Embedded Files
"We were able to connect about many diverse topics which was surprising and thought provoking. It surprised me to learn how much my partner enjoys technology. We bonded about how we want to use technology to promote a fair platform for stories. I thought that our intergenerational difference would be very large. However, this notion was challenged when my partner shared stories about paragliding and his passion for exercise."
“I spoke with an elder from Hamburg on two occasions over Zoom. We discussed her life — her hobbies, family, and childhood — and found that we had a surprising amount in common. Learning about my partner was invigorating, and I found myself surprised at every turn in our conversations.”
“My speaking partner was quick to break the ice and was immediately quite warm and patient with me and through that kindness I was able to build my speaking confidence, even if I was making a lot of mistakes.”
“Because she was born in a different generation, my partner obviously experienced different things throughout her life which influenced her perspective, but if anything this only enriched our conversations.”
“My partner offered meaningful lessons and advice that I will definitely remember
throughout my life. [My partner] said to make sure to travel as much as I can and to take advantage of the opportunities in front of me.”
“The intercultural and intergenerational differences made our conversations more enriching and interesting. We were able to talk about history and politics, where the intercultural and intergenerational differences only helped add interesting perspectives and take in the conversation.”
“I learned so much from [my partner], especially during our second conversation. She reminded me a lot of my Oma based on the things that she had experienced and the stories that she could tell regarding the Berlin Wall. [My partner] said the most important thing in life is human connection and experiencing things.”
"[My partner] did not speak any English, so she could not help with any translations or missed words, which gave me the chance to rely on what I already knew. In addition, [she] worked as a journalist and a Sociology professor. These are two fields I have always found extremely interesting and considered pursuing myself. Therefore, it was a great experience to hear about her trials and tribulations in these industries, especially at a shifting time in Germany for women and politics. [She] shared with me that she only began working in journalism and the writing industry later in her life, and that she wished she had started earlier. She told me that many dismissed her ability and encouraged her to enter a “women’s occupation” rather than wanting to be a journalist. This was an excellent lesson for me to hear. It inspired me to follow my goals and desires and not be stopped by what others perceive of me or think is the right path for me."
“My partner was struggling in life. The pandemic created a barrier to her enjoying to sing in church; her family was disconnected from her - and what seemed to be the most preeminent topic taking space in her mind - injustice in Ukraine. It was interesting to hear that the sentiments at home in the US resonated even more ardently in Germany. My partner reported anguish and discontent with the situation, referencing Putin as psychotic. Perhaps Putin should have a conversation with [my partner] - a conscientious, kind, sensitive, and resilient person who I know could very well instill some sense in him…My partner is a tough cookie, and I am happy I could learn from her.”
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