My name is Anne Eloi, and I participated in the Bioscience Breakthroughs in Germany program. During my study abroad experience in Berlin, I expected cultural differences to show up mostly in big ways, like language, food, traditions, or historical landmarks. Those things were definitely important, but what surprised me most was how much I learned from small everyday habits.
One of the first things I noticed was how people treated jaywalking. Back home, people usually cross the street whenever it looks safe, even if the light is red. In Berlin, I often saw people wait for the signal, even when there were no cars coming. At first, I honestly thought it was unnecessary. But after a while, I started realizing it was about more than just crossing the street. It showed me that public rules mattered, even in small moments where nobody was forcing people to follow them.
I noticed the same kind of trust in public transportation. People would get on buses and trains with their passes, and most of the time nobody checked them. Inspections happened sometimes, but not constantly. What stood out to me was that people still paid anyway. The system depended a lot on trust and on the idea that everyone had a responsibility to do their part. That made me think about how different societies create order, not just through rules, but through shared expectations.
Even the quietness on public transportation taught me something. People seemed very aware that they were sharing space with others. They kept their voices low and respected the environment around them. It was simple, but it showed consideration.
Studying abroad in Berlin changed the way I observe the world. I realized culture is not only found in museums, landmarks, or celebrations. It also shows up in the little routines people repeat every day without thinking. This experience made me reflect on my own habits and assumptions about respect, responsibility, and community. More importantly, it reminded me that studying abroad is not just about visiting a new place. It is about learning to see everyday life from a new perspective.