AISHK Student’s Exchange Experience in Germany

Whaddya reckon to studying in Europe! Jeffrie Chen, Year 11 student, was keen to immerse herself in a new language, culture and education system. She found an opportunity to join a school exchange in Germany which was endorsed by the AISHK. Here she reflects on her seven-months overseas.

Jeffrie will rejoin her cohort next term and begin the IB Diploma Programme, with her studies in Germany contributing to her IB course.

My Exchange Experience in Germany

Seven months ago, I began my exchange program in Germany. Moving to a different country means adapting to a new culture, food, language, and school environment. Many aspects of daily life felt completely different. It took time to adjust, but living here has given me experiences I would never have had in Hong Kong.

The biggest challenge and the hardest thing to adjust to was learning German. The first few months here, I could barely understand what people were talking about, and even simple sentences were so difficult for me to pronounce. It is uncomfortable to speak a language that you are not confident in, and mistakes made it even worse, but gradually I started to understand more and communicate more confidently. Making mistakes is how we learn and grow. I can now follow most conversations in daily life and even join in without hesitating.

School life here is pretty much the same as AISHK since I am in a higher grade. Classes are challenging, and keeping up with work also requires discipline and self-control. The biggest difference, I would say, is that students don’t have to wear uniforms, and the study atmosphere feels more like studying at a university than at a secondary school. Students are expected to take responsibility for their own learning, manage their time and stay organised.

Other than regular schoolwork, I joined the Model United Nations (MUN) club, where students debate global issues and represent different countries. It has been challenging but rewarding, especially practising my language skills and public speaking skills while sharing ideas. I also joined a volleyball club outside of school. It makes me realise that sports really are the best way to connect with people and feel part of the community, even when you’re not good at their language.

A highlight and the most memorable experience so far has definitely been celebrating Christmas in Germany. The festive atmosphere in Europe is completely different from Hong Kong. Streets and markets are full of colourful lights, stalls sell traditional treats, decorations, and the air is filled with the scent of baked food and wine. Snow often covers the town in a soft white layer, turning the streets into something that feels like a scene from an old 80s movie. Visiting the markets, trying local food, spending time with family and friends and seeing the traditions in person made the holiday season unforgettable.

Living in a new country comes with challenges, especially at the start, but it also encourages growth. Over the past seven months, I’ve learned to adapt, to have courage, and to embrace opportunities I would not have otherwise. My exchange in Germany is continuing, and there are many more experiences ahead. So far, it has given me a broader perspective on life and the world beyond Hong Kong.