'll forever cherish the memories and the lessons I've learned, and while I'm excited to go home, a piece of my heart will always stay here in Germany. I’m grateful for all my international friends who made this chapter unforgettable.