Exchange at Penn Finding Home Away from Home at Penn

Bastian, one of the Exchange at Penn Correspondents, shares his experience at Penn during the Fall 2024 semester. Follow along with the group of correspondents on our blog and look out for their images on the @pennabroad Instagram feed.

As my semester at Penn comes to an end, I once again find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I’ve had over these past months. It’s hard to believe how quickly time has flown—it feels like just yesterday I was arriving on campus, nervous yet excited for what lay ahead. Now, with so many experiences and memories behind me, I realize just how transformative this time has been. 

One of the most profound aspects of my exchange has been the global perspectives I’ve gained. At Penn, I didn’t just meet Americans; I met people from all over the world—each bringing unique stories, ideas, and experiences to the table. It’s one thing to read about different cultures or see them from the outside, but living and interacting with people from such diverse backgrounds has truly broadened my horizons. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of America and its culture, too, from a perspective that goes far beyond the surface-level insights I had before. Along the way, I’ve created so many wonderful memories exploring places like Boston, New York, the New Jersey shore, the Appalachians, and, of course, Philly itself. Each destination had its own unique charm, and I’m grateful for the chance to experience so much of what this country has to offer. 

The friendships I’ve made here are undoubtedly one of the highlights of my time abroad. Whether it’s my roommate, classmates, or fellow exchange students, the people I’ve met have shaped this experience in ways I never imagined. I’ve shared unforgettable moments with them—late-night talks, shared meals, exploring Philly, and cheering at sports games. Leaving them behind will be tough, but I know these connections will last well beyond this semester. 

Another key takeaway has been learning how to balance different aspects of life. Juggling academics, clubs, and social commitments in a completely new environment was no easy feat, but it reinforced the importance of creating balance. Between attending classes, hitting the gym, playing football, and enjoying the vibrant social life here, I can only emphasize how crucial it is to prioritize well-being alongside responsibilities.  

Of course, while I’ll miss Penn and everything I’ve experienced here, I’m also looking forward to seeing my girlfriend, friends and family back in Germany. It’ll be good to reconnect and share my stories with them.  

To anyone considering studying abroad, especially at Penn—I can’t recommend it enough. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you grow in ways you might never expect. If I could do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing. 

For now, I’m ready to say goodbye to Philly and Penn, but I know this isn’t really the end. It’s just the beginning of a lifetime of connections, memories, and lessons from this incredible semester.