I started my morning with a walk around Augsburg, taking in all the sites and landscapes I got to call home for the past two weeks. It gave me a lot of time to think and reminisce about my experience abroad. I was surprised with how many things were connected in Germany. Every site or cultural visit we went on had a connection to German history. Everyone was very open about the trauma that came with World War II and how their company, or site changed from that. The Germans are not afraid to talk about their history and the tour guide at Dachau said they do it to teach others and never let something like that happen again. I don’t think anyone can truly understand the impact of World War II unless they visit a concentration camp like Dachau. It makes everything seem so real and the impact was greater than any history textbook has explained. It’s something that I will have a hard time communicating to others because the feelings I had were indescribable and unlike anything I had ever felt. I will be sharing these experiences through the things I saw and what was explained to me by the tour guide. Every tour and experience we had on this trip has been unforgettable and I don’t think I’ve ever learned so much in such a short period of time.

As I finalized my Audi Industry Analysis Presentation, I saw how much I learned. I came in with little knowledge in the auto industry, but as I got ready to present I saw how much I have grown and learned on this trip. I think my group did really well on the presentation. My team members had limited time to meet in person, but nonetheless it all came together and everyone performed well. I really enjoyed working with the University of Augsburg students. It was fun getting to collaborate with those who have different backgrounds and to get to know one another. At the farewell dinner, the end of the trip started to feel real. I realized that I might never see my project teammates and new German friends again and I am very sad. It feels like our friendships just begun, but I hope to stay in touch with them all.