My Conclusion: The Best Time of My Life in Seattle

Looking Back on My Time in the USA

Since June 1st, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to spend my semester abroad in Seattle – and now, in mid-September, it’s unbelievably hard to say goodbye. I’m leaving the city with tears in my eyes because I’ve completely fallen in love with it. For me, Seattle has become so much more than just a big city; it’s a place that instantly felt like home. Every day I found myself amazed again by how perfectly everything fits together here – the proximity to nature with mountains, forests, and water right at your doorstep, combined with the vibrant life of a bustling metropolis. But what impressed me most were the people. I’ve rarely met so many open-minded, positive, and inspiring individuals as I have here. The American mentality of dreaming big and just going for it, instead of overthinking everything, has changed me in so many ways.

My studies at City University of Seattle were also an experience I’ll never forget. I had expected the classes to be about the same size as in Germany – but sometimes I found myself sitting in a seminar with only three other students. That was unusual at first, but this personal atmosphere made the exchange so much more meaningful. The discussions were practical, the professors were incredibly dedicated, and you could tell how much emphasis was placed on individual support. I’m especially grateful for how much my English improved. At some point, I stopped even thinking about which language I was speaking – even in business situations, it just came naturally. That has given me so much confidence for the future.

The most beautiful part, however, was the people I met along the way. I made friends from all over the world, and together we created memories I’ll carry with me forever: a Huskies football game that felt just like in an American movie, legendary house parties, countless evenings in coffee shops, spontaneous shopping trips, and weekend adventures – to Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and even Vancouver, which is only a few hours away. There were so many moments that felt like pure joy, and I truly wished I could have stayed longer. Looking back, three months were far too short.

This semester abroad has changed me. I’ve become more confident, learned how to navigate a completely new environment, and discovered how much I love international experiences. Most importantly, I now know that one day I want to return to the U.S. – not just for a vacation, but to actually live here. This time abroad wasn’t just another chapter of my studies; it was a life chapter that showed me how big the world is and how many opportunities it holds. I’m incredibly grateful that I had this chance – and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

Seattle, you’ll forever be my favorite memory.