This is a collection of items that were most essential and meaningful to me during my time in Germany. Each object carries its own story and precious memories. Just as we need our daily meals to sustain us, these items were my vital nourishment. I placed them on plates to symbolize that these pieces of my life were as significant as the food I eat every day. Bon appétit!
Item descriptions below.
Buldak Ramen
A taste of Korea. It’s always been a favorite, but in Germany, where spicy food is rare, it’s my ultimate dopamine boost. I don’t feel safe unless I have a hoard of these at home.
Visa Card
The Visa Saga. It haunted me before and even after arriving in Germany. My Gmail is now a battleground of “Important” emails, all from the Foreigners’ Office in Schwäbisch Gmünd.
Passport
My lifeline. Before I got my visa, this was my only ID. It’s my most prized possession. I catch myself double and triple-checking my bag just to make sure it’s still there.
Umbrella
The Reluctant Essential. I’m not usually an umbrella person, but with this fickle weather, it’s always tucked in my bag. Whether it’s snow or a sudden shower, it’s there. Sometimes, it feels like an extension of my own arm.
Immune
My Secret Weapon. I save these for the most grueling travel days. I only take them when I desperately need an energy boost to play hard. On normal school days, I’d rather just embrace the daze.
House Key
A foreign ritual. Coming from Korea where digital locks are the norm, this felt so strange. I’m terrified that losing it would leave me stranded in this unfamiliar land, so I obsessively check my hand before the door clicks shut. Luckily, my favorite “Glasses-Mandu” keychain makes it a breeze to find in my bag.
Gemini & Phone
More than just a semester. They are a part of my exchange life—actually, they’re everything. Since I’m still learning German, Gemini has been my dearest friend, interpreting every machine, system, and email, and guiding me on exactly what to do.
Film Camera
A gift of vision. My best friend gave this to me before I left for Germany, wishing for me to capture the world beautifully. I’ve carried it through Spain, Portugal, Berlin, Paris, and London, snapping away—though I’m still a novice. I’m not sure if the photos will turn out well, but I guess that uncertainty is the true charm of film.
Biotin
The Hair Rescue. I was beyond shocked by how much hair I was losing after moving to Germany. It’s still falling out, so this is the one vitamin I never skip. Grow, hair, grow!
