5 months on the other side of the world - what remains?! (self-reflection)

Exactly three weeks ago, I sat with my Chilean family in Santiago at our last shared lunch, and today I'm wearing my alpaca sweater, sitting on my parents' couch, and reminiscing about the time.

Thank you (I can't say it enough) to the people I had the privilege to meet there. They inspired me and taught me a lot about my own personality, which I have now strengthened.

Yorka showed me that you can pursue a career in science while still living your own life. Being exact and highly correct doesn't have to be boring.

Matias goes where he's needed, whether it's supporting his family, carrying bags, or helping injured people during protests. It was very impressive how he seemed to be everywhere and still found time.

I learned from Julia that sometimes you just have to take a chance. Just get a year-long visa and see what happens. But always stay open and kind-hearted, even if it doesn't seem like it on some days. Just keep going and look forward.

Marte is the complete opposite and likes to plan ahead. The advantage is that things rarely get hectic, and nothing can really throw you off track. I would also like to be more forward-thinking.

Berny worked hard to fulfill her dream of opening a café. And if that wasn't spectacular enough, she has such a big heart.

Felipe inherited her genuine warmth, and I learned that it's completely okay to derive energy from doing favors for others. It was also fascinating how much he knew about every topic.

I could continue the list, but I think I've named the most important ones. I miss you all and wish you the best for your future.

After recovering from my jet lag (no joke, I slept 12 hours a day for a week), German life is back in full swing. I'm organizing my university stuff, going to planned appointments on time, and diligently writing in my schedule. But surprisingly, it doesn't bother me; it's just a different way of life, and I've realized that I can handle both. I feel a bit more productive in Germany with a structured routine, but here is where my "real" life is, with professional and personal goals. I'm excited to continue working on them and enjoying the "order." But in the past 5 months, I've had experiences that feel like 5 years, and I need some time to process them. And then I think the travel bug will catch me again...

Yes, I'm someone who can't sit still, but that's not a bad thing because that's how you "move forward." I feel better when I can move and be outdoors. But I've also learned to say no and listen to my body when things get too overwhelming. I used to be afraid of "missing out" and being left out, but you can't be everywhere. What's important is how you prioritize. Today, I would describe myself as a sociable, sometimes lively person who does a lot for their family and friends. It gives me strength to see the people around me happy, and I'm even happier when I can contribute to that. I think I want to live near a bigger city in the future; the countryside is too boring for me in the long run. I love cultural diversity and the opportunity to try new things. And I want to go bowling more often, even in everyday life. I'm perfectionistic, especially when it comes to myself, which sometimes causes me problems. But what needs to be done must be done. I stress myself out the most, but I can also quickly find peace. Living in the moment is good for me, and I'm quite impulsive. My fellow human beings always know how I'm feeling, but they still have to endure it. I can't lie, and I'm proud of my honesty, being able to say what I think. I believe time has brought me more confidence and, above all, contentment with myself, even though I still have to work on it.

With this self-reflection/thanksgiving (what a strange combination, right?), I want to conclude this blog. If there are any unanswered questions...Would I do it again?! The answer is clear: ANYTIME, it was the best decision to apply for this internship in Chile.

Frieda (16.02)