Final Essay

250-500 words per essay 1. When I was exploring where I wanted to study abroad Berlin stood out to me for several reasons. As a film major I am very interested by German cinema, both its history and current film movements. Some of the most interesting movements in film have come from Germany. German expressionism is one such movement. Films like The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari and Metropolis exploded what was thought to be possible in the medium. Studying the rich tradition of German cinema in its birthplace is something that I greatly look forward to. Another goal that I have is to explore the city of Berlin, Germany as a whole, and even surrounding countries. Ever since I was little traveling and exploring the world has been something that

In connection to experiencing another culture is its art. Connecting with and participating in the art scene in Berlin is another goal that I have. Berlin is booming as a cultural hub with many artists, designers, and filmmakers moving or visiting there in order to experience this rich cultural moment. I would consider myself lucky if I got to as well. The last goal that I have is similar to my Film Studies goal. I have a minor in Women and Gender Studies, and plan to take several classes surrounding this subject abroad. Berlin, and Germany as a whole, has a rich history of gender theory and gender based activism. As with the art movement in Berlin, gender activism is also having a major impact on the cultural makeup of the city and I would be delighted to participate in that

After I decided on the program in Berlin, I began to think about how I could further explore my heritage while in this region. My grandmother and grandfather were refugees of the Holocaust for years before finally settling in the United States, where my dad was born. They were living in Warsaw during the Nazi invasion of the city, and my grandfather fought in the resistance. Not only would I be interested in visiting Poland, but I also would enjoy going to the many museums around Germany about the Holocaust and its survivors. I am really excited to learn more about what my family has been through, and visit the sites that it happened. In addition, I think that it will be interesting, and possibly challenging, to visit as an American under this current administration and political climate. Our relations with Germany, and Europe as a whole, have gone downhill since Trump came into office. As someone who considers themselves progressive and committed to social justice it may be hard to go to another country where the example of an American is Donald Trump. I hope that I can be an ambassador of the Americans who stand against injustice and Trumpism if I get the opportunity to go abroad. Lastly, as a white, non-religious visitor to Germany I know that I will be treated differently than the Arabic and Muslim immigrants who are currently fleeing to Germany. I have more privilege than the immigrants coming to Germany, and I will work to use that privilege to help refugees and