Every Border Has A Meeting Spot

Wow, where do I even begin? Studying abroad has a way of transforming you in ways you never imagined. When I took the leap of faith back in March 2024, I didn’t realize I’d come out the other side as a completely different person. Now, as I sit here in October writing this blog post, I can’t help but reflect on how much I’ve changed, all thanks to the incredible people I met in Germany.

I was one of 21 international students at RheinAhr Campus, and let me tell you, I feel like the luckiest girl in the world! I’m truly blessed to have these amazing individuals in my life. We still keep in touch through our WhatsApp group chat—those notifications popping up on my phone are like little bursts of happiness. These friendships are lifelong, whether at weddings, birthdays, or spontaneous adventures in the future happen. I can't wait to reunite with them!

I got close with so many incredible people—like my buddy from Portugal, the sweetest curly-haired girl from Australia, and the hilarious knucklehead from the same place. There were also the most beautiful souls from Albania, the kindest folks from Turkey, the funniest girls from Ukraine, the joyful girl from Azerbaijan, and, of course, the awesome locals in Germany. And I can’t forget my dashing friends from Georgia! Each of these people made Germany feel like home for six whole months, and I can’t express how grateful I am for the love we shared.

Honestly, I can't wrap my head around the depth of the connection I have with these friends. I give all my thanks to God for guiding me through this journey. Leaving on March 5th was a wild ride—I was a scared girl heading into the unknown! I held onto my Bible verse, Proverbs 11:24-31, and I literally cried when I read it because the message resonated so deeply. It taught me that giving and sharing can lead to abundance, which is exactly what happened. I opened my heart to others, and it expanded in ways I never thought possible.

I’m excited to see where life takes me next. I’m hoping to visit my bestie in Portugal during spring break; he’s amazing and just gets me! And my girl from Australia? I adore her. I’ll never forget the thrill of running to catch trains, meeting new friends, and exploring 12 different countries together. Trying the local chocolate and beer—especially that incredible Swiss beer—was just the cherry on top!

I loved the longer classes in Germany, too. An hour and a half of learning? What a change from the usual! There were so many funny moments, like taking random pictures with German men in Munich—my friends know what I’m talking about! Sundays were a unique challenge, too; I had to find hobbies to keep myself entertained, which helped me discover a deeper love for myself and strengthened my connection with God.

I could go on and on about my life in Germany and my adventures in Europe. As I dictate this blog post, I’m flipping through the pages of my journal—a lovely gift from my sister for my going-away party. I didn’t fill the entire journal, and I’m a bit sad about that, but maybe that was meant to be. I like to think God left those pages open for new memories to be written alongside the old ones. The journal’s cover says, “The map to where she is going is written on her heart,” and I absolutely love that. It’s been through storms, backpacks, and plenty of tears, especially on the day I first wrote in it before leaving for Germany.

As I wrap up this blog, I just want to say thank you for taking the time to read my story. I have so much more to share about my trips and adventures—I want to remember it all and make it accessible to everyone! While my journal holds my personal thoughts, I want to share the journey with the world. Have a fantastic day, and see you on the flip side who knows where I will be next!