1. What were your impressions of life in Germany? Did you find it difficult to settle in?

I am fortunate to say that adjusting to this new life where the cultural dynamics were relatively different to what I was accustomed to felt almost seamless, considering this is my first time living away from the island life that I grew up with and transitioning to a city far more extensive and with countless possibilities. I am incredibly grateful I had the support of the exchange program CBYX-PPP in guiding me throughout the journey. I was always reminded to keep an open mind and be flexible, and I think that that has served me well until now. 

Though I will say that the weather seems to be something I never quite acclimated to. 

2. How is the weather compared to Saipan?

Interestingly, I came to Germany during summer and thought it felt much hotter than Saipan. But when the seasons transitioned to autumn and later to winter, it is relatively a lot colder here than I expected. I seldom used the clothes I brought from back home and instead thrifted more frequently. 

However, I had the chance to experience all four seasons here. I experienced my first snow last winter, seeing the trees change color during autumn, and am experiencing this year my first spring and summer in Germany. Meanwhile, it is tropical all year round in Saipan. There is rainy season, but for the most part, it is summer the whole time. 

3. Did you recognize other differences between living in Germany and your homeland?

Since Saipan is a small island, everything is within reach – that means public transportation is not as extensive. Other than traveling by foot, cars were usually the main mode of transportation. 

Another concept I found relatively novel living in Germany is the concept of “Datenschutz” (data protection). Paperwork here is generally a thorough process to go through, and on top of that privacy is heavily valued here. That is much less of a thing back home, and I find the contrast interesting.

And of course the food is very different. Back home, I was accustomed to various Asian cuisines, from Filipino, Chamorro, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, and many more, and while I get to continue eating most of them here, I also have the opportunity to try different dishes, i.e. ones from Turkey, Greece, etc. and of course Germany.

4. Do you already have a favorite German food?

I have always had a soft spot for schnitzel, but one experience during Karneval really stood out: I visited a Brauhaus that served a schnitzel topped with savory gravy and sautéed mushrooms, paired with a side of fries. It was easily one of the best German dishes I had during my time here – it was incredibly delicious, and I still find myself thinking about it from time to time.

5. What else do you like about everyday life in Germany?

I think it is the fact that everyday there is always something new to try. Whether it be experimenting more with cooking food – the food selection and dietary options are more diverse and accessible here – or finding new parks, trying out restaurants, or attending local events or workshop. There is always something to look forward to. 

In a similar fashion, I appreciate the normalisation of healthier alternatives to lifestyle, for example biking seems to be a much more frequent thing in Germany, and I find that exemplary. It is also a great approach towards sustainability efforts, which one also sees with “Mülltrennung” (waste separation). 

Another thing is constantly meeting diverse people from all walks of life, similar to Saipan. Albeit small, my homeland comprises various cultures, and so living in a colorful environment full of multiculturalism always feels like home to me, and I am delighted I get to keep experiencing that here.

6. Would you like to tell us more about your language classes?

When I first arrived in Berlin, I attended two months of intensive German courses at the Carl Duisberg Training Center, starting at A1.2 and eventually earning my B1 certificate. More recently, I was fortunate to receive the opportunity – through my internship with Carl Duisberg Centren – to continue my language studies. 

My experience with the classes has been really positive and enriching. The lessons were intensive but well-structured and I appreciated how interactive and immersive the teaching style was. What made the experience especially meaningful was the sense of community in the classroom. My teachers were not only skilled, but genuinely supportive, and my classmates brought a lot of energy and encouragement. It made the learning process feel less intimidating and a lot more enjoyable.

7. What is your favorite word in German?

One of my favorite German words is “Sehnsucht”, as I have always been a yearner at heart. It captures that sense of longing and the beauty of pursuing something intangible, something that always seems just out of reach, but worth striving for. 

I also like the German word “doch”. I find it incredibly versatile and can be used in so many ways, which makes it both fun and expressive. There is something so charming about how a simple word can carry so much meaning and nuance, depending on the context. 

8. Do you have some tips for anyone learning German?

It is also really helpful to identify your learning style, whether you are more visual, auditory, or prefer reading and writing, etc., and tailor your practice accordingly. Naturally, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, so the more your methods reflect how you learn, the more progress you will see. 

That said, German has its fair share of grammar rules and structure, so repetition is key! And this goes without saying, but learning a language is never always easy, but it is deeply rewarding. Be patient with yourself, give yourself grace, and remember to make the journey enjoyable.

Thank you very much, Erika! We wish you all the best for the future.

Do you also want to learn German and discover the German culture? Take a look at our Language courses in Germany.