The moment I landed in Germany, I felt a rush of excitement like never before. It was my first time away from my family, and the adventure that awaited me was a mystery. Schmalkalden, a charming city, was my destination. I had come to study at FH Schmalkalden University of Applied Sciences, and as an introvert, I wasn't sure how I would find my place.The first few weeks were a bit challenging. I felt like a stranger in a strange land. But, gradually, something magical started to happen. At events like Thüringen Day and more, I met people from my university, and we instantly clicked. We were a diverse group, and I was surprised to find a friend from the United States amongst us.Every day, my newfound friends and I eagerly attended the events organized by the university for Erasmus students. These gatherings became our lifeline, offering a taste of German culture, forging new friendships, and creating unforgettable memories.As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, my life in Schmalkalden began to take on a unique rhythm. I started to feel like a true resident of this charming German town. The quaint streets, lined with half-timbered houses and the picturesque Thüringen countryside, became my backdrop for countless adventures.One of the things that amazed me the most was the people I met along the way. In our close-knit group of Erasmus students, we represented a mosaic of cultures and backgrounds. Sharing stories of our homelands over cups of rich German coffee or hearty local cuisine became a daily ritual. My American friend and I often joked that we had brought the taste of our countries with us to Germany – a blend of American pancakes and Turkish baklava.But Erasmus was about more than just one place. It was about exploring Europe in all its grandeur. I was fortunate enough to venture beyond the borders of Germany and experience the continent's diverse offerings. Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals and artistic flair, was a memorable stop. It was my second dream city after Germany, and the memories of wandering its historic streets and taking in the art and culture will forever be etched in my heart.Paris, the City of Light, enchanted me with its romantic ambiance and iconic landmarks. Italy, with its rich history and mouthwatering cuisine, was a gastronomic delight. And Belgium, with its exquisite chocolates and medieval towns, added yet another layer of wonder to my European journey. Each Erasmus event was a delightful surprise. I found myself not just a student but an explorer, tasting sausages at local food festivals and mastering the art of ordering bratwurst in my still-improving German. The academic aspect was equally fulfilling. SUOS was a hub of innovation and knowledge, and my professors were not just educators but mentors who encouraged me to think beyond textbooks. I learned that Erasmus was not just about studying; it was about expanding horizons and embracing the beauty of diversity. Erasmus was a transformative experience. I discovered facets of myself that I hadn't known before. The introverted student who had landed in Germany was now a confident global citizen, comfortable in her own skin and ready to face the world with open arms. As the semester drew to a close, I realized that my heart was split between two homes – one in the place where I was born and another in the welcoming arms of Schmalkalden. My Erasmus story had come full circle, leaving me with friendships that would endure across continents and memories that would be etched in my heart forever.