We are now well into 2024, so it's time to look back at the Alumni Scholars from last year. And time for all us alumni out there to think about renewing our SAGSE membership and making a contribution towards this year's SAGSE Alumni Scholarship(s). Ed has written the comprehensive report you can read below, and both boys have contributed some photos. They are pictured catching up with the editor soon after returning from Germany in February.
It is impossible to describe my wonderful experience in a few sentences. From my first time seeing snow, to making lifelong friends, touring all around Germany, skiing in Austria, watching the magnificent Borussia Dortmund to the smell of Glühwein at Christmas markets and traditional Raclette dinners – it was everything and more. When I arrived at Kassel Hbf, stepping out of the train full of excitement and anticipation, I was immediately greeted by the loving embrace of my host family – Anke, Stefan, Mats (my host brother), Jan und Ida as well as a close friend Laurenz. Meeting my host family for the first time, who I can now whole-heartedly call a second family, was so special. The first week was full of action and awesome experiences. I attended "Wilhelmsgymnasium" in Kassel and little did I know in that first class on a Thursday, that the people surrounding me would become lifelong friends and some of the most amazing people I have ever met.
Previously, I was unaware how Christmas functioned in Germany. "Heiliger Abend" (the 24th) is when the traditional Christmas festivities occur. After a seemingly normal breakfast and morning, it all changes in the early afternoon after church. This marks the beginning of Christmas and walking out after a handful of beautiful hymns everyone broke out with jolly "Frohe Weihnachten." Traditional Kaffee und Kuchen back at the grandparents' house was followed by a shared reading of the German Christmas story (so wholesome) and then exchanging gifts. It was lovely to see the faces of Mats and my host family as they unwrapped my presents and I could not believe how generous they were to me. Ski goggles, a Kassel hoodie, German calendar and much more! Another highlight of the trip was the Bundesliga match between BVB and RB Leipzig at Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund. My host family are massive Dortmund fans, so to ensure I had a place to sleep I also became a die-hard Dortmund fan. I could not wait to watch a Bundesliga game in real life and see "die gelbe Wand" (the Yellow Wall) with my own eyes! I vividly remember walking up the stairs and my first sighting of the sheer sea of yellow and black – flags waving, fans chanting and singing – I still get goosebumps now every time I think about it.
Another major highlight was the visit to Neuschwanstein during Free Travel! Utterly breathtaking. Miranda, Will, Jessie and I ventured to this magical castle situated close to the Austrian border. The lake, accompanied by snowy mountains and a luscious forest nearby to the castle was the most beautiful sight I have ever seen. As if this trip could get any better, Free Travel was immediately followed by a quick stopover to meet up with my host family in Oberstdorf and then skiing in Austria! I was very grateful to join Mats and his year level on their ski trip to Saalbach Hinterglemm for an awesome week. I had never been skiing before and it was challenging on the first day. The skiing instructors were lovely and patient as along with the 20-person strong beginner group, I attempted some turns with shouts of "Pizza" or "Pommes" in the background. On the second day skiing, something clicked. Turning became so much easier and I grew in confidence as I sped down the slopes with a big smile on my face. The enjoyment only grew as the week progressed, skiing from sunrise to sunset with a band of dear friends and great instructors such as Annika.
The "Abschlussfeier" or Goodbye Party, which my host family held for me on my final day in Kassel, was so emotional and immensely special. It was one of the happiest and saddest days of my life. Rejoicing and being grateful at the time we had together, but saddened by the realisation it was ending. I was overwhelmed by everyone's generosity as they brought gifts, cards, signed a massive German flag for me and much more. For some it might have been goodbye, but for the majority it was see you later or "bis bald" – I am not finished with Germany just yet!
This trip has made me more independent, confident, self-assured and knowledgeable. I was super pleased that I could understand the conversations and extend my German. I feel so happy with the wonderful progress I made. From the outset of the trip I endeavoured to speak only German and I stood by my promise! Aside from some English with the other Stipis of course. It has further ignited my passion for Germany and now with all the wonderful, special family and friends I have met, I cannot wait to return to see them again, as well as explore more cities. My heart has grown, my mind extended and I am so thankful to my sponsor Ian Upjohn KC, and my fabulous host family, the people I met, the SAGSE and GDANSA pals I made and this most life-changing opportunity. I am also studying a Diploma of Languages in German at University, and not surprisingly, it is my favourite subject!
An anniversary year is a great opportunity to get back in touch with some of the people you went on exchange with, and collectively donate a scholarship to a worthy recipient in 2024. Please email us at alumni.vic@sagse.org.au if you would like more information on this process.
Without the generosity of previous SAGSE scholarship recipients, neither Alec nor Ed would have been able to have these wonderful formative experiences. Here is the link again for you to contribute what you can through SAGSE membership and a scholarship donation, so that we can once again sponsor at least one deserving 2024 secondary student of German in this way.
As we all get older, having a chat with your solicitor next time you amend your will is another way you might wish to consider leaving a legacy to the next generation.