Access to neuroscience education in Indonesia is limited, with only medical schools offering such programs. Therefore, receiving a scholarship to pursue neuroscience at Wesleyan University was a dream come true. Knowing that Germany boasts a strong neuroscience research culture and offers a tuition-free master’s program, I understand the importance of learning German for me in the future. Thus, I decided to start my German language journey.
I began learning German using flashcards and Duolingo. By the time classes started, my university’s German department determined my readiness to learn German at an above-intermediate level. Opting to brush up on my grammatical foundation, however, I opted to start learning at an intermediate level.
As my proficiency in German grew, so did my fascination with Germany, its history, and its culture. Inspired by how Germany’s past is actively shaping its global presence, I declared a major in German studies during my second year of learning the language. This passion led me to immerse myself further in the German language and culture.
Extending my journey beyond the classroom, I applied to live in a dedicated German-speaking community at Wesleyan, where I actively participated in planning and executing cultural events with my housemates, including Oktoberfest and Bastelabend, a craft night.
I also took the initiative to lead a weekly Mittagstisch, a lunch table where everyone can come to practice German or learn about Germany, where I collaborated with the German department at Wesleyan to promote the activity.
With increasing proficiency in the language, I felt inspired to pursue an opportunity to visit Germany, prompting me to write a grant proposal. After conducting thorough research, I identified the cultural competencies I could gain from such an experience. Additionally, with careful planning, I precisely outlined the costs associated with the trip. Subsequently, my proposal received approval, and I was awarded a grant from The Helmut and Erika Reihlen Fund to travel to Germany during the summer.
As I embark on this journey to Germany, I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have come my way, and I am eager to continue expanding my knowledge, language skills, and cultural understanding.
