Before this trip, I never imagined I’d make real connections in just two weeks, but by the time we left, I was hugging my new German friends as if we had known each other for years.
From the very first day, we were paired with local student “buddies” from Hochschule München. They helped guide us through the program and through Munich itself. They offered recommendations, translated when needed, and answered every question we threw at them (we probably seemed like it was our first time on Earth). It started with small talk during lunches and lectures, but quickly turned into something more natural. Sitting together on the S-Bahn, cracking jokes, and sharing late-night snacks after dinner.
Some of our best conversations happened in the most casual settings: at Olympiapark watching the sunset, grabbing gelato after class, or walking through the city at night as a group. We talked about everything, from music and language to school and future plans. I loved seeing how quickly we found common ground. One of the most spontaneous and fun memories was playing a soccer match with a few of the buddies in the English Garden. It was such a simple moment, but it made the connection feel real.
On our last night, my roommate and I stayed up late reminiscing about the trip and sharing stories from the past two weeks. It hit me then how much had changed in such a short time. Not just in what I’d learned, but in the people I’d met and the connections we’d built. That moment really stayed with me because it wasn’t about tourism or travel anymore. It was about belonging and realizing that we’d created something meaningful across cultures.
Even though we only had two weeks together, I genuinely hope these friendships last. My group is still in touch with several of the buddies, and I’m already daydreaming about a reunion. Maybe one day I can bring them to Pittsburgh (or, in my case, even Mexico) and return the hospitality.
Looking back, I’m still amazed at how quickly those friendships formed and how naturally they continue. We’ve already shared music recs, inside jokes, and follow-up photos from our daily lives, and I hope that momentum doesn’t stop. There’s something really special about forming connections across cultures, especially when those connections are built through shared curiosity and openness. I didn’t expect to leave Germany with a new community, but that’s exactly what happened.
Swanson School of Engineering 