Now that I’ve been home for a few days, I can already say I miss Germany more than expected. This trip was truly something special, and I know I will carry the memories with me for a long time. From the places we visited to the people I met, the experience exceeded every expectation I had going in.

One of the biggest takeaways for me is how valuable it is to step outside your home country and experience life elsewhere. The differences in culture, daily routines, infrastructure, and even something as simple as how people interact really open your eyes. It makes you realize there isn’t just one way to live.

The company visits were a huge part of that learning. Getting to walk through manufacturing plants and actually see how things are made was something I’d never done before. It was especially interesting because large-scale manufacturing isn’t as visible in the U.S. anymore. Seeing how efficient, clean, and precise those factories were gave me a whole new appreciation for the complexity of global supply chains and the level of coordination it takes to bring a product to market.

But without a doubt, the best part of the trip was the people. Our group clicked in a way that felt really natural, and it made every day more fun, whether we were exploring a new city, sitting on a train, or just grabbing dinner. Traveling with people you genuinely enjoy being around makes all the difference. I truly feel like I’ve made some lifelong friends, and I’m so grateful we got to share this experience together.

This trip wasn’t just about getting three credits. It was about gaining a new perspective, building real connections, and creating memories that I’ll never forget. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to start the summer.