Cologne by the Rhine

This past June, I spent a week in Cologne, Germany, for an event that gave me an incredible opportunity to present a project from my university in front of a huge audience, including a number of high-profile investors from big companies. It was a week packed with growth, self-discovery, and exploration – though, by the end, I realized that Cologne might not be the German city for me, despite its popularity with so many others. Let me walk you through my experience!

The main reason for my trip was to attend a prestigious event where I was given the chance to present a project that my university team and I had been working on. It was an honor to stand on that stage and share our hard work with an audience that included not only fellow students and academics but also investors and executives from some of the top companies in the industry. Seeing their interest in our project and hearing their feedback was surreal. I could feel the nerves building up, but as I started to speak, I found my rhythm. This experience taught me how to channel my anxiety into positive energy. By the time I wrapped up, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment. Presenting in front of such a distinguished audience was a crazy moment for me, one that helped me build confidence and overcome my fears.

Beyond the presentation, the event offered a fantastic chance to connect with new people. I met students from other universities, professors with incredible insights, and even some of the investors who shared invaluable feedback on our project. These interactions were as enriching as the presentation itself, giving me a broader perspective on the industry and inspiring me to think about new directions for our project.

In between event sessions and networking, I had some time to explore Cologne. It’s a vibrant, bustling city that’s well-loved by locals and tourists alike for its history, lively neighborhoods, and, of course, the magnificent Cologne Cathedral. Wandering around the city, I got a real sense of its unique blend of historic charm and modern culture. I visited the famous cathedral, strolled along the Rhine River, and took in the views from the Hohenzollern Bridge, where countless “love locks” added a touch of romance to the scenery. Cologne has a lively arts scene, so I checked out some local galleries and wandered through Ehrenfeld, one of the city’s most creative districts, with street art and indie boutiques on every corner.

One of my favorite discoveries in Cologne was a café/bar called Funkhaus. This spot has a cozy, retro vibe, making it perfect for unwinding with a coffee or a cocktail after a day full of networking and exploring. I spent a few relaxing afternoons there, talking to my friends and having a good time.

While Cologne has so much to offer, I’ll admit it hasn’t quite won me over. This wasn’t my first trip to Cologne, and after visiting a few times, I’ve realized that the city simply doesn’t resonate with me in the way other German cities do. There’s a certain charm to it, and I understand why it’s so beloved by many – especially for its energetic vibe and warm, welcoming locals – but it doesn’t capture my heart the way places like Munich or Berlin do. It’s a city full of life, but I’ve found that other places in Germany feel more like “home” to me. My week in Cologne was a blend of professional growth and personal exploration. Presenting our project in front of that crowd was a defining moment, pushing me to step outside my comfort zone and giving me a sense of confidence I hadn’t felt before. It was a valuable reminder of the importance of facing fears and embracing new challenges. While Cologne might not be my top choice among German cities, this trip will always be a memorable chapter in my journey – one filled with personal triumphs, new connections, and valuable lessons.