World Women's Day Interview with Sammy

Hello Sammy, could you please introduce yourself briefly? Tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to share your story

Sure! My name is Sammy and I come from the beautiful state of Kentucky in America. I am here today because living abroad has always been my dream. I'm passionate about inspiring other women to pursue their dreams, big or small, and showing them that anything is attainable. Living abroad has its challenges, but I want to encourage women to face even unpleasant challenges because they often lead to incredible experiences.

What aspects of your life and personality define you the most?

I would say that my perseverance and openness define me. I may not always be the smartest person in the room, but I make up for it with hard work and determination. My involvement in theater and speech and drama courses has made me the woman I am today. These experiences taught me the importance of accepting discomfort and failure as part of the path to success.

What does it mean to you to be a woman?

For me, being a woman means above all strength. Women are often expected to fulfill multiple roles at once – from caregivers to professionals – and it is inspiring to see women take on these responsibilities with grace and determination. Being a woman means breaking barriers and proving that women can achieve anything they set their minds to.

Starting a new chapter in a foreign country, especially as a young woman, can be scary. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when you arrived in Germany?

One ​​of the biggest challenges I faced was feeling misunderstood. Not speaking German led to moments of frustration, especially when people reacted with impatience or indifference. Additionally, moving during a politically charged time, such as the 2019 American presidential election, presented its own challenges. I had to carefully navigate conversations about my home country while trying to fit into a new culture. Learning the language was also a significant hurdle, but I persevered and am determined to continue improving my skills.

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Have you experienced any cultural biases or stereotypes about Americans or women that you had to deal with? If so, how did you deal with it?

Absolutely. A common stereotype I encountered as an American abroad was the assumption that all Americans only eat McDonald's. Don't get me wrong, I like to eat it sometimes too - but of course there's a lot more to it. In addition, derogatory comments about America were made in my presence, as if I were not in the room. I had to learn to address these situations confidently but tactfully. It is important to stand up for your heritage while promoting understanding and respect for different cultures.

What advice would you give other women who are considering studying abroad or building a life in a new country?

My advice is: just do it! Moving abroad doesn't have to be a permanent decision; it can be a part of your journey. Accept the challenges and uncertainties, knowing that the worst that can happen is returning home with invaluable experiences and lessons learned. Don't let fear or societal expectations stop you from pursuing your dreams.

You are known for your positive attitude and your joy of life. What helps you to always stay positive?

Self-reflection plays an important role in maintaining my positivity. When I face challenges or difficulties, I remember the good things in my life and the progress I have made. Finding joy in the little moments and practicing gratitude helps me stay motivated and optimistic.

Can you share a key moment that embodies the essence of your experience?

One ​​of my favorite memories from my early days in Germany was a spontaneous trip to Budapest with my best friend. Despite initial concerns, we just did it and had an incredibly great time with people from different cultures. It reinforced why I chose living abroad - the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life and expand your horizons.

How do you think women can empower, support and promote a sense of community in everyday life?

Empowering women starts with understanding and empathy. By acknowledging and empathizing with each other's experiences and individual life situations, we can create a supportive environment in which women feel empowered to pursue their goals and dreams. Whether it's offering a listening ear or celebrating each other's successes, small gestures of solidarity can make a big difference in fostering a sense of community among women.

What does World Women's Day mean to you?

For me, International Women's Day is a celebration of women's resilience, strength and achievements. I went to an all-girls school and our motto was "Women Who Make a Difference." And that is something that has accompanied me my whole life. Women can make a difference, our voices can be heard. International Women's Day is a day to remind ourselves of the progress we have made , and is a call to action to continue to advocate for gender equality. While there is still much work ahead, I believe it is important to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women around the world. That's what International Women's Day means to me.