My name is Achilles, and I’m from Thessaloniki, Greece. I want to share my incredible adventure as an exchange student in Germany, not just once, but twice! Thanks to the ASTUR Highschool program, I got to experience life in the beautiful city of Bonn, and it all started with a short, five-week trial when I was 14. I was curious to see if I could handle being away from my family for an extended period. So, I embarked on a five-week exchange program to Germany. That first trip was a real eye-opener for me, as I discovered that I was not only capable of living independently, but I also thrived in a new environment. I fell in love with the German culture, the language, and the people I met.
Feeling inspired and motivated, I decided to take on the challenge of a full-year exchange when I turned 15. I was over the moon when I found out I’d be going to Bonn, a gorgeous city in western Germany. My excitement was through the roof, and I couldn’t wait to dive back into the world I had gotten a taste of during my short-term exchange. When I arrived in Bonn, I was greeted by my amazing host family, who instantly made me feel welcome and comfortable. They were genuinely interested in learning about my Greek culture, and I was equally fascinated by their German traditions. We bonded over shared meals, where we exchanged stories and experiences from our different backgrounds.
School life in Bonn was fantastic. I was enrolled in a Gymnasium, where I was able to develop my language skills and make new friends. My classmates were supportive and inclusive, which made the transition so much easier. I was initially nervous about communicating in German, but with their encouragement, I became more confident and fluent. In my free time, I explored the picturesque city of Bonn. I was captivated by the stunning architecture, like the Poppelsdorf Palace and the Bonn Minster, as well as the natural beauty of the Rhine River. One of my favorite spots was the Beethoven House, the birthplace of the famous composer. I was in awe of the rich history and culture that surrounded me.
The highlight of my exchange, however, was the friendships I made. I connected with people from all over the world, and these relationships taught me the importance of empathy, understanding, and embracing diversity. I loved spending time with my friends, whether it was playing football, going to the movies, or just hanging out and chatting. My full-year exchange in Bonn was filled with unforgettable moments and personal growth. It was a journey of self-discovery, as I learned to embrace my independence, adapt to new situations, and face challenges head-on. I truly believe that my time in Germany shaped me into a more resilient and open-minded person.
As I said goodbye to Bonn and my host family, I knew that I would carry the memories and friendships I made in my heart forever. My two exchange experiences with ASTUR were life-changing, and I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow in such a beautiful place. Here’s to the incredible times I had in Germany, and to the exciting adventures that await!