Germany Participant Voices Posters

Click the individual participant names below for each participant's full poster of post-travel reflections, photos, growth, and inspiration. 

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Rachel Pokornowski
Rachel, 2025

"You won't regret going, but you may look back years from now and regret not going." 

IPDS Student
Bailey, 2023

"The key to being a great educator does not lie in textbooks or lecture halls, but in the frequent exchange of thoughts and ideas."

Holly Krupski
Holly, 2019

"Studying abroad is an amazing thing. It completely changes you as an individual."

Amber Amato
Amber, 2017

"I’m more well-rounded and knowledgeable about other cultures, not just Germany. I can see things from a big-picture perspective and am confident in myself."

IPDS Student
Janessa, 2017

"I feel that I have grown as a student, future educator and person. For the first time in 20 years, I stepped out of my very small Buffalo bubble and learned so much about the world, different cultures and traditions, and how important it is to keep an open mind."

IPDS Student
Laci, 2017

"I took the leap and learned that I am able to follow my dreams - by myself - and can make friends easily. I became a stronger person."

IPDS Student
Sarah, 2017

"I did the things I feared most in a completely new environment, and it changed me in the best way. I truly stepped out of my comfort zone and am so different from the shy, nervous girl who left Buffalo for Germany."

IPDS Student
Shannon, 2017

"I now can navigate my way around a new place, and not become anxious about being by myself. I am so proud of the independence I not only developed but also became comfortable with."

IPDS Student
Amanda, 2015

"I grew as a teacher, student, and individual and found out things about myself that I am grateful to know. I feel more willing to work with and understand others; the payoff is making lasting friendships and memories."

IPDS Student
Dan, 2015

"Personally, I feel that I have gained a new perspective into the person that I want to be. Academically, I feel that I have grown more as an educator. I have seen new methods and strategies that I want to implement in my own classrooms."

IPDS Student
Kaitlynn, 2015

"Living with a host was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I did not feel like just a tourist but instead experienced the sites as well as everyday life “behind the scenes,” as if I was living there myself."