Read previewThis as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Amanda Mrokez, an American student in Cologne, Germany. In 2021, I withdrew from Central Michigan University and moved to Germany to pursue a teaching degree at the University of Cologne. AdvertisementGermany is lacking school cultureParticipating in school culture was a big thing for me when I was in Michigan. My closet was full of Central Michigan University apparel, and everyone thought it was cool to wear hats and sweatshirts on campus. In Germany, students learn what they must study and what's best for them.

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Persons: —, Amanda Mrokez, it's, Erin, eliam@businessinsider.com Organizations: Service, Central Michigan University, University of Cologne, Business Locations: American, Cologne, Germany, Michigan