Bernd Verst
Gronau, Germany
Mathematics, Computer Science
Before coming to Macalester, I traveled extensively
with my family and our goal was always to get to know
other cultures. Despite visiting places popular with
locals and avoiding tourist hotspots, we hardly ever
found ourselves talking to the local people about anything
other than directions and food.
But from day one at Macalester I’ve found students
from all around the globe right here, eager to share
their culture and experiences. I finally find myself really
talking with people from most of the countries I have
visited. Now I have the opportunity to ask questions
about my experiences. I also get to discuss events
happening around the world with people directly
affected by them.
Every day I learn from students about such things as
inflation in Zimbabwe and Taiwan’s struggle for recognition.
These experiences continuously open my
eyes to a more global perspective. I strongly feel that
only now at Macalester am I truly getting to know the
cultures and people of countries I have visited—and
many I’ve never seen.
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