Kai Blankenship

Source: https://berlin.stanford.edu/student-life/student-testimonials/kai-blankenship Parent: https://berlin.stanford.edu

Kai Blankenship (she/her) - Stanford in Berlin

Major: Science, Technology, and Society

Minor: German Studies

College year while abroad: Fall 2024

About the photo: Lollapalooza Berlin at the Olympic Stadium!

Contact

Email: kaiblank@stanford.edu or click here to schedule an appointment.

Q&As

Why did you choose to study in Berlin?

Berlin offered an opportunity to explore and learn in a vibrant city that has a rich history that has led to one of the most unique cultures and communities in the world. As a proclaimed history buff, Berlin seemed like the perfect place to dive deeper into some of the most important historical events of the last century, what I did not realize is how the city has transformed from it's history into a diverse, individualistic, and creative epicentre. The Berlin study program offers up close learning into this transformed city through classes like Berlin Von Ort and the Krupp Program, making it an easy decision to go to Berlin.

How did studying away support your academic growth?

Studying away in Berlin led me to adopt a new minor in German Studies. The professors and staff at the Berlin Center are dedicated and excited about teaching which made it easier to truly learn and understand German language and culture. The wide range of classes that the Berlin Center offers also allows for much more freedom in choosing classes and learning about relevant topics that are of interest. My favourite class, outside of the German language course, was our Art and Architecture class as it allowed me to explore Berlin in a more meaningful manner.

What did you learn about yourself during your study away experience, especially through any challenges or major cultural adjustments?

In Berlin, I was on a strict budget due to being self-funded and also travelling before and after the program. I was worried that not having unlimited money to spend during my time away would make my experience worse. Berlin however is the best city to be on a budget! There are a range of free museums, activities, parks, and spatis that allow the city to be just as amazing without spending too much money. Berlin taught me how to save, spend, and enjoy responsibly.

Briefly describe a typical day and your favorite part of daily life in your program location.

One of my favorite parts of everyday was waking up! While in Berlin I signed up for Urban Sports which is a platform that allows me to take 1 fitness class a day at over 2000+ studios in Berlin for only $60 a month. To start my morning, I would go to a yoga or spin class and get ready in their facilties. After a shower, I would stop by at the cafe by my homestay for a Berliner (the best morning pastry!) and a coffee to go. Navigating the train system in Berlin is easy, and after a quick 30 minute train ride and 10 minute walk I arrived at the center. My first class of the day was German from 9:30-11:30am. I had the best German teacher, Diana, and she made me fall in love with learning the language. After class, I would normally walk over to the FU campus to have lunch with some of my German friends who went there. My go to was Oliv'chen Kaffehaus for their daily soups! After lunch I would head into the city to our meeting point for Art and Architecture, which was held in different parts of Berlin every week. For the next two hours we would explore and learn about Berlin's most notable artist and architects, getting to go into all the museums and buildings for free. After class, I would head to Markethalle Neun or Holzmarkt 25 for the best bite to eat and a Radler! For the rest of the night I would either meet up at a spati with some of my German friends or head out to a club or bar with fellow Stanford students.

If applicable, how did participating in an internship, volunteership or experiential-based project help you grow professionally? What specific skills did you gain?

Participating in the Krupp internship program allowed me to explore more of Berlin and dive deeper into topics that I cared about. My internship at adelphi, a sustainability think tank, was my dream internship! I got to have hands on work on circular economy research and development for the German Ministry and the EU. One of the best parts about being an intern in Berlin is that they give you important tasks that actually are implemented. Here, I developed my data analytical and graphing skills to create items used in final reports. Working at adelphi allowed me to invision what living in Berlin long term could be like, and encouraged me to apply to a masters program in Berlin. My company introduced me to the masters program and even aided me in networking!

What was the most essential item you took with you on the program?

The most essential item that I took to Berlin was nothing! A fun fact is that I came to Berlin with just a backpack with two outfits! Berlin's fashion scene and especially the flea markets and thrift stores are so amazing, I knew I wanted to find unique pieces that would forever remind me of Berlin. With a budget of $250 I was able to thrift a whole new wardrobe and develop my style in Berlin.

What advice would you give students who are considering studying away?

Smile, say Hallo, and dive deep into German culture. Despite not knowing any German when going to Berlin, I tried everyday to at least connect, throw in a wie geht's, and learn about German culture. Because of my efforts, I was able to grow a German friend group that made me fall in love with Berlin even more.