It takes a long time (about five years) to get to the first legal state exam and I always knew I didn’t want to spend it in Berlin in its entirety. But where to go? Switch to a different German university perhaps, or move to the other side of the globe for a while? This, I had been undecided about.
But then, last year, I spent a week in London with three close university friends. Together, we experienced the ups and downs of the autumnal November weather in England's largest metropolis. I was immediately struck by the pace of the city and the multicultural mix of its inhabitants. We also visited King's College London (KCL). There, we got to talk to some of the students. What they told us about the many events and extracurricular activities impressed me. I was equally amazed by the range of courses: whereas in Germany the subjects in law studies are narrowly defined, at (KCL) you get to play the field. In addition to the classics like Criminal Law and Law of Contract, there are subjects such as Environmental Law and Fashion Law.
When I returned home from my trip to England, I immediately wrote a letter of motivation and applied for a semester at KCL – and, naturally, I was on cloud nine when I received my acceptance letter a few months later!
Memories and decision-making
So it was decided. I still had doubts sometimes, which I think is to be expected. When I look back on my life experience, however, I find that, growing up, the influence of new impressions and experiences have had a lasting impact on my character. In fact, they were indispensable for broadening my horizons. Changes of perspective always helped me to understand things better or to approach matters in a more relaxed way.
As a student, for example, I took part in several international parliamentary simulations. As a shy tenth grader, I was initially overwhelmed by the international environment, the self-confidence of the speakers and the high level of English. My first speeches were by no means flawless; but with the necessary courage and an open mind, I got more and more involved. Since then, I have come to see this project as one of the most formative experiences on my way to law school.
Nurturing friendships - old and new
Of course, some students are more outgoing than others: while one finds it easier to make new contacts, another finds themselves struggling. Personally, I would describe myself as someone who easily connects with new people. And during a semester abroad, there should be plenty of opportunity to meet peers: the universities as well as halls of residence offer a variety of social get-togethers where one can meet people who share the same experience.
Now I’m thinking back to my own freshman week at Humboldt-Universität: initially I was standing around awkwardly in the law faculty’s courtyard, but after the first round of drinks I had already met lots of other students and a bunch of new numbers saved on my mobile. I strongly recommend taking advantage of any welcome events during the first few weeks - especially for those who might be a bit shyer to begin with. Because what might start out as stiff small talk usually turns into a pleasant acquaintance after a few drinks together!
For my start at KCL, I signed up for a welcome BBQ at my dorm and a meet-and-greet with current students from the Law Faculty. The prospect of these social get-togethers makes it a little easier for me to say good-bye to my friends here in Berlin. Being able to keep in touch with them via video calls and Instagram makes me extra confident that the friendships will definitely survive my time abroad.
About to take the plunge
As I write this blog post, it's only 48 hours until I'll be standing at the gate waiting for the plane to take me to the UK. Even though I'm a little anxious, I'm also really looking forward to the opportunities that England offers: going to famous football stadiums, trying the British cuisine and learning to recreate the dishes – and of course studying new areas of law.
Joining the English equivalent of HU's Juristischer Fußballklub (JFK) will be another highlight for me. After playing for two years here in Berlin, I am eager to demonstrate German football skills to the KCL Football Club players :)
I have to say that I feel comfortable and safe in familiar situations, and sometimes really need phases where I am on my own. Nevertheless, I believe that this new challenge is an opportunity to grow. My experiences have taught me: taking the plunge is usually worth it!
(Published 18 September 2023)