Living In Berlin

In October, I began my search for an apartment in Berlin. Anyone who's tried to find a place in Berlin knows how complicated of a task it is. I continuously searched for places to live and emailed student dorms, Erasmus networks (EU international student networks), and hostels, with no luck. After days of looking at several websites, I finally found a place to live! A few days before finding my apartment, I had my interview for an internship. I still hadn’t found out if I had gotten the internship position, but I knew that if I didn’t immediately book the apartment, it would be taken within the next few hours. So, I took a leap of faith, booked the apartment, and signed all the documents. 

There were a few worries that I had while booking the apartment. My roommates (of all genders) could be up to 35 years old. Now, that’s not necessarily a bad thing, but I was nervous I’d end up living with several 35-year-old dudes... Not the most ideal situation for a female my age, haha! In the end, I still booked the apartment and was hopeful that it would all work out. 

When I moved to Berlin, and walked into my apartment, I was immediately greeted by my roommate, Tommaso, who looked about my age. Thank God, I thought!! At least one person is a student! After introducing ourselves, he asked me if I would like an Italian coffee. I set my suitcases in my room and sat at the kitchen table to have a coffee with him. He expressed that he was from Rome and is currently pursuing a degree at a university here in Berlin. It was my first time having an Italian coffee and exchanging a conversation with someone from Rome. I was overjoyed! Are you kidding me, I thought. I get to live with someone from Rome, Italy?! Ahh, this is amazing! Then, throughout the week, I met my other roommates- who were just as nice and welcoming. Plus, they were all young adults! They are also from amazing places including Spain, Belgium, Peru, and Mexico. 

Last week, I taught them how to play Spoons, and they taught me how to play a fun European card game that we've been playing quite a bit :) It’s been such an incredible experience living with individuals who are from all over the world!! And I’m soooo happy that I followed my heart, signed the apartment contract, and am living in Berlin!