UC International co-op – what's that?

The international co-op is completed as your 4th and 5th co-op rotations so, around the time of my 3rd co-op rotation, I was actively applying and interviewing for jobs in Germany, my preferred country. I finally received an interview and a few weeks later I accepted an offer from Karl Storz Endoscopy. I was all smiles because my dreams were finally coming true. UC had me enroll in a few courses to prepare me for language, culture shock, and how to be professional in different cultures. At the same time, I was working with my new company to navigate the visa process and search for housing options. 

The best I can do to sum up my international co-op is to say that it was one of the best experiences of my life. It was a challenge, but one that I am so glad I took on. When I landed in Germany all I knew was the house I was living in and the company I was working at. When I left Germany, I had so many friends to say goodbye to and memories that I will never let go of. 

The second key part of the international co-op experience was learning about other cultures and making the most of my time in Europe. During my seven months abroad, I traveled to a total of 14 countries with new friends I had made and sometimes by myself. I tried lots of amazing food and got to see so many cool places. I skied in the Austrian Alps, went canoeing in Croatia, saw Buckingham Palace, swam in the sea at the Blue Beach in Nice, drove on the F1 circuit in Monaco, hiked in Lichtenstein, visited Zürich and Hamburg and Berlin, and so much more. I learned that you always have to be prepared for the unpredictable (especially with public transportation) and to enjoy the little things in life. Best of all, I met one of my best friends and built a life I had dreamed of.