Aliana Arzola
Aliana Arzola (she/her) - Stanford in Berlin
Major: International Relations
Minor: German Studies & Economics
College year while abroad: Sophomore
About the photo: This was me taking my parents around the heart of Mitte (and hence, Berlin) when they came to visit. Walking around the Museumsinsel and Lustgarten area during golden hour was such a highlight, especially since it was so peaceful that day!
Contact
Email Aliana or schedule an appointment
Q&As
Why did you choose to study in Berlin?
I have been captivated by Germany ever since they won the 2014 FIFA World Cup (they’re my dad’s favorite national team). I have used online resources to learn German since I was 10, on and off. Since I love language learning, Berlin was ideal for developing this love of the language further! Also, as an IR major, learning about history and change fascinates me, especially the Cold War. Living and learning in the city that essentially encapsulates what the Cold War was, was as exciting as it was a challenge. In short, it had everything I was looking for in a program: cultural and historical richness, a great location in Europe, amazing academics, and a bustling city environment.
What were your expectations before you went and how did they change once you were in Berlin?
It was only my second time in Europe and my first time in Germany when arriving in Berlin. However, I’ve been interested in German culture, politics, and history for a while. I’d watch videos like Meet The Germans all the time, which gave me some bias on “how things worked”. However, despite having all that in mind, most if not all of my preconceived notions were quickly shattered. Whether that was understanding cultural and attitude nuances on a personal level, taking part in customs like quick grocery store checkouts, or seeing the real Berlin the cameras don’t show, I was more than pleasantly blown away by the Berlin I encountered.
What were some of the academic benefits from studying abroad in Berlin?
Definitely the tight-knit classes you can take. In my time, three out of the four classes (except for Berlin vor Ort) had less than 13 people! I had the chance to take a one-on-one German class (I happened to be the only one to take it!), which was amazing for my conversation skills. Our Contemporary Theater class also just had 3 students in-class, which made for a great experience for in-depth discussions and practicing our German. Aside from this aspect, I also highly recommend using the time abroad to explore academically! I took everything from Medical Ethics to Globalization to Theater (if you’re unsure, it’s great for WAYs!)
What did you learn about yourself while studying abroad?
I learned a lot about how to use organization to my advantage in a healthy way! As soon as I got into the program, I began budgeting to be able to travel, looked into the ins-and-outs of the city, and thought about what I wanted to get out of this. However, what I expected to be tightly-run schedules turned into more relaxed, slower-paced moments. I often decided to just take my time with things and see what best fit the moment. I learned that I enjoyed seeing the smaller, unexpected moments in Berlin as much as I did the organized bits. It’s okay if things change! I really enjoyed seeing that about myself, as it allowed me more spontaneous and organic experiences.
What was the most challenging experience you encountered while abroad and what did you learn from it?
Despite having wished to study abroad forever, the actual logistics of *being* abroad were more challenging than expected. From having 6-9 hour time differences with my friends and family to no longer having the community of a dorm or the convenience of a dining hall, it was a change I did not think would be a factor. However, despite the unfamiliar environment, new routines, and different angle of independence, I made sure to create a compromise between keeping in touch back home, living in the moment in all Berlin had to offer, and using the “discomfort” to push myself to explore, live, and change in the city.
What was the biggest cultural adjustment you had to make?
I’m from the hot and humid Caribbean, sooo no AC or ice in your drinks was challenging ;) In all seriousness–the biggest adjustment was that Berliners are direct with what they say. Sometimes, this led to misunderstandings at the beginning. However, this allowed me to filter my thoughts more and become a better advocate for myself. Without losing kindness, sharing some of that Berliner directness allowed me to speak up for what I wanted and not let anything fall to the wayside. As I worked through the summer, this proved helpful and really important as a part of my professional development.
What was your favorite part of everyday life?
I loved taking public transportation! I don’t live in a place with accessible public transportation…and I hate driving. Having four types of public transport (bus, tram, S-Bahn or overground rail, U-Bahn or subway) was mind-blowing. I loved going anywhere with relative ease! The Berlin transportation system is extensive and easy to navigate, so it was definitely a plus. It helped me maximize my time in the city. It was also fun to people-watch, sit and just look out the window on the S-Bahn, listen to music, or read. It helped me have a bit of downtime on otherwise busy days.
What was the most memorable experience you had while in Berlin?
Without a doubt experiencing the UEFA European Football (Soccer) Championships being hosted throughout Germany. Having such an anticipated event in our backyard and throughout the city was absolutely exhilarating–I was all in. Seeing the banners, fan zones in Brandenburg Gate, and even the Treptower Park statues dressed in uniforms, gave me an amazing sense of the spirit of the city. Even though we lost in the quarterfinals (sigh) I still enjoyed watching the games and seeing the clear electrified spirit all around.
What 5 words would you use to describe the experience?
Challenging, new, gratifying, genau, and wanderlust.
What was your favorite food or music?
While there are plenty of dishes I can recommend here, I can’t talk enough about grocery store pastries. They are genuinely fresh, delicious, and a third of the price of anything at a bakery. If you’re tight on your stipend money, a warm 70 cent pain au chocolat always hits. Especially from Lidl and Edeka!!! (Also, spargel, or white asparagus, in spring!)
What was the most valuable item you took on the program?
Navigation apps. And an umbrella. Never underestimate German weather :)
Please share some details about your experience? Who did you work with, what did you do and what did you learn from it?
I’m currently writing this as I wrap up another day of my internship! I’m completing the Krupp Internship program, which you can do too, if you come to Berlin for a quarter first ;) I have interned with several non-profits, projects, and non-governmental organizations around the city under the umbrella of Schöneberg Hilft e.V. Through the summer, I’ve worked broadly on refugee, intercultural, and migrant affairs through a mix of direct and indirect assistance. I’ve been able to cultivate my event planning, direct contact with refugees, English-German translation, graphic design, Excel/Notion, and plenty of other skills as I’ve switched assignments and worked in places around Berlin! It’s been incredibly fulfilling to see the culture of solidarity here, and be a part of it in any way I can.