How Covid-19 has affected my Year Abroad experience

Rhiannon Morgan

Just over a year ago, I doubted I would get to go on my year abroad to Germany. The cohort before me either did their year “abroad” online, joining their respective universities everyday via Zoom, or had to suspend their third year of study. I thought I would have to make the same decision. It was only when the vaccine came about that we realised an actual year abroad could be an option. 

There was still so much uncertainty about what a year abroad would even look like — especially being the first post-Brexit cohort to go during a pandemic. Nobody could fully prepare us for what it would be like or the amount of red tape we would have to hurdle — I’ve been out here for nearly five months and have only just received my visa!

Life has not gone back to “normal”

Along with a residence permit, work permit, and setting up a German bank account, we’ve also struggled with Covid-19 paperwork. While the UK is currently getting back to some level of normality, over here in Bavaria, we have a 10pm curfew for bars and restaurants, as well as the 2G+ rule where you have to provide proof that you are ‘geimpft’ or ‘genesen’ (vaccinated or recovered) and have tested in the last 24 hours or more recently, have had your booster. When I first arrived in September, this was a 3G instead, which was then tightened to 2G and now 2G+ [Insert witty 5G Covid joke here]!

On top of these stresses, we’ve missed out on events which would have otherwise been highlights of a year abroad in Germany: Oktoberfest and Christmas Markets. I so looked forward to these world-famous German celebrations, but Covid was back to its usual tricks. I was gutted I wouldn’t get to experience these this year, however, I was determined to not let Covid stop me from spending time with new friends and travelling round towns and cities within Germany — or so I thought!

Isolation station im Ausland

After spending Christmas in the UK, I flew back to Germany but soon tested positive for Covid. Nevertheless, I surprised myself with just how well I coped against all odds. Having struggled with anxiety last year as a result of the stresses of the pandemic, I wasn’t sure how I would react to testing positive and having to isolate in a foreign country. I got through it and only cried once —  I would count that as a victory!

It’s all about self-growth

Despite all these trials and tribulations, I’ve had an incredible experience so far. I’ve still been able to see so much of Germany, meet new people, and learn about German culture. Above all, I’ve noticed myself grow in maturity and resilience. A year ago, I would not have coped with quarantining in my room on my own at home let alone abroad. I would’ve likely spiralled into my anxieties and wouldn’t have taken care of myself. But I now feel that through each hurdle I’ve overcome, I’ve become mentally stronger and more self-confident.

To anyone planning a year abroad, thinking about doing one, or even currently on one: it is tough! But that said, it can be a great experience for personal growth and seeing a completely different perspective of the world. Be kind to yourself, be patient, and don’t worry about “what if” until it actually happens.

Feature image courtesy of Rhiannon Morgan.