Gökçe Nur Çığlı comes from Turkey, where she is studying psychology at Özyeğin University. Her friends encouraged her to take part in the exchange, which brought her to the Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences Berlin in the winter semester 2024-2025. In this interview, she talks about language challenges, cultural aha moments and her personal development during her exchange semester at ASH Berlin.
How did you cope linguistically during your semester abroad - both in your studies and in everyday life?
The teaching language at my home university is English, so academically I did not have much difficulty. But I do not speak English in my daily life, so getting used to it was actually a bit difficult. My speaking skills have improved so much, and I am more comfortable speaking English with other people. Sometimes I could not translate some things while speaking, but my friends still understood me from my hand gestures or my Turkish friends helped me.
In classes teachers were so kind while we spoke English, and always comforted us when we were having trouble with English. Sometimes they waited for us to use Google Translate or ask our friends.
In the German case, I took a German course at ASH Berlin, and I think it helped me a lot. I did not have to use German in my daily life so much, but knowing the basics always helped me. Sometimes I tried to deal with my problems in basic German, but if I could not deal in basic German, I used Google Translate.
Were there any cultural differences or surprises during your stay in Germany that you had to get used to?
I actually did not have a big culture shock since there is a huge Turkish community in Berlin. But one of the culture shocks I faced was that almost everything was closed on Sundays. I actually had a hard time getting used to it at first—I always forgot it! In Turkey, Sundays are usually very active; shops, cafes, and malls are open, and people go out. But in Germany, Sunday is truly a day of rest. After a few failed attempts to buy groceries on a Sunday, I eventually adjusted to this system, and doing all my shopping on Saturdays became my new routine. Another culture shock was on New Year’s Day. I was genuinely surprised by how early people started setting off fireworks—hours before midnight—and how it continued nonstop throughout the night. What really struck me was seeing almost everyone on the Streets and in the metro carrying bags full of fireworks or holding them in their hands, even in the middle of the day. In Turkey, fireworks are usually only set off at exactly midnight, and it lasts just a few minutes. So, witnessing such an extended and intense celebration in Germany felt strange to me at first, even a little overwhelming. But in a way, it also reflected the energetic and festive spirit people have when welcoming the new year.
Did you also travel to other countries or cities during your semester abroad and what did you experience?
While doing my exchange semester, I visited seven countries, including Germany! I visited Cologne, Dresden, Potsdam, Prague, Budapest, Vienna, Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris. I realized that I really enjoy travelling and exploring new places. I visited some places alone, some with my friends. When I was with my friends, I believe that I made the best memories. I enjoy being with my friends, trying local foods, and visiting historical places. My first trip
outside of Germany was to Prague, and I think that one has a lasting impression on me. I was on a solo trip abroad for the first time, and I was so excited. I felt so independent and free during my trip. It was a journey that pushed me out of my comfort zone.
How did your exchange semester change or influence you personally?
My exchange semester had a huge impact on my personal development. It was the first time I lived abroad on my own, away from my family, friends, and everything familiar. This experience helped me become more independent and confident in myself. I became more aware of different ways of thinking and living, and I started to appreciate diversity even more. I learned how to get out of my comfort zone. Also, being part of an international community influenced me a lot. I learned how other cultures live, and some things changed my perspective about things. My friend group was so mixed in terms of nationalities. I think that we influenced each other in many ways.
What skills were you able to develop during your exchange semester?
There are so many skills that I have adapted during my exchange semester. Now, I am more adaptive. Living in a foreign country, where even the smallest things like grocery shopping or public transportation can be different, forced me to adapt quickly. When I was visiting other countries, I adapted to the differences more quickly than I thought :) I became more confident in speaking English, without thinking “Am I saying it right?”, and I am more comfortable while expressing myself. I think this will be beneficial for me in the future too. Lastly, managing the balance between school and travelling helped me to develop problem-solving and time-management skills. I realized how I am actually capable of doing many things.
How did your exchange semester influence your academic and career plans?
I believe that my exchange semester will have a very positive impact on both my academic and professional future. Academically, studying in a different university environment gave me new perspectives on social studies. I was exposed to different teaching styles and classroom dynamics, which broadened my knowledge. I had always considered pursuing future opportunities abroad, such as a master’s degree or participating in international research projects, and my exchange experience only strengthened this desire. I definitely plan to maintain links with ASH Berlin. Teachers and international office staff were so kind and supportive towards exchange students. I am still in contact with my friends from ASH Berlin, and we are planning to visit Berlin together again.
What advice would you give to other students who are planning an exchange semester?
My biggest advice for other students who are thinking about participating in an exchange program is to do it! You should give an exchange semester a try because it is DEFINITELY worth it! It may feel a bit scary at first—leaving home, adjusting to a new country, and studying in a different system—but it is truly a life-changing experience. You will be a different person (in a good way :) ) at the end of your semester. It may seem like a long process, but it actually goes by in the blink of an eye—make sure to enjoy every moment of it.
