This may look like an innocent bowl of porridge. Perhaps nicely cooked oatmeal with a dash of cinnamon on top. But I am here to tell you: Do not be fooled, my friends. This is haleem (حلیم). I have listened to my husband tell the tale of haleem for a while now. He told me … Continue reading Haleem
When I started the Orientierungskurs, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The course is required for integration (in other words, for students who need to satisfy BAMF requirements for immigration purposes). In my case, I already have a two-year German residence and work permit, but I need to complete the integration program to renew that … Continue reading What to Expect from the BAMF Orientierungskurs
It sounds funny to say that I am taking an “orientation course” after living in Germany for over a year, but that’s exactly what I’m doing. It’s the second-to-last step in my German integration. (The last step is the language exam I’m taking in February.) My Orientierungskurs started on Monday. Like my language class, it’s around four … Continue reading Getting Oriented
I always feel like I’m a little late finding out about special events here. Just last week, I was sitting at my desk when I heard music coming from outside. I peered out the window, and there was a little procession going by. A person on a horse was at the lead, followed by crowds … Continue reading St. Martin’s Day in Aachen
In my German class today, we talked about fairy tales. Our teacher brought up the story of „Rotkäppchen” (“Little Red Riding Hood”). After helping us describe the characters and the story, she asked us if we have the same story in our native languages. Everyone did, so we each wrote the title on the board—in … Continue reading Diversity in Germany
Expat Linguist 