Greetings! Well, with my countdown to departure reduced to mere weeks, my constant thoughts of preparation have coerced me into finally beginning my blog. As some of you may or may not know, I was officially accepted as a Gilman scholar; so not only is this blog here to keep you updated on my travels and to provide me with an outlet during my time in Munich, it is also a requirement I have promised to meet in order to receive my scholarship. Part of the scholarship application asked me to propose a project, which I will need to complete within 6 months of my return to the States in August. My project will include a YouTube channel and this blog; both offering other students a view of what it's like to study abroad, what one may gain from it, how to survive in a new culture, etc... I also hope to ensure them that studying abroad is very attainable for most students-- not just restricted to those who can afford such travel on their own expense-- especially with the help of scholarships such as the Gilman International Scholarship.
This is an experience that I think everyone should consider, especially with how networked the globe is nowadays. With such a transparent society, we cannot expect to succeed with blinders on. I don't propose that you forget your pride and love for your country/heritage, but I do suggest that you step away from yourselves every now and then and survey the differences/similarities that do exist. You may learn and grow from it more than you suspect. A simple understanding of other cultures can go a long way in promoting a wider peace. New ideas and concepts are also great for influencing positive change.
Personally, I know how much I will miss my family, friends, and again Kelley, but in the grand scheme of things I know how much I will benefit from this experience. I can only hope you all understand such benefits as well, and if not, then hopefully this blog will be a helpful window for creating that understanding. I also think my trip will go a long way in strengthening and maturing my relationships with all of you. Feel free to comment back in whatever way you see fit to this or any of my future posts. I am very open to discussion and also to suggestions of places/things that you think I should see or show you. If you'd like to get in touch with me while in Germany (beginning March 16th), you can search my screen-name JDrawz on Skype to video chat, find me on Facebook, check my Twitter for more brief updates, or if you're more a fan of classic post then I will soon provide you with my German address.
I hope you all enjoy my sharing of the adventures that I will inevitably enjoy, and I'd love to spend some time with you in the coming weeks before I depart! Tschüss!
Beautifully said :)
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