Settling into Leipzig

Submitted by Joey Miller on the 2024 Winter LLCU program in Leipzig, Germany…

Inside the St. Mary’s Cathedral

My Study Abroad trip started back in Philadelphia just before boarding the plane. When I arrived I was able to find most of my fellow travelers and get to know them before going to Leipzig. Arriving in Frankfurt we had the first culture shock moment. This was my first experience in another country and I didn’t understand customs yet, although quickly I was able to use my minor German experience to help me get through safely and quickly. When we arrived in Leipzig we first had a little bus ride in which we saw the city, it was beautiful from the start and it still is absolutely amazing in my opinion. We first met at the Augustusplatz, near the city center. The Augustusplatz has a fountain in the center which is absolutely amazing to see in person. Many fellow travelers were very friendly and welcoming and I spent the first night exploring the city and hanging out with friends. During the first week we met at the school and met our teachers who are all extremely friendly and helpful, I was also able to meet other international students including my friend Jacob from New Zealand. Then we traveled to Erfurt and that city was even more beautiful. Here in Erfurt we saw the St. Mary’s Cathedral (Merchant’s Bridge) and many of the historical houses and shops on the Krämerbrücke. Finishing out our week we saw the Völkerschlachtdenkmal (Battle of the Nations) which is a monument commemorating the Battle of Leipzig and the fallen during such. This is only the start and I cannot wait to see what else this trip will bring (Submitted on January 7, 2024).