GERMANY - MUNICH

Embarking on an exchange semester from the tranquil University of Liechtenstein to the dynamic city of Munich was an adventure filled with cultural change. My stay in Munich was a profound experience, shaped by the five vital "R's" of cultural adaptation: Routines, Responsibilities, Reactions, Relationships, and Reflections about myself.

Routines
In Liechtenstein, life followed a predictable rhythm. However, as I settled into Munich, I realized that routines were malleable. Munich's urban lifestyle required me to adapt quickly. The public transportation system was a complex web, and my daily commute transformed into a navigational puzzle. Without google maps I was lost. On weekends, I swapped Liechtenstein's serene nature hikes for Munich's bustling beer gardens and vibrant markets. This shift in routines broadened my horizons and encouraged me to embrace the dynamic energy of the city.

Responsibilities
With academic responsibilities came the need to understand Munich's unique academic culture. Professors expected more active engagement, and collaborative group projects demanded adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills. Outside of academia, I faced new responsibilities as a foreigner. Registering my residence and understanding the intricacies of German bureaucracy became essential tasks. When I moved to Liechtenstein, it was the first time being away from home, so my parents helped me a lot. In Munich I was on my own. It was a responsibility to navigate daily life effectively.

Reactions
Cultural change often elicits a spectrum of reactions. My initial excitement and curiosity were soon met with moments of confusion and occasional frustration. The ‘Du’ in Liechtenstein is very normal whereas in Munich it is common to use the ‘Sie’. Each misstep became a valuable learning experience, and cultural differences led to enriching conversations that broadened my perspective. I learned that adapting to a new culture was not about erasing these reactions but embracing them as an integral part of the journey.

Relationships
One of the most profound aspects of my stay in Munich was the relationships I forged. I connected with people from diverse backgrounds, forming friendships that transcended borders. Interacting with international peers was an intellectually stimulating experience that exposed me to new ideas and perspectives. I also built meaningful relationships with locals, bridging the cultural gap through shared experiences. These connections enriched my understanding of Munich's culture and allowed me to immerse myself more deeply in the community.

Reflections about Myself
Throughout my semester in Munich, moments of introspection were pivotal. I found myself questioning my beliefs, values, and preconceptions. Engaging with individuals from various backgrounds challenged my assumptions and prompted me to reconsider my own identity. My experiences underscored the importance of empathy and cultural sensitivity. I became acutely aware of my own cultural biases and grew into a more open-minded and globally conscious individual. Reflections Amidst the whirlwind of experiences and challenges, moments of reflection became my compass. Whether gazing at the serene Isar River or savoring a quiet moment in a Munich café, I contemplated the profound impact of this journey on my personal growth. I reflected on the transformative power of cultural change. It taught me adaptability, resilience, and the ability to see the beauty in diversity. Munich became my classroom, and its culture was my teacher, guiding me toward a more profound understanding of the world. In conclusion, my exchange semester in Munich was a life-altering adventure, shaped by the 5 R's of cultural change: Routines, Responsibilities, Reactions, Relationships, and Reflections about myself. It highlighted the importance of adaptability, empathy, and self-awareness in navigating new cultures. While the journey was not without its challenges, it was undeniably enriching. As I return to Liechtenstein, I carry with me not just memories of a vibrant city, but a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of cultural change and the profound impact it has had on my personal journey of self-discovery