Another cultural shock was the way people in Germany love and cherish pets, especially dogs. Many people own a pet or two, and love galivanting around with the pets. This is so unusual in Cameroon, that is why I was scared of pets at the beginning. However, I soon realised that the pets are harmless and very friendly.Furthermore, I still struggle with the train and tram system. There are just so many and it is difficult to master them. Mostly because to me, the streets are so much alike that I am likely to confuse one for another.
Nevertheless, my first impressions of life in Karlsruhe and at the university are very positive. So far in Germany, I have had a good time at PH Karlsruhe. We have been attending some courses like “Decolonial Praxis” offered by Prof. Dr. Isabel Martin. In this course, the aim is to turn decolonial theory into practice, particularly via Critical Language Awareness as future English teachers. We aim to deconstruct course books, the enrollment process or module handbooks. Another course is “Decolonial English Languge Teaching”, which also focuses on decolonising the English language teaching system, different ideas on knowledge production and having exchanges with the other students. All in all, we are looking at how our thinking and actions influenced by colonialism can be decolonised through bi-directional exchange.
Furthermore, I have tried different types of German cuisine like: pretzel, döner, asparagus and ham with creamy sauce, schnitzel, aperol spritz, strawberry cheese cake, iced tea, apple cake, mashed potatoes with spinach, strawberries and much more. I have visited places like Heidelberg, Stuttgart, a Lake in Forst. To add to my first impressions, I have gone to a concert in Karlsruhe, played beer pong and had bicycle training. I also attended cultural activities like singing and theatrical performances. That has added even more fun to my stay in Germany so far.
I am grateful to the ASA team for bringing such opportunities. I’ll keep you in the loop about my activities and experiences in Germany.
With warm greetings,
Larissa Faiza Kongnso