This experience was very fun and I am glad that I did it. I have been to Europe a couple of times and Germany once prior to this, but I had never been to Munich. It was nice to experience a new place and experience German culture for the second time ever.

One thing that stuck out to me about Munich is how much pride the people have for their city and their region of Germany, that being Bavaria.

What I learned:

I think the best thing I learned is how to meet people in a natural way and ask to interview them after just meeting them. My story allowed me the opportunity to work on building a reputation with someone quickly.

The approach I took was talking with them about the game that was currently happening and a couple of things related to what I would interview them about. If they seemed like a good source for my story and someone who could provide some good insight, I would mention my purpose for being in Munich and then ask if they would be willing to interview for about 5 minutes.

Continuing to learn about new cultures:

European, and French culture specifically, have been important to me and have been present in my life. My grandmother was French, so I have been to France a few times and grew up learning a bit more about that culture than the typical American.

I think this time in Germany has helped me become more aware of some European norms which helped my sports reporting for this experience.

I also got the opportunity to learn a new culture outside of just my career. I have always been passionate about learning more about Europe. I want to travel to all of Europe someday and this experience made me want to do that even more.

Change of perspective.

I don’t think my global perspective has changed as a whole, but I definitely have a bit more of an understanding of and appreciation for German culture than I did prior.

As far as how other countries address American football, I was surprised me by some people’s vast knowledge of American football. Some of the Europeans I talked to had been watching the sport for a long time. One of them had been watching for 15 years!

Posted: December 5, 2022
Category: CJC in Munich